Early version. Nutrient values from USDA FoodData Central; dietitian review in progress. Not medical advice.

Arugula vs asparagus: which is healthier?

They are about equally nutrient-dense: arugula scores 97/100 and asparagus 96/100, so pick by your goal. Both can be part of a healthy diet; the table below shows where each one is stronger. Source: USDA FoodData Central.

Arugula

97/100Excellent nutrient density

25 kcal per 100 g. 1 cup: 20 g

Asparagus

96/100Excellent nutrient density

20 kcal per 100 g. 5 spears: 80 g

Which to pick for your goal

  • Fewer caloriesAsparagus25 vs 20 kcal per 100 g
  • More proteinAbout even2.6 vs 2.2 g per 100 g
  • More fiberAsparagus1.6 vs 2.1 g per 100 g
  • Less sugarAbout even2 vs 1.9 g per 100 g
  • More potassiumArugula369 vs 202 mg per 100 g
  • Less saturated fatAbout even<0.1 vs <0.1 g per 100 g

Nutrition side by side

Per 100 g and per typical portion. Bold marks the better value for each row.
NutrientArugula, 100 gAsparagus, 100 gArugula, 20 gAsparagus, 80 g
Calories25 kcal20 kcal5 kcal16 kcal
Protein2.6 g2.2 g0.5 g1.8 g
Carbohydrates3.6 g3.9 g0.7 g3.1 g
Sugars2 g1.9 g0.4 g1.5 g
Fiber1.6 g2.1 g0.3 g1.7 g
Fat0.7 g0.1 g0.1 g<0.1 g
Saturated fat<0.1 g<0.1 g<0.1 g<0.1 g
Vitamin C15 mg5.6 mg3 mg4.5 mg
Vitamin A119 µg38 µg24 µg30 µg
Potassium369 mg202 mg74 mg162 mg
Iron1.5 mg2.1 mg0.3 mg1.7 mg
Calcium160 mg24 mg32 mg19 mg
Magnesium47 mg14 mg9.4 mg11 mg
Sodium27 mg2 mg5.4 mg1.6 mg

Last updated . Scores use the HowHealthyIs Score method.

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