Microgreens are tiny, nutrient-rich greens grown from the seeds of vegetables, herbs, and other plants. They are typically harvested when just a few inches tall and used as a garnish or added to salads for flavour and nutrition.
In recent years, microgreens have become increasingly popular in the culinary world, appearing on menus at fine-dining restaurants and casual eateries. Microgreens are a type of vegetable harvested when the plant is just a few inches tall and has only a few leaves. They are often used as a garnish or added to salads for a pop of colour, but they are much more than just a pretty addition to your plate. Microgreens pack a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition.
One of the main benefits of microgreens is their high nutrient content. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and are often richer in nutrients than their fully-grown counterparts. For example, red cabbage microgreens have been found to have 40 times more vitamin E and six times more vitamin C than fully-grown red cabbage.
In addition to their high nutrient content, microgreens are a great source of fibre and protein, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. They are low in calories and have a high water content, making them a great choice for those looking to add more nutrients to their diet without increasing their caloric intake.
Microgreens are also high in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Some microgreens, such as broccoli and kale, are particularly high in antioxidants and nutrients that have been shown to support heart health. Consuming these microgreens may help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.
This blog tries to explore 10 different ways in which you can engage and interact with micro greens and make them a part of your meals!
Add them to salads
Microgreens are an excellent addition to salads, adding a pop of colour and flavour. They are a healthy alternative to heavier salad toppings like croutons and bacon bits. Additionally, microgreens are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a nutrient-dense addition to your salad. To add depth of flavour and texture to your salad, consider mixing different types of microgreens.
Use them as a garnish
Microgreens are a great finishing touch to any dish, adding colour and flavour. They are an excellent garnish for soups, stews, and other dishes. Adding a handful of microgreens to your plate provides visual appeal and additional nutritional benefits.
Mix them into smoothies
Adding a handful of microgreens to your morning smoothie is an easy way to boost your nutrient intake. Microgreens add a mild, fresh flavour and contain vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent way to sneak extra nutrients into your diet without compromising taste.
Top your sandwiches
Instead of using traditional lettuce, add a handful of microgreens to your sandwich. Microgreens add a fresh, crisp texture and flavor to your sandwich. They are an excellent alternative to heavier sandwich toppings like cheese and meat, and they are packed with nutrients.
Use them as a pizza topping
Microgreens make a great pizza topping. They add a fresh, herbaceous flavour to your pizza and are a healthy alternative to traditional pizza toppings like pepperoni and sausage. Additionally, microgreens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your pizza.
Mix them into hummus
Adding microgreens to your favourite hummus recipe is an easy way to boost the flavour and nutrient content. Microgreens add a fresh, herbaceous flavour that pairs well with the creamy texture of hummus. Additionally, microgreens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your hummus.
Use them in stir-fries
Microgreens are a great addition to stir-fries. They add a fresh, crisp texture and flavour to your stir-fried vegetables and meats. Additionally, microgreens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your stir-fry.
Add them to tacos
Microgreens make a great taco topping. They add a fresh, herbaceous flavour and a pop of colour to your tacos. Additionally, microgreens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your tacos.
Use them as a sandwich wrap
Instead of traditional bread, try wrapping your sandwich fillings in a handful of microgreens. Microgreens add a fresh, crisp texture to your sandwich and are a healthy alternative to carb-heavy bread. Additionally, microgreens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your sandwich.
Given their flavour and visual appeal, it's no surprise that microgreens have become popular for chefs looking to add something special to their menus. They can be used in various dishes, from appetisers to main course dishes, making them a chef’s favourite.
You do not need to be a professional chef to use microgreens in your diet; we’ve covered you with various recipes and products!
( Have a recipe of your own? Share it with the OMG Family here!)