Microgreens - Why the Hype?
We love our salads with fresh, crunchy romaine lettuce or soft leaves of spinach. However, a new green is taking over the salad scene: Microgreens. But what exactly are microgreens? Microgreens gained popularity in California during the 1980s but made a comeback during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Now, you cannot go into a restaurant without being offered a few microgreens on your dish. Still skeptical? Below we describe what microgreens are, why they are amazing, and how you can include them in your meals.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are baby plants that are older than a sprout but younger than a green. Greens enter the “microgreen” stage between 7-21 days after germination. Microgreens can be bought either as a seed and grown on your windowsill (how pretty!) or they can be bought whole and kept alive and growing until you decide to use them which ensures extra freshness. Because microgreens are so young, they pack a flavorful and nutrient-dense punch while adding color to your dish. Microgreens are, essentially, your favorite vegetables and beans while they are still baby plants.
Microgreen Nutritional Benefits
Microgreens contain the same vitamins as their adult counterparts. However, the nutrients are far more concentrated. Basically, if you have a burger topped with spinach leaves and a burger topped with microgreen spinach, you will be consuming at least twice as many vitamins, iron and antioxidants when you eat the burger topped with microgreens. Microgreens are a major gamechanger to health outcomes in America and worldwide. Although obesity rates are increasing, many Americans are nutrient deficient! Furthermore, microgreens are super easy to plant and maintain, which means there is no excuse not to have microgreens near every window of your home.
How to Use Microgreens
In a salad with fresh orange slices
On avocado toast
In your favorite sandwich
In an omelet or scrambled eggs
As a garnish
As a pizza topping
In soup
On top of pasta or rice
In your favorite curry or dal
chopped up in samosas, empanadas or chicken pockets
Or just plain!
We hope you take advantage of these hearty, healthy and powerful greens in your next meal. Share with us your favorite recipe or how your baby plants are growing. If you are a parent, growing microgreens is an incredible STEM opportunity that helps your children engage, learn and grow with healthy eating habits. Not many vegetables live up to the hype, but microgreens definitely deserve a spot on your plate.
