1. 3 benefits of eating microgreens daily

Why Microgreens Should Be a Part of Your Daily Diet

Microgreens are tiny, nutrient-dense greens that pack a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition (and flavour!). What makes them a great addition to your daily meals?

1) Nutrient Dense

Microgreens have a high nutrient content, they include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Let’s have a look at some specific examples of the nutrients found in microgreens:

  • Vitamin C: Red cabbage microgreens contain up to 6 times more vitamin C than mature cabbage.
  • Vitamin K: Broccoli microgreens can contain up to 10 times more vitamin K than mature broccoli.
  • Iron: Pea shoots and sunflower microgreens have been found to be particularly rich in iron.
  • Antioxidants: All microgreens are high in antioxidants, these help protect the body against free radical damage and inflammation. Antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
2) Versatile

Microgreens are very versatile, they can be used in a variety of dishes and make a great addition to most meals! We have yet to find a meal that microgreens don’t fit well with. One of our favourite recommendations is to make a green juice or smoothie for a refreshing drink. You can also add microgreens as a delicate garnish or add them to soups for extra flavour and nutrition.

3) Delicious

Your body won’t just benefit from the nutrient content of microgreens, your taste buds will also benefit from their flavour. Microgreens come in a variety of flavours, from sweet to spicy, and can add a depth of flavour to any dish. Our most popular microgreens include broccoli, pea shoots, green mustard, and sunflower.

2. What are Microgreens? Discovering the Nutritional Powerhouses

Microgreens have taken the culinary world by storm, adorning plates in restaurants, topping salads, and finding their way into smoothies. These tiny greens may be small in size, but they pack a mighty punch when it comes to nutrition and flavour. In this article, we will delve into the world of microgreens, answering key questions to help you understand their significance and why they are gaining popularity in the health-conscious community.

What is the Point of Microgreens?

Microgreens are not just a trendy garnish; they serve a critical purpose in the realm of nutrition. These miniature versions of familiar vegetables, herbs, and grains are harvested at an early stage of growth when they have developed their first true leaves. This young stage is when leafy greens are at their nutritional peak, brimming with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Photo by Matklubbentrondheim
What is a Microgreen?

Microgreens are the sprouted seedlings of various plants that are harvested after the cotyledon leaves have developed. The cotyledon leaves are the first set of leaves that emerge from the seed during germination. These early leaves are packed with nutrients as they provide the young plant with energy until it can establish roots and begin photosynthesis.

Micro Cilantro, Micro Red Radish, Micro Sunflower, Micro Green Mustard

 

Micro Cilantro, Micro Red Radish, Micro Sunflower, Micro Green Mustard
Are Microgreens Really Healthy?

Absolutely! Despite their small size, microgreens are nutritional powerhouses. Researchers have found that microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts. These tiny greens are especially rich in vitamins C, E, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron, zinc, and potassium. Additionally, they are a fantastic source of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body and protect against oxidative stress.

Are Microgreens Better for You than Vegetables?

While microgreens offer a concentrated dose of nutrients, it is essential to remember that they are not a replacement for a balanced diet of vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods. Incorporating a variety of vegetables and greens into your diet ensures that you receive a broad spectrum of nutrients and benefits. However, adding microgreens to your meals can be an excellent way to boost the nutritional value and add a burst of flavour and colour.

 

Farm to table microgreens

3. How to use Baby Greens

  1. Fresh Salads: Baby greens are the stars of fresh salads, contributing their tender and crisp textures. Toss them with other favorite salad ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious meal. The combination of baby arugula and baby kale with a sprinkle of feta cheese makes for a delightful and balanced salad.
  2. Flavorful Wraps: Upgrade your wraps with a handful of baby greens to infuse them with an added burst of flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a veggie wrap with hummus or a protein-packed chicken wrap, the addition of baby greens creates a satisfying balance of taste and texture.
  3. Nutrient-Rich Smoothies: Take your smoothies to the next level by blending in a handful of baby greens. Baby kale and baby spinach are particularly well-suited for smoothies due to their mild taste and nutritional richness. Pair them with fruits like bananas, berries, and mango for a refreshing and nourishing drink.
  4. Sautéed Delights: Baby greens are excellent candidates for quick sautés. Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan and lightly sauté baby spinach or baby arugula with garlic and a pinch of salt. The result is a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements any main course.
  5. Gourmet Garnishes: Elevate the presentation and taste of your dishes by using baby greens as garnishes. Their delicate and attractive appearance makes them perfect adornments for soups, omelets, quiches, and even sushi rolls.
  6. Colorful Pesto: Create a vibrant and nutrient-packed pesto by blending baby kale or baby arugula with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Use this delectable green sauce as a pasta topping, spread for sandwiches, or a dip for fresh vegetables.
Baby Arugula and Baby Kale with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta, sunflower seeds, salad dressing.

 

Baby Arugula and Baby Kale with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta, sunflower seeds, salad dressing.

By experimenting with different combinations and cooking methods, you can unleash the full potential of baby greens in your culinary repertoire. These tiny wonders are not only pleasing to the eye but also contribute to a well-rounded and health-conscious diet.

4. What is the benefits of eating microgreens?

Microgreens are young, edible plants that are harvested at an early stage of growth, usually when they have developed their first set of true leaves. They are known for their vibrant colors, concentrated flavors, and a variety of potential health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of eating microgreens:

  1. Nutrient Density: Microgreens are incredibly nutrient-dense, containing higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. Since they are harvested at an early stage, these nutrients are often more concentrated in the small leaves.

  2. Antioxidant Rich: Microgreens are packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  3. Vitamins and Minerals: Microgreens can be rich sources of essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin E. They also contain important minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.

  4. Digestibility: Due to their young age, microgreens tend to be more easily digestible than fully grown plants. This can be especially beneficial for people with digestive issues or those who have difficulty absorbing nutrients.

  5. Flavor and Texture: Microgreens are known for their intense flavors and unique textures. They can add depth and complexity to dishes, making them popular choices for garnishes, salads, and various culinary creations.

  6. Aesthetics and Presentation: Microgreens are visually appealing with their vibrant colors and delicate leaves. They can enhance the presentation of dishes and add a touch of elegance to both home-cooked meals and professional chef creations.

  7. Low in Calories: Microgreens are generally low in calories, making them a great option for people looking to manage their weight or consume a nutrient-rich diet without excessive caloric intake.

  8. Cultivation Convenience: Microgreens can be grown indoors, making them accessible to people who don’t have outdoor garden space. They can be cultivated on windowsills, countertops, or in small containers.

  9. Variety of Flavors: There is a wide variety of microgreens available, each with its own distinct flavor profile. This allows for culinary experimentation and creativity in incorporating different flavors into dishes.

  10. Potential Health Benefits: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that certain microgreens may have specific health benefits. For instance, broccoli microgreens have been found to contain higher levels of sulforaphane, a compound associated with anti-cancer properties.

It’s important to note that while microgreens offer various potential benefits, they should be part of a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Their nutrient density and unique flavors make them a valuable addition to meals, but they shouldn’t replace the consumption of a diverse range of other foods.

5. Why are microgreens good for you? 

Microgreens are young, edible plants that are harvested at an early stage of growth, typically when they have their first true leaves. These tiny greens are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. Here are several reasons why microgreens are considered good for you:

  1. Nutrient Density: Microgreens are incredibly nutrient-dense, meaning they contain a concentrated amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are known to have higher nutrient levels per gram compared to their fully mature counterparts. Different varieties of microgreens offer a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and calcium.

  2. Antioxidants: Microgreens are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants are essential for maintaining overall health and supporting your immune system.

  3. Low in Calories: Microgreens are typically low in calories, making them a great addition to your diet if you’re looking to manage your calorie intake. They can add flavor, texture, and nutrients to your meals without significantly increasing your calorie consumption.

  4. Flavor and Texture: Microgreens come in various flavors, ranging from spicy to mild, and they can add a burst of taste and texture to your dishes. Their vibrant colors and unique tastes make them an appealing addition to salads, sandwiches, and other recipes.

  5. Easy to Grow: Microgreens are relatively easy to grow at home, even if you have limited gardening space. Growing your microgreens allows you to have a fresh supply of these nutritious greens readily available.

  6. Versatility: Microgreens can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, wraps, soups, and smoothies. Their versatility makes it easy to incorporate them into your meals.

  7. Freshness: When you grow microgreens at home or purchase them from local sources, you can enjoy them at their peak freshness. This ensures that you get the maximum nutritional benefits from each serving.

  8. Fiber: Microgreens contain dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy gut. Fiber is also important for regulating blood sugar levels and promoting a feeling of fullness, which can assist with weight management.

  9. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Microgreens can be grown in small spaces and have a shorter growth cycle compared to fully mature plants. This makes them a sustainable and eco-friendly food option with a lower environmental footprint.

It’s worth noting that while microgreens offer numerous health benefits, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your diet is key to obtaining all the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

6. Benefits of Dry Microgreen Powder. 

 

Dried microgreens powder offers several benefits, making it a convenient and versatile option for adding the nutritional goodness of microgreens to your diet. Here are some of the advantages:

  1. Nutrient Density: Microgreens are known for their high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Drying microgreens preserves these nutrients, allowing you to easily incorporate them into your meals.

  2. Extended Shelf Life: Dried microgreens have a longer shelf life compared to fresh microgreens. They can be stored for an extended period without wilting or spoiling.

  3. Convenient Storage and Portability: Dried microgreens are lightweight and take up less space than fresh ones. This makes them easy to store and transport, making it simple to add a nutritional boost to your dishes wherever you go.

  4. Year-Round Availability: Fresh microgreens may not be available year-round or in all regions. Dried microgreens provide a consistent source of nutrients regardless of the season or location.

  5. Versatility: Dried microgreens can be used in a variety of culinary applications. You can sprinkle them on salads, soups, sandwiches, smoothies, or even incorporate them into sauces and dips.

  6. Flavor Enhancement: Microgreens have a distinct and often intense flavor, and dried microgreens can impart this flavor to your dishes without the need for fresh greens. This can be especially useful for adding unique and vibrant flavors to your meals.

  7. Easy to Use: Dried microgreens powder is simple to use. You can easily measure and control the amount you add to your dishes, ensuring you get the desired nutritional benefits without any waste.

  8. Reduced Food Waste: Fresh microgreens have a shorter shelf life and can sometimes go to waste if not used promptly. Dried microgreens help reduce food waste, as they don’t spoil as quickly.

  9. Concentrated Phytonutrients: Drying microgreens can concentrate certain phytonutrients, making them even more potent in powdered form. This can provide an extra nutritional boost.

  10. Improved Digestibility: Some individuals may find that dried microgreens are easier to digest compared to the fresh version, as the drying process can break down certain compounds that might be harder to digest.

It’s important to note that while dried microgreens offer these benefits, they may not retain all the qualities of fresh microgreens, such as their texture and some heat-sensitive nutrients. As with any dietary supplement, it’s essential to use them as part of a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.