What Do Microgreens Taste Like and What Can You Do with Them?
Microgreens have started gaining popularity in recent years. These tiny greens pack an impressive punch of flavor, nutrients, and versatility. If you’re looking to elevate your meals in a fun way, microgreens are an excellent addition.
Our microgreen selection is grown by Itty Bitty Micro Farm here in Central Illinois, and their farm started from a love of eating and cooking with microgreens because they’re so versatile.
If you’ve been wondering what microgreens taste like and what you can make with them, keep reading to learn what microgreens are, the benefits they offer, and how you can use specific varieties to enhance your dishes!
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are harvested at an early stage of growth, just after the first leaves (cotyledons) develop. They are typically about 1–3 inches tall and come in a wide range of varieties, including herbs, vegetables, and legumes.
Microgreens differ from sprouts because they are grown in soil or a soil substitute and exposed to sunlight, which enhances their flavor, color, and nutrient content. Sprouts, on the other hand, are grown in water and harvested earlier.
Nutritional Benefits of Microgreens
These tiny greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, often containing nutrient levels several times higher than the mature plants. These are some of the top nutritional benefits of microgreens:
Arugula: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and potassium.
Broccoli: Contains sulforaphane, a compound linked to cancer prevention, as well as vitamins C and K.
Radish: Rich in vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
Red Cabbage: A great source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Sweet Pea: High in protein and vitamins A and C, making it both nutritious and filling.
Kale: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron.
What Do Microgreens Taste Like?
Microgreens have different flavors and work well in a variety of dishes. These are some of our favorites:
1. Arugula
Flavor: Peppery and slightly nutty.
Best Uses: Salads, pizzas, egg dishes, or as a garnish for pasta.
Nutritional Highlights: High in vitamins A and C, calcium, and potassium.
2. Broccoli
Flavor: Mild and slightly earthy.
Best Uses: Smoothies, wraps, soups, or as a salad base.
Nutritional Highlights: Packed with sulforaphane, which supports detoxification and immune health.
3. Radish
Flavor: Spicy and crisp.
Best Uses: Tacos, sushi rolls, or as a topping for avocado toast.
Nutritional Highlights: Rich in vitamin C and potassium, with a bold flavor that adds excitement to dishes.
4. Red Cabbage
Flavor: Mildly sweet with a hint of bitterness.
Best Uses: Soups, grain bowls, and slaws.
Nutritional Highlights: High in anthocyanins, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
5. Sweet Pea
Flavor: Mildly sweet and fresh.
Best Uses: Salads, stir-fries, or as a garnish for risotto.
Nutritional Highlights: Excellent source of plant-based protein and vitamins A and C.
6. Kale
Flavor: Mild and earthy.
Best Uses: Smoothies, sandwiches, and as a salad base.
Nutritional Highlights: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, and a great source of calcium and iron.
If you’re interested in experiencing what microgreens taste like, we sell a variety of these (plus some microgreen mixes) at our online shop.
How to Cook with Microgreens
Microgreens are more than just a garnish—they can transform dishes with their unique flavors. Here’s how you can use microgreens in some different meals:
Salads
Add a handful of microgreens to your salads for a unique flavor and texture. Combine varieties like arugula and radish microgreens for a peppery kick or sweet pea microgreens for a touch of sweetness.Sandwiches and Wraps
Replace lettuce with microgreens in sandwiches and wraps to enhance the taste and add a nutrient boost. Kale and broccoli microgreens work particularly well for this.Smoothies and Juices
Blend kale or broccoli microgreens into your smoothies for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals without overpowering the flavor.Soups and Stews
Sprinkle microgreens like red cabbage or radish over soups and stews as a garnish for a pop of color and a mild crunch.Egg Dishes
Use arugula or sweet pea microgreens to top scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas for a fresh, vibrant twist.Tacos and Burritos
Add radish or red cabbage microgreens to tacos and burritos for a zesty flavor that complements spicy or savory fillings.
Purchasing Our Organic Microgreens
Microgreens aren’t just a culinary trend—they’re a practical, delicious, and nutritious way to elevate your meals. If you’re interested in seeing what microgreens taste like, we have a variety of microgreens you can choose from.
At The Farms of Illinois, our microgreens are grown with care using sustainable and organic practices. We believe in providing our community with fresh, locally grown food that supports health and well-being.
Shop online and have it delivered to your doorstep in Central Illinois.