Resources

“Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens” by Xiao et al. (2012): 

This study analyzed the nutrient content of various microgreens and found that they contain significantly higher levels of vitamins and carotenoids compared to their mature counterparts, demonstrating their potential as a nutrient-dense food source.

“Evaluation of Phenolic Profiles and Antioxidant Activities of Various Seedling Sprouts” by Sun et al. (2013):

 The research investigated the antioxidant activities and phenolic profiles of different microgreens and found that they exhibited potent antioxidant properties, which may help protect against oxidative stress-related diseases.

“Comparison of the Mineral Composition of Edible Parts of Brassica oleracea L. Var. acephala, Brassica rapa L. subsp. silvestris and Raphanus sativus L.” by Velíšek et al. (2013):

 This study examined the mineral composition of microgreens and found that they are a rich source of essential minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, which play vital roles in maintaining various physiological functions.

“Potential of Nutrient-Rich Microgreens to Alleviate Hidden Hunger in Developing Countries” by Khoshgoftarmanesh et al. (2017):

 The study focused on the nutrient content of microgreens and highlighted their potential in addressing micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries. It emphasized the importance of incorporating microgreens into diets to combat hidden hunger.

“Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Six Microgreens Against Pathogenic Strains of Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes” by Samarakoon et al. (2018):

 This research explored the antimicrobial properties of selected microgreens and found that they exhibited antibacterial activity against common foodborne pathogens, suggesting their potential in food safety and preservation.

How to Use Microgreens

Salads: Add a vibrant and nutritious touch to your salads by tossing microgreens into the mix. They provide a fresh and delicate flavor that complements a variety of salad ingredients. Sprinkle microgreens on top or mix them in for an extra burst of color and texture.

Sandwiches and Wraps: Elevate the taste and visual appeal of your sandwiches and wraps by layering in microgreens. They add a crisp and refreshing element, providing a burst of flavor and enhancing the overall texture of your handheld creations.

Smoothie Boost: Give your morning smoothie a nutritional boost by incorporating microgreens. Blend them along with your favorite fruits, vegetables, and other smoothie ingredients to add a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your beverage.

Garnishes: Use microgreens as a beautiful and edible garnish to enhance the presentation of your dishes. Sprinkle them over soups, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats to add a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.

Stir-fries and Sautéed Dishes: Just before serving, toss a handful of microgreens into your stir-fries or sautéed dishes. They will wilt slightly and add a pleasant crunch and subtle flavor to your cooked meals.

Pizza Toppings: Take your homemade pizzas to the next level by scattering microgreens on top after baking. The heat of the pizza will gently wilt the greens, adding a vibrant touch and a delightful freshness to each slice.

Omelets and Scrambled Eggs: Sprinkle microgreens onto your omelets or scrambled eggs for a burst of color and a nutritional boost. They provide a lovely contrast to the eggs and infuse your breakfast with added freshness.

Soups and Stews: Just before serving, sprinkle microgreens on top of your hot soups or stews. Their tender leaves will add a burst of flavor and contribute to the visual appeal of your comforting bowl of goodness.

Homemade Pesto: Get creative with your pesto recipes by incorporating microgreens along with the traditional basil. Their unique flavors can add an interesting twist to your pesto sauce, making it even more flavorful and nutritious.

Microgreens are delicate and best enjoyed fresh. Add them to your dishes just before serving to preserve their texture, flavor, and nutritional value. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and finding new ways to incorporate microgreens into your favorite recipes!