The Best Microgreens: Tiny Greens, Big Benefits (2024)

The best microgreens to eat pack a powerful punch of flavor and nutrients into a tiny package!

But with so many varieties available, which microgreens are the best to eat?

Here’s a look at some of the most popular options.

What are Microgreens?

Microgreens are mini versions of vegetables and herbs.

They are the young seedlings of vegetables and herbs harvested a few weeks after germination.

Because of this, they contain all the nutrients they need to grow into a mature plant.

More Nutrients Than Vegetables

Yes, you read that correctly. Microgreens are healthier than vegetables!

A 2018 literature review, The Science Behind Microgreens as an Exciting New Food for the 21st Century, claims these tiny greens contain up to 40 times the nutrients of a mature vegetable plant!

The Best Microgreens: Tiny Greens, Big Benefits (1)

What Are The Best Microgreens to Eat?

Most microgreens providepotassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, and antioxidants.

Pea, radish, and sunflower shoots also contain amino acids, the building blocks of protein.

Broccoli: The Healthiest Microgreen

When it comes to nutrition, broccoli is the best microgreen!

They have 550% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of antioxidants!

In addition, broccoli microgreens provide high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and potassium.

Top 10 Healthiest Microgreens

Below are your most nutrient-dense varieties.

  1. Broccoli
  2. Watercress
  3. Red Cabbage
  4. Kale
  5. Spinach
  6. Sunflower
  7. Pea
  8. Radish
  9. Beet
  10. Cilantro
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Microgreens in Your Diet

There are many ways to add these nutritious greens to your diet.

Microgreens add nutrition, texture, and flavor to your favorite foods!

5 Ways to Enjoy Microgreens

  1. Make a microgreens smoothie or protein shake.
  2. Garnish soup, pasta, and dips.
  3. Add to sandwiches and wraps for added texture.
  4. Jazz up your eggs or omelet.
  5. Toss them into salads.
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Suggested Microgreen Food Pairings

FoodFlavor ProfileSuggested Microgreen Pairing
BroccoliEarthySalad, stir-fry, pizza, eggs
WatercressPepperySoup, salad, sandwiches, fish
Red CabbageSweet,
slightly tangy
Coleslaw, burgers, tacos, sandwiches, roasted vegetables
KaleEarthy,
slightly bitter
Smoothies, stir-fries, stews
SpinachMild, earthyEggs, cheese, pasta, salads
Sunflower NuttyYogurt, roasted vegetables,
PeaSweetStir-fry, salads, garnishes
RadishPepperyAvocado toast, deviled eggs, sandwiches, salads
BeetEarthy,
slightly sweet
Hummus, smoothies, roasted vegetables, salads
CilantroFresh, citrusyTacos, burritos, guacamole, salsa, fish

Microgreens FAQs

1. Can you cook with microgreens?

It isn’t recommended to cook with microgreens.

Their flavor is more intense than vegetables. In addition, cooking decreases their nutrients.

2. Do you need to refrigerate microgreens?

Yes. It is best to store them in a sealed container or plastic bag to ensure freshness.

After you purchase microgreens, they last about 7-10 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze microgreens?

Absolutely! Microgreens can be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. Where can I purchase microgreens?

You can find microgreens at your local farmers’ market and health food stores.

Microgreen subscription services are also available. Growers typically deliver within a 20-25 mile radius to ensure freshness.

4. How much do microgreens cost?

Your direct cost will vary, however, on average microgreens cost anywhere from 3 to 6 dollars per ounce.

An ounce will provide about 4-5 servings.

5. Can I grow microgreens at home?

Yes! Microgreens are easy to grow at home. They do well in most climates and don’t require much space.

You can enjoy your homegrown microgreens from seed to harvest in just weeks.

Check out this book – A Complete Step-by-Step How to Beginners Guide for Growing Microgreens.

Takeaways

Microgreens are tiny, yet mighty in nutrition and flavor!

They also contain antioxidants that reduce inflammation and chronic disease.

These tiny seedlings are a great way to improve your diet and can be a good vegetable substitute for picky eaters.

Elevate your dishes by adding these miniature powerhouses to your plate!

Hungry for More?

Are you interested in more information on how your diet can support healthy aging?

Check out theAge-Defying Dietitian’s blog!

Sign up for ourNutrition for Healthy Aging Newsletterto get our latest content delivered directly to your inbox!

*Please note this blog post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

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Kathryn Piper RDN LD NBC-HWC

Kathryn is a Registered Dietitian and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is also certified through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Weight Management. She has 20+ years of nutrition experience working in a variety of healthcare settings. Her passion is to provide evidence-based nutrition information that supports vitality and longevity!

The Best Microgreens: Tiny Greens, Big Benefits (2024)

FAQs

Which microgreen has the most health benefits? ›

Broccoli: The Healthiest Microgreen

When it comes to nutrition, broccoli is the best microgreen!

What are the best microgreens for weight loss? ›

Microgreens such as red cabbage, cilantro, garnet amaranth, and green daikon radish are particularly helpful for weight management due to their high concentration of vitamins and carotenoids. These microgreens can boost nutrition while taking in minimal calories, aiding in weight loss efforts.

What microgreens are anti inflammatory? ›

Microgreens nutrition, broccoli, kale, and red cabbage, show very high concentrations of sulforaphane, scientifically shown to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.

Is it okay to eat microgreens every day? ›

Yes, you can eat microgreens every day as part of a balanced diet. However, it's important to remember that microgreens should not be the sole source of nutrients in your diet and should be consumed in addition to other fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

When should you not eat microgreens? ›

Note that sprouts and microgreens should not be eaten by pregnant or otherwise immunocompromised people, as the moist growing environment fosters the growth of bacteria that may originate on the seeds.

Is it cheaper to grow or buy microgreens? ›

Even if you buy trays, seeds, and grow lights, it's much more cost effective to grow your own microgreens at home than to buy trays at the store.

Which microgreens grow faster? ›

Plants that are epigeal grow relatively fast, especially in the first phase when the cotyledons unfold. Edible microgreens that grow the fastest include radish, mustard, arugula, amaranth, and broccoli. These varieties are known for their rapid growth cycle, often ready to harvest within 5 to 14 days.

What microgreens are good for your eyes? ›

Lutein is a powerful antioxidant found in spinach, broccoli, dandelion and cress microgreens. It may be especially beneficial for eye health in older adults. Studies show that lutein may improve or prevent age-related macular disease.

What microgreens are good for hormone balance? ›

Therefore, including brassicaceae microgreens in the diet is one of the best options to support hormone balance. Not only are they functional foods containing many phytonutrients, they are easily digested and pack a punch full of distinctive flavours.

What are Superfood microgreens? ›

These miniature versions of traditional herbs, vegetables, grains and grasses are known as microgreens. They are easy to grow – you plant them much like outdoor produce, but cultivate them indoors and harvest them after the first set of true leaves shows.

Which microgreen is good for hair growth? ›

Regarding hair health, microgreens like broccoli and sunflower stand out for their rich content of vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for hair growth and strength.

What is the number one vegetable for inflammation? ›

Broccoli

Here's why. When you work out hard, your body produces inflammatory cytokines that do a number on your muscles (hello, tired, achy muscles!). Turns out, eating broccoli after a workout could nip that process in the bud.

What microgreens are good for your immune system? ›

Microgreens such as amaranth, arugula, basil, beet, cauliflower, cress, dill, kale, lettuce, pea, salad, sunflower, and wheatgrass can act as super security guards to your immune system.

What is the most nutritious way to grow microgreens? ›

Opt for organic and non-GMO seeds to ensure the highest quality and nutritional value of your microgreens. Organic seeds are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilisers, which means they have a lower environmental impact and are less likely to contain harmful residues.

Which microgreen has the highest iron? ›

Iron deficiency is common and the leading cause of anemia worldwide. Many microgreens, including lettuce and those in the Brassicaceae family, are rich in iron. But studies show that fenugreek microgreens have the highest levels of iron.

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