Microgreens are vegetables that have been sliced and mixed with other plants for a more uniform appearance. Usually they have a small leafy shape, which makes them seem bigger than they really are.
Many people love these ‘artificial’ vegetables, because they can be enjoyed for as little as thirty minutes before they wilt, just like the produce they mimic. They also make for an impressive centerpiece for holiday meals, because they can be sliced, dried, and kept in airtight containers.
Creating your own microgreens is easy. They can be found in stores where fresh fruit and vegetables are sold, including farmer’s markets. Find one that looks best to you, like beets, carrots, and broccoli.
The trick is in mixing them up so that they look more like fresh veggies, while using an organic way to keep them safe and fresh for as long as possible. This can be done easily by using a piece of cheesecloth, which is a very thin piece of cloth.
To make organic microgreens, simply use cheesecloth to wrap them and tie them at the edges with a rubber band. Then place them in a plastic bag with another plastic bag and seal them. Allow them to sit in a dark and cool place for a few days.
Microgreens have different benefits, depending on the different varieties. Lettuce is rich in iron and will help build strong bones. Broccoli is rich in calcium and has a refreshing flavor.
Spinach is a great source of vitamin K, which helps regulate bone density. And cauliflower has beta carotene, which helps lower LDL cholesterol and will help with the prevention of certain types of cancer.
Another great health benefit from eating microgreens is their high level of water content. Because of this, they retain the most water of any vegetable, and are very low in calories. This is due to the way they contain so many water-soluble vitamins and minerals.
One of the greatest benefits of microgreens is that they are perfect for adding flavor to dishes like Chinese broccoli, cabbages, or mustard seeds. The flavor blends well with all of these vegetables, so you can flavor them however you wish. Of course, you should avoid adding them to your meals directly, unless you have some sort of sour cream or salad dressing already on hand.
If you don’t want to use them in food item, then you can also throw them into smoothies, as some experts recommend. Another tip is to sprinkle them on top of whole grain breads for a crunchy bite.
Another great way to enjoy microgreens is by putting them on salads. Adding chopped microgreens and other greens will give your salad a nice zing, without the fuss of worrying about how it will be digested.
In summary, microgreens can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on the variety and what vegetables you like. Enjoy your microgreens and stay healthy!