Microgreens are small, nutrient-packed powerhouses that add vibrant flavors to any dish. From the mild sweetness of pea shoots to the spicy kick of radish microgreens, there’s a variety to suit every palate.
These tiny greens not only enhance the taste of your meals but also provide a wealth of health benefits, including high levels of vitamins and antioxidants.
Whether you’re looking to boost your nutrition or experiment with new flavors, discovering the best-tasting microgreens can elevate your cooking. In this guide, we explore the top microgreens that promise deliciousness and nutrition in every bite.
1. Broccoli Microgreens: The Nutrient Powerhouse
Flavor Profile
Broccoli microgreens have a mild, slightly peppery flavor that offers a subtle bite without overwhelming dishes. They have a taste similar to their adult counterpart, but the flavor is much more delicate and fresh. Their mildness makes them incredibly versatile, allowing them to blend seamlessly into a variety of dishes without overpowering other ingredients.
Health Benefits
Broccoli microgreens are widely considered to be one of the most nutrient-dense microgreens available. They pack a punch with 40 times the nutrients of full-grown broccoli. These tiny greens are especially rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C, which are essential for immune support, skin health, and bone strength. The presence of sulforaphane, a potent phytochemical, further boosts their reputation for promoting detoxification and fighting inflammation. Some even consider these microgreens to have cancer-preventing properties, adding to their appeal as a superfood.
Uses in Cooking
Broccoli microgreens are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. You can use them in salads, sandwiches, soups, or even as a substitute for lettuce in burgers. Their mild flavor allows them to be easily incorporated into almost any meal, making them an essential addition to a healthy diet. Whether used fresh or as part of a salad mix, they bring a light, refreshing flavor that complements a wide range of dishes.
2. Pea Shoots: Sweet and Crunchy Goodness
Flavor Profile
Pea shoots are sweet, crisp, and crunchy, with a flavor that mirrors the sweetness of fresh peas. These microgreens offer a burst of flavor that is gentle yet distinct, making them an excellent choice for anyone who loves the taste of peas but with a fresh twist. Their natural sweetness makes them a perfect choice for people who prefer a more delicate flavor in their dishes.
Health Benefits
Pea shoots are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like iron and calcium. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining healthy skin, a strong immune system, and promoting bone health. Pea shoots also contain antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress. Their nutrient profile and sweet flavor make them a go-to microgreen for anyone looking to boost their nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Uses in Cooking
These microgreens are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Their sweetness pairs perfectly with salads, stir-fries, or even as a topping for pasta or sandwiches. Pea shoots can also be tossed into smoothies or used as a garnish for a fresh, green crunch. They grow quickly, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to start growing microgreens at home.
3. Radish Microgreens: A Spicy Kick
Flavor Profile
Radish microgreens have a spicy, peppery flavor that adds a punch to any dish. While they pack some heat, it’s not overwhelming—it’s a gentle spiciness that blends well with other greens. The flavor of these microgreens closely mirrors the taste of mature radishes, but with a milder, more balanced intensity. If you love a bit of spice but don’t want it to overpower your meal, radish microgreens are a perfect choice.
Health Benefits
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, radish microgreens help support a healthy immune system and promote skin health. They are also known for their digestive benefits, as they contain compounds that aid in digestion and reduce bloating. Additionally, these microgreens are a good source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and a balanced gut microbiome.
Uses in Cooking
Radish microgreens are incredibly versatile, especially when you want to add a touch of spice without overwhelming your meal. They work wonderfully in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish for soups and tacos. The mild heat of radish microgreens pairs well with other ingredients, offering a balance of fresh, peppery flavor that enhances the overall dish.
4. Sunflower Microgreens: Nutty and Nutrient-Packed
Flavor Profile
Sunflower microgreens are known for their mild, nutty flavor, with a slight sweetness that makes them one of the most popular microgreens. Their flavor is akin to sunflower seeds, which adds a comforting and familiar taste to any dish. These microgreens provide a crunchy texture that is both satisfying and delicious, making them a top choice for those who enjoy nutty flavors in their meals.
Health Benefits
Sunflower microgreens are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like A, C, and E. These nutrients contribute to healthy skin, a strong immune system, and overall well-being. They are also high in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which support heart health and fight oxidative stress. The high protein content makes sunflower microgreens a fantastic addition to plant-based diets.
Uses in Cooking
Sunflower microgreens are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Their nutty flavor makes them a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or even as a snack on their own. They can also be used in wraps, smoothies, or as a garnish on a variety of dishes, from pasta to grain bowls. These microgreens are easy to grow and maintain, making them a favorite for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
5. Shiso (Perilla) Microgreens: Bold and Herbaceous
Flavor Profile
Shiso microgreens, also known as perilla, have a spicy, herbaceous flavor that’s pungent and aromatic. The taste is quite bold, with a tingly sensation on the tongue that’s similar to oregano or thyme. The flavor is intense, making it a great choice for those who enjoy adding a punch of herbaceous flavor to their dishes. It’s a unique microgreen with a strong, almost medicinal flavor that can add a layer of complexity to your meals.
Health Benefits
Shiso microgreens are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help protect the body from free radical damage. They also contain beneficial essential oils that support digestive health and promote circulation. These microgreens are widely recognized for their immune-boosting properties, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
Uses in Cooking
Due to their bold flavor, shiso microgreens are perfect for adding a unique twist to dishes that feature herbs. They pair well with salads, pasta, pizza, or even sushi. Shiso microgreens are a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine, where their aromatic flavor can elevate dishes. They’re also a great way to infuse your meals with an exciting, flavorful kick.
6. Kohlrabi Microgreens: Mild and Crisp
Flavor Profile
Kohlrabi microgreens offer a mild, slightly sweet flavor with subtle hints of radish. The taste is fresh, crisp, and gentle, making it an ideal addition to any dish where you want a light, refreshing crunch. Unlike the often pungent taste of some microgreens, kohlrabi’s flavor is delicate, with just enough character to make a difference without overpowering other ingredients.
Health Benefits
Kohlrabi microgreens are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help support the immune system, promote skin health, and aid in digestion. These microgreens are low in calories but high in essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a healthy, nutrient-rich element to their meals. The fiber content supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Uses in Cooking
Kohlrabi microgreens are perfect for adding a light, fresh element to salads or smoothies. Their subtle sweetness pairs well with fruit-based salads, creating a balance of flavors. You can also use them as a garnish for soups or sandwiches. Their mild taste makes them incredibly versatile, and they add a nice contrast when mixed with stronger-tasting microgreens.
7. Borage Microgreens: Refreshing and Melon-Like
Flavor Profile
Borage microgreens are often described as having a mild, cucumber-like flavor with a refreshing melon-like taste. The greens are juicy, with a subtle bitterness that complements their sweetness. This refreshing, hydrating flavor profile makes borage microgreens a fantastic choice for those looking to add a cool, crisp touch to their meals. It’s almost like biting into a fresh melon, offering a summer-like vibe to any dish.
Health Benefits
Borage microgreens are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which are essential for heart health and fighting inflammation. They also contain vitamin C and calcium, which contribute to skin health and bone strength. The high water content of borage microgreens can help keep you hydrated, making them a refreshing addition to your diet, especially during hot weather.
Uses in Cooking
Borage microgreens are best used in salads, smoothies, or as a garnish for light, fresh dishes. Their refreshing flavor pairs well with fruits, making them ideal for fruit salads or as a topping for yogurt and desserts. You can also use them as a garnish for cocktails, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to summer drinks.
8. Garlic Chive Microgreens: Bold and Garlic-Like
Flavor Profile
Garlic chive microgreens have a strong, aromatic garlic flavor with a hint of onion. Their flavor is robust yet not overwhelming, offering the essence of garlic without the pungency of raw cloves. This mild garlic flavor makes them an excellent addition to any dish that benefits from a savory, herby kick.
Health Benefits
These microgreens are rich in allicin, a compound found in garlic that has been shown to have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic chives are also good for immune health and digestion, helping to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, they contain vitamin C and fiber, which support overall health and wellness.
Uses in Cooking
Garlic chive microgreens can be used in a variety of savory dishes. They add a mild garlic flavor to salads, soups, and sandwiches. You can sprinkle them over roasted vegetables, scrambled eggs, or use them as a topping for pizza. They’re also delicious when incorporated into dips or dressings, offering a fresh twist on traditional garlic-based recipes.
9. Amaranth Microgreens: Bright and Colorful
Flavor Profile
Amaranth microgreens have a very mild, almost earthy flavor, making them a subtle addition to meals. The taste isn’t particularly strong, but the vibrant red color of the microgreens adds a beautiful visual appeal. While they don’t contribute much flavor on their own, they add a pleasant texture and color to dishes, making them an excellent choice for garnish.
Health Benefits
Amaranth microgreens are rich in protein, iron, and calcium, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to boost their nutrient intake. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress in the body. These microgreens support bone health, blood circulation, and overall well-being.
Uses in Cooking
Amaranth microgreens are primarily used for their vibrant color rather than flavor. They make an excellent addition to salads, grain bowls, or as a garnish for a variety of dishes. Their bold red hue brings a pop of color to any meal, enhancing both its visual appeal and nutritional value. You can also mix them with other microgreens for added texture and nutrients.
10. Lemon Balm Microgreens: Sweet and Refreshing
Flavor Profile
Lemon balm microgreens have a sweet, lemony flavor that is refreshing and slightly tangy. Their citrus-like taste makes them a popular choice for those looking to add a light, sweet note to their dishes. The flavor is mild but noticeable, providing a pleasant contrast to heavier, more savory ingredients.
Health Benefits
Lemon balm microgreens are known for their mood-boosting properties. They contain compounds that help reduce anxiety and improve digestion. These microgreens are also rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health and promoting skin elasticity. Lemon balm is often used in herbal medicine for its calming effects, making it a great addition to a wellness-focused diet.
Uses in Cooking
Lemon balm microgreens are best used in desserts, drinks, or sweet dishes. They pair wonderfully with cakes, ice creams, and fruit salads. You can also use them in smoothies or as a garnish for citrus-based drinks like lemonade or tea. Their refreshing lemon flavor adds a natural sweetness that complements a variety of sweet recipes.