Kia ora fellow foodies and green-thumb friends! 🌱 Today, we're diving headfirst into a tiny yet mighty part of our food world that you might just have overlooked: the wonderful world of microgreens. These tiny plants are not just a chef's fancy garnish; they're nutritional powerhouses and flavour bombs that can transform ordinary meals into gourmet experiences. Let's unravel the mystery of microgreens and discover how to harness their potential in our everyday cooking.

What are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young vegetable greens, harvested just after the first leaves have developed. They are the seedlings of edible herbs and vegetables like radish, beet, coriander, and broccoli. Despite their small size, microgreens pack a nutritional punch, often containing higher nutrient levels than more mature vegetable greens. This makes them an excellent addition to any diet.

Why Include Microgreens in Your Diet?

Microgreens are more than just a green trend. They're a unique blend of taste, nutrition, and aesthetics:

~Nutritional Value: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, microgreens are a healthful choice. Studies suggest they can contain up to 40 times higher levels of vital nutrients than their mature counterparts.
~Flavour Profile: Each microgreen variety has a distinctive flavour. They range from mild to spicy, tangy to sweet, adding depth and character to dishes.
~Versatility in Cooking: They can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches, soups to smoothies, and more.

Culinary Uses of Microgreens

Microgreens can be much more than a garnish. Here are three recipes to get you started on your microgreen adventure:

Recipe 1: Zesty Microgreen Salad

Ingredients:

• A mix of microgreens (such as brassica, kale, and mustard greens)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Sliced cucumber
• Avocado, cubed
• Your choice of nuts or seeds
• Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

1. Gently toss the microgreens, tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Garnish with nuts or seeds for an added crunch.

This salad is a fresh, vibrant start to explore the flavors of different microgreens.

Recipe 2: Microgreen Omelette

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• A handful of microgreens (such as spinach and kale)
• Grated cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat butter or oil in a pan and pour in the eggs.
3. Once the eggs begin to set, sprinkle microgreens and grated cheese on one half.
4. Fold the omelette over and cook to your liking.

This simple omelette elevates the humble breakfast to a nutrient-rich meal.

Recipe 3: Microgreen Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mixed microgreens (like basil, arugula, and pea shoots)
• 1/3 cup of pine nuts or almonds
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Your choice of pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend the microgreens, nuts, and garlic until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
4. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Mix the pesto with the cooked pasta and serve. Garnish with additional microgreens for a fresh touch.

Caring for Microgreens

Once you've brought your microgreens home, you'll find they've been pre-washed and dried for extended freshness. However, it's always a good practice to give them another rinse before use. An efficient way to wash them is by using a salad spinner. If you don't have one, a colander will do just fine. Ensure the greens are thoroughly dried to maintain their crispness. - you can do this by popping them on a handee towel or tea towel and turn them to get them as dry as possible. If you dont use them all, simply reseal the packet and store them in your fridge's vegetable compartment to keep them fresh for your next culinary creation. 

The Wrap Up: Add them to everything

Microgreens offer a unique opportunity to add both nutrition and gourmet flair to your meals. They exemplify the adage, "Great things often come in small packages." By incorporating microgreens into your diet, you're not just enjoying a range of flavours; you're also taking a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

As you embark on this green journey, remember that the world of microgreens is vast and varied. Each variety brings its own unique flavour and nutritional profile. Experimenting with microgreens can be an exciting culinary adventure, one that introduces new textures, tastes, and colours to your plate.

So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, consider giving these tiny greens a place in your kitchen. You might be surprised by how much vitality and taste these small sprouts can add to your daily meals.

Remember, good food is not just about satisfying hunger; it's about nourishing your body, tantalising your taste buds, and enjoying the art of cooking. Microgreens fit perfectly into this philosophy, blending health and flavour in each little leaf.

Happy cooking, everyone! May your meals be as nourishing as they are delicious. And the next time you see those little greens, you'll know they're not just for show; they're tiny titans, ready to elevate your dining experience.