5 Exotic Microgreen Varieties You Never Knew About

Microgreens are small greens that are harvested just after they sprout. They are tiny powerhouses of nutrition that bring both flavor and health benefits to your table. While you may already know common varieties like basil and spinach, there s an entire universe of exotic microgreens just waiting for you to explore.

In this article, you ll discover five unique varieties, including the strikingly vibrant purple kohlrabi and the zesty red amaranth. You ll also find out how to incorporate these nutritious greens into your meals, grow them effortlessly at home, and unleash your creativity in the kitchen.

Jump in and transform your cooking with these amazing microgreens!

2. Purple Kohlrabi

Purple kohlrabi is a visually captivating microgreen that elevates your culinary creations with its vibrant color. It offers a delightful burst of flavor and a wealth of health benefits.

Its unique flavor profile melds a subtle sweetness with a peppery kick, making it an ideal addition to salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries. Packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, it bolsters your overall wellness while boosting the nutritional value of your meals.

You can easily grow this resilient vegetable. It thrives in well-drained soil with moderate sunlight and benefits from consistent watering. Keep an eye out for pesky intruders and ensure proper spacing to promote air circulation. This will allow your purple kohlrabi to flourish and reach its full culinary potential.

3. Red Amaranth

Red amaranth microgreens are not just a feast for the eyes; they re brimming with antioxidants and essential nutrients. This makes them a delightful and healthful addition to any meal.

Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, these microgreens support your immune function and promote radiant skin. Their impressive nutrient profile is a boon for anyone mindful of their health, making them a savvy choice for the health-conscious.

In your kitchen, red amaranth can take your salads, soups, and sandwiches to the next level. They introduce a satisfying crunch and a hint of peppery flavor. Their versatility means you can incorporate them into a wide range of dishes, whether as a garnish or a starring ingredient, enhancing both nutrition and taste.

This tiny powerhouse beautifies your plates and nourishes your body, making every bite a step towards better health.

4. Tatsoi

Tatsoi is a leafy microgreen that brings a unique flavor profile to your table. It blends the sweetness of spinach with a hint of mustard, making it an exciting addition to salads and garnishes that will surely impress.

Tatsoi is flavorful and it s also a nutritional powerhouse. It is brimming with vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. Whether you re a chef or a home cook, you ll appreciate how tatsoi can elevate a variety of dishes from stir-fries to sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with flavors like sesame, ginger, and garlic, enhancing your culinary creations.

If you’re considering growing your own tatsoi, you’ll be pleased to know it thrives in cooler temperatures and can be harvested in just a few weeks. This makes it a perfect choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners alike.

Whether you use it fresh in a vibrant salad or saut it lightly as a side dish, incorporating tatsoi into your meals adds both nutrition and a delightful, nuanced taste that elevates any dining experience.

In conclusion, exploring these exotic microgreens not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the nutritional value of your meals. For a deeper understanding, refer to our quick guide to common microgreen varieties. Try growing them yourself or experiment with new recipes to fully enjoy their benefits!

5. Red Veined Sorrel

Red veined sorrel microgreens offer a delightful tart and peppery flavor that can elevate your dishes. They are an exceptional choice for adding a unique taste and vibrant look to your meals. Whether used in salads or as an ingredient in cosmetics, you’ll love their versatility!

These microgreens don t just bring a splash of color; they also deliver a significant nutritional boost. Packed with vitamins and minerals, they are rich in vitamin C to support your immune system and iron to promote healthy blood.

Try adding them to your salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish for soups and fish dishes. They can transform everyday meals into something truly special!

Cultivating red veined sorrel at home is easy. It flourishes in well-drained soil and prefers a bit of partial shade. When it s time to harvest, simply snip the outer leaves and allow the center to keep growing for a plentiful supply.

Imagine incorporating the fresh leaves into a zesty vinaigrette or pairing them with creamy cheeses for an exquisite starter that will impress your guests!

6. Red Cabbage

Red cabbage microgreens are a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants. They deliver a satisfying crunch and a hint of peppery zest that can elevate any dish.

These petite greens not only enhance your meals with their striking purple color, but they also boast an impressive nutrient profile. They are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are vital for your immune system and bone health.

In your kitchen, these microgreens effortlessly complement salads, sandwiches, and wraps. They can also serve as an eye-catching garnish for soups and grain bowls. For those just starting out, exploring the best microgreen varieties for beginners can enhance your culinary creations. Simply sprinkle a handful on a fresh salad, blend them into your smoothies, or use them as a flavorful topping for tacos to enjoy their unique taste and numerous health benefits!

7. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm microgreens are celebrated for their invigorating citrus aroma and flavor. They provide not just a delightful culinary experience but also a wealth of health benefits!

This delightful herb enhances everything from salads to marinades and desserts with a vibrant zest. Beyond cooking, lemon balm offers valuable health advantages, such as anxiety relief and digestive support. This makes it a popular ingredient in herbal teas.

If you re considering growing this aromatic plant indoors, ensure it receives ample sunlight and is planted in well-drained soil to promote robust growth. With the increasing demand for fresh, home-grown herbs, lemon balm truly shines as a cherished option for cooking enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals!

8. Shiso

Shiso microgreens are renowned for their unique, aromatic flavor that beautifully blends minty, anise, and basil notes. They are a sought-after ingredient in Asian cuisine.

These petite greens not only enhance the taste of your dishes but also offer a treasure trove of health benefits. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support your overall well-being.

If you’re venturing into home gardening, mastering the best practices for cultivating shiso microgreens is essential. This includes selecting the right soil, ensuring they receive adequate light, and maintaining consistent moisture levels.

With just a bit of attention and care, you can easily grow these vibrant greens on your windowsill or countertop. Fresh flavor and nutrients will always be just a snip away!

9. Mizuna

Mizuna microgreens offer a delightful mild peppery flavor. Their crisp texture makes them perfect for salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.

Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, these nutrient-dense greens not only enhance the taste of your meals but also deliver significant health benefits. They help bolster immunity and support bone health. You might find chefs sprinkling them over entrees or blending them into smoothies to add a nutritious kick.

If you have an interest in gardening, you’ll be pleased to know that growing mizuna is relatively straightforward. It thrives in cooler weather and adapts well to small spaces, whether in backyard gardens or on your windowsills.

By ensuring regular watering and providing well-drained soil, you can achieve a successful harvest and enjoy fresh, homegrown microgreens throughout the year.

10. Cilantro

Cilantro microgreens are full of flavor and nutrients. They add a fresh, zesty kick to many dishes.

These vibrant greens are your secret weapon for infusing salads, soups, and tacos with a burst of flavor, making them an incredibly versatile ingredient in your cooking list. Beyond enhancing taste, they come packed with numerous health benefits, including high antioxidant content and potential anti-inflammatory properties.

If you’re considering growing your own cilantro microgreens, focus on providing the right lighting and moisture levels to encourage robust growth. Harvesting them at just the right moment when they reach about two inches in height will ensure they retain their freshness and deliver an exceptional flavor experience.

What Are the Health Benefits of Microgreens?

Microgreens are often hailed as superfoods, and for good reason. Their impressive concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants offers a wealth of health benefits that can elevate your overall well-being.

These petite greens think broccoli, kale, and radish are brimming with essential nutrients vital for maintaining optimal health. Research suggests that microgreens can pack up to 40 times more nutrients than their fully grown counterparts, making them a formidable ally in your diet. For example, must-try microgreen varieties for salads like broccoli microgreens are rich in sulforaphane, a compound that may help fight cancer and reduce inflammation.

By incorporating these nutrient-dense greens into your meals—whether tossed in salads, blended into smoothies, or used as vibrant garnishes—you can significantly enhance your intake of essential vitamins and antioxidants. To explore different options, check out the microgreen varieties. This simple addition could lead to improved health outcomes and a more resilient immune system.

How Can You Incorporate Microgreens into Your Diet?

Incorporating microgreens into your diet can be both simple and rewarding, presenting a quick opportunity to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your meals.

These tiny greens are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, effortlessly elevating even the most ordinary dishes. Imagine sprinkling a handful of vibrant microgreens over a fresh salad; it not only boosts visual appeal but also adds a delightful crunch.

When crafting your sandwiches, think about layering them in place of traditional lettuce for an exciting twist that tantalizes the taste buds.

Even your smoothies can transform into nutrient powerhouses with just a small handful blended in, complementing the fruits while introducing a unique flavor profile. Using microgreens as garnishes on soups or entrees not only beautifies the dish but also enhances its nutritional benefits, making them a culinary staple that s truly worth exploring.

Have you ever tried growing your own microgreens? Start experimenting with microgreens today for a tasty and nutritious boost!

What Are the Different Ways to Grow Microgreens at Home?

Growing microgreens at home is not only simple but also a sustainable practice that allows you to cultivate nutritious greens in just a few days, regardless of your available space or experience level.

Whether you have a sprawling garden or merely a small windowsill, it’s exciting to grow your own fresh greens! This activity produces fresh produce and instills a sense of accomplishment. To get started, selecting the right soil is crucial. Choose a high-quality potting mix that drains well to avoid too much water in the soil.

When it comes to watering, aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Using a spray bottle can help you manage moisture levels effectively. Adequate light is another essential element; natural sunlight and grow lights can effectively support these tiny plants.

If you’re just beginning, it’s wise to experiment with varieties like radishes, basil, and sunflower. For a delicious twist, consider adding top 5 microgreens for smoothies. These options tend to be more forgiving and germinate quickly, ensuring your first journey into the world of microgreens is enjoyable and rewarding.

Are There Any Safety Concerns with Consuming Microgreens?

While microgreens are typically regarded as safe and healthy, it’s important to be aware of certain safety concerns when consuming them to fully enjoy their health benefits.

Contamination can be a significant risk during the growth or handling of these delicate plants. Practice safe handling methods: wash your hands thoroughly before touching microgreens and keep your surfaces and utensils impeccably clean.

When sourcing these nutrient-rich varieties, choose reputable vendors who prioritize quality and sustainability. For an exciting twist, consider exploring unique microgreens to elevate your dishes. Proper storage is equally vital; keeping your microgreens in a cool, dark place helps maintain their freshness and minimizes the risk of spoilage. This allows you to safely enjoy these delightful additions to your meals.

What Are the Most Popular Microgreen Varieties?

The surge in popularity of microgreens has opened up a treasure trove of choices, each bringing unique flavors, textures, and health benefits to cater to your culinary desires.

Among these colorful contenders, pea shoots shine with their sweet, crisp taste, making them an ideal choice for salads or as a delightful garnish. Sunflower microgreens, with their nutty flavor and hearty texture, elevate sandwiches or wraps. Then there are beet greens, which introduce a subtle earthiness, often featured in stir-fries or as a vibrant boost in smoothies. For those looking to explore more options, check out this guide for beginners on microgreen varieties.

These tiny powerhouses not only catch the eye but are also packed with nutrients, offering antioxidants and essential vitamins that contribute to your overall well-being. Whether you want to enhance a meal’s visual appeal or enrich its nutritional value, how to grow your favorite microgreen varieties delivers the versatility needed to elevate any culinary masterpiece.

How Can Microgreens Be Used in Cooking and Garnishing?

Microgreens offer a canvas for your culinary creativity, bringing vibrant colors, unique textures, and rich flavors that enhance the presentation and taste of your dishes.

These tiny greens, from spicy arugula to sweet basil and zesty radish, can transform a simple salad into a culinary masterpiece with their delightful notes. For microgreen varieties for culinary professionals, in soups, they work wonders as a refreshing garnish, adding depth to flavors while elevating visual appeal.

In entrees, microgreens introduce an unexpected crunch and a burst of freshness that beautifully complements heartier dishes, such as grilled meats or creamy pastas.

By artfully sprinkling them atop your creations, you can craft stunning presentations that entice diners to dive into a spectrum of flavors, seamlessly blending with everything from tangy citrus to earthy roots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are microgreens?

Microgreens are young, edible plants harvested when they are only a few inches tall. They are packed with nutrients and often used as a garnish or added to salads for extra flavor and texture.

Try growing your own microgreens today and taste the difference!

What are some exotic microgreen varieties?

Exotic microgreens include purple basil, wasabi arugula, red shiso, purple kohlrabi, and amaranth. These varieties offer unique flavors and vibrant colors that enhance dishes.

What are the health benefits of microgreens?

Microgreens are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They also provide fiber and may boost your immune system.

Regularly consuming them can help lower the risk of chronic diseases.

How do I grow microgreens at home?

To grow microgreens at home, gather seeds, a shallow container, potting soil, and water. Fill the container with soil, sprinkle seeds on top, and lightly cover them.

Keep the soil moist and place the container in a sunny location. Within a week or two, your microgreens will be ready to harvest.

How do I use exotic microgreen varieties in cooking?

Use exotic microgreens as a garnish or add them to sandwiches and wraps. They also enhance salads and can be blended into smoothies or juices for added nutrition.

Where can I find exotic microgreen varieties?

Look for exotic microgreens at specialty grocery stores and farmers’ markets. You can also find them online or grow them at home with seed starter kits.