Many microgreens are edible at the microgreens stage of growth. This is the period of time after a vegetable has sprouted and developed its cotyledon and true leaves. Because microgreens are developed from the energy and nutrients stored in the seed, they often offer a greater nutrient density than their mature counterparts. In addition to nutritional differences, there can also be some taste differences. Usually, microgreens have a more pungent flavor than the mature vegetable harvest.

We understand some people are hesitant to try new microgreens if they aren’t sure what the flavor will be or if they will like it. After polling the fans of Mike VanDuzee of @KeeponGrowin’ we created a microgreen sample starter pack that includes 12 varieties of microgreen seeds that interest growers of various experience levels. The sampler includes 1 oz of broccoli, purple radish, spicy salad mix, beet, nasturtium, cilantro, garden cress, sunflower, pak choi, shiso, orach, and pea. Try something new with this special 12 Variety Microgreen Sampler.

Microgreens can show off a variety of flavors. The most common include sweet, savory, bitter, zesty, spicy, earthy, and nutty. Most microgreens will include more than one of these flavors making for unique flavors when paired with your everyday foods. For ideas on how to use microgreens in your day-to-day cooking, check out our “How to Use Microgreens and Sprouts” article.

Sweet

Most people new to trying microgreens tend to like the sweet types the best at first. They tend to be more mild in taste and can be used in many ways. Kids will likely be more open to eating these types, although they may respond well to other flavors as well.

• Amaranth
• Beet
• Bok Choy
• Fava Bean
• Kohlrabi
• Lettuce
• Parsley
• Pea
• Radish
• Sunflower

Bitter

While these microgreens have more of a bitter taste, they are still widely liked. Broccoli has a delightful texture that pairs well with salads, sandwiches, and burgers. While wheatgrass is grown with the same technique as other microgreens, it should only be consumed as a juice by people. Pets may benefit from directly chewing on the grass.

• Broccoli
• Cress
• Kale
• Wheatgrass

Sour or Tangy

These microgreens are known to bring more of a unique flavor to the plate. If growing cilantro microgreens, be sure to split the seeds by gently rolling over them with a rollin pin or lightly crushing them for quicker germination.

• Buckwheat
• Cilantro
• Sorrel

Spicy

These microgreens are known for their more bold, spicy, and peppery flavors that will add a flare to your meals. While each of them have this flavor kick, they vary in strength.

• Arugula
• Basil
• Mustard
• Radish
• Shiso
• Nasturtium

Learn more from Mike VanDuzee on YouTube @KeeponGrowin

"Growing some of your own food is empowering, it is a basic necessity that most of us depend on someone else for. Take control of your life and gain the knowledge that will make you a little more self sufficient. It's an awesome feeling and is even better having a virtual salad bar at your fingertips throughout the year!"

Other Microgreens Resources:

• Best Trays and Containers for Growing Microgreens
• How to Use Microgreens and Sprouts
• Why are Sprouts and Microgreens Healthy?
• How to Grow Microgreens