When it comes to healthy eating, there’s no denying that smoothies are a delicious and convenient way to get in some much-needed nutrients.
And if you’re looking to take your smoothies to the next level, incorporating microgreens is an excellent way to do so.
What are the best microgreens for smoothies though?
Not only do these tiny greens have a powerful nutritional punch, but they also add a fresh and vibrant flavor to your favorite blends.
However, with so many different types of microgreens available, it can be challenging to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the best microgreens for smoothies.
From peppery arugula to sweet and yummy carrot sprouts, we’ll highlight the top microgreens that will take your smoothies to the next level.
We’ll also share tips on how to grow and store microgreens, as well as delicious smoothie recipes that feature these nutritional powerhouses.
Whether you’re a smoothie aficionado or just getting started on your healthy eating journey, this post will show you some of the best microgreens for smoothies around!
Just What are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young plants that are harvested just a few weeks after germination when they’re only a few centimeters tall.
But don’t let their size fool you – these little guys pack a powerful punch of nutrition and flavor!
Microgreens come in a variety of colors and flavors, and they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
In fact, some studies suggest that they contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts!
Which Microgreen is Most Nutritious?
Microgreens are the superheroes of the plant world, packed with nutrients and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. But which microgreen is the most nutritious of them all? The answer may surprise you.
Broccoli microgreens are considered one of the most nutritious microgreens.
They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a powerhouse of health benefits. Including broccoli microgreens in your diet can provide a concentrated source of nutrients that support overall well-being.
Here is their complete nutritional profile per 100 grams:
Vitamins:
Vitamin A: 2500 IU
Vitamin C: 120 mg
Vitamin E: 2.8 mg
Vitamin K: 110 mcg
Folate (Vitamin B9): 73 mcg
Minerals:
Calcium: 35 mg
Iron: 0.9 mg
Magnesium: 24 mg
Potassium: 245 mg
Phosphorus: 66 mg
Amino Acids:
Protein: 2.1 g
Tryptophan: 16 mg
Threonine: 89 mg
Valine: 102 mg
Leucine: 168 mg
Isoleucine: 87 mg
Antioxidants:
Sulforaphane: Abundant, potential anti-cancer properties.
Fiber:
Dietary Fiber: 2.6 g
Other Nutrients:
Carbohydrates: 7.3 g
Total Fat: 0.4 g
Energy: 34 kcal
Enjoy the goodness of these tiny greens by adding them to salads, sandwiches, or smoothies for a nutritious boost!
Best Microgreens for Smoothies
1. Spinach Microgreens
Are you ready to take your smoothie game to the next level? You could try some spinach microgreens!
Not only do spinach microgreens add a boost of vitamins and minerals to your smoothie, but they also have a deliciously fresh and slightly sweet taste.
If you’re interested to know, Spinach microgreens are young, edible greens harvested at an early stage of growth from spinach seeds.
What’s nice about these particular greens is that they have delicate, tender leaves with a vibrant green color and a slightly milder taste compared to mature spinach.
They are an excellent addition to smoothies for both their nutrition and flavor.
The taste is often described as mild and slightly sweet taste with subtle earthy undertones.
When added to your smoothies, they will have a fresh and refreshing flavor, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering other ingredients.
Their tender leaves blend smoothly, making them a versatile choice for various smoothie combinations.
You can add them to your smoothie by using a generous handful (around 1/2 to 1 cup) of spinach microgreens to your smoothie ingredients.
Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
It may work well with yogurt and milk for a delicious and nutritious smoothie that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
2. Kale Microgreens
These miniature versions of kale are bursting with goodness and can be a fantastic addition to your daily blends.
Kale microgreens do add a pop to your smoothies with their mildly peppery flavor and slightly nutty taste.
Unlike mature kale, these tiny greens are tender and more delicate on the palate, making them a versatile addition to various dishes.
When you toss a handful of kale microgreens into your smoothie, you’re not just adding a pop of vibrant green color but also infusing it with an array of essential nutrients.
Kale microgreens are a powerhouse of vitamins, including A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and calcium. They also boast antioxidants that support your overall well-being.
To incorporate kale microgreens into your smoothies, simply wash them thoroughly, remove any tough stems, and add around 1/2 to 1 cup of these delightful greens to your blender along with your favorite smoothie ingredients.
Blend until smooth, and voilà – you have a nourishing and energizing concoction ready to fuel your day!
3. Broccoli Microgreens
Despite the myth that all kids hate broccoli, it’s quite the champion for smoothies.
And if you’re a parent who has kids who hate veggies, a delightful broccoli smoothie might work.
Beyond their nutty taste, broccoli microgreens are a treasure trove of essential nutrients.
They are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as important minerals like calcium and iron. Not to mention the potent antioxidant sulforaphane, which may have potential health benefits.
To whip up some quick broccoli microgreens, wash them thoroughly, pat them dry, and toss a generous handful (around 1/2 to 1 cup) into your blender along with your choice of fruits and other ingredients.
Blend until smooth, and there you have it – a nutrient-packed and delectable smoothie that will leave your taste buds singing with delight!
4. Arugula Microgreens
Do you like a kick to your smoothies? Arugula microgreens will do just that.
It’s also coupled with a subtle nutty undertone that will mellow it out a bit.
Arugula microgreens don’t hold out on nutrition either.
They offer a wealth of vitamins, including vitamin C for immunity and skin health, vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health, and vitamin A for vision and immune function.
They also provide folate for cell division and DNA synthesis.
In terms of minerals, arugula microgreens are rich in calcium for strong bones and teeth.
Not to forget their beneficial antioxidants and phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates, which may have potential health benefits.
5. Cilantro Microgreens
Cilantro microgreens, also known as coriander microgreens, boast an impressive array of health benefits in their petite package.
They have a concentrated source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health, vitamin A for vision and immune function, and vitamin C for boosting immunity.
Cilantro microgreens are also packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
You might also be surprised to know that they contain essential oils and phytonutrients that may support digestion and overall gut health.
But what about the taste?
That’s the most important thing, right?
They have a flavor that closely resembles mature cilantro, but with a milder and more delicate taste. They offer a fresh, citrusy, and slightly peppery sensation on the palate which is great if you like a bit of zest.
Ready to blend your smoothie?
Just gather your favorite smoothie ingredients like fruits, leafy greens, yogurt, or plant-based milk, and don’t forget your cilantro microgreens.
Give them a good wash and toss them into the blender with the rest of your ingredients.
Blend until creamy and smooth, adjusting the liquid as needed. Take a taste and add a splash of lemon juice or honey if you fancy a delightful twist.
Pour into your favorite glass, and there you have it – a delicious and nourishing cilantro microgreens smoothie!
6. Wheatgrass Microgreens
Wheatgrass microgreens are one of the healthiest microgreens around.
Don’t believe me?
They are brimming with an impressive array of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
They also have chlorophyll, often referred to as “green blood,” which has antioxidant properties that may help combat oxidative stress and support overall well-being.
Munching on wheatgrass microgreens is believed to aid in detoxification, boost the immune system, and promote healthy digestion.
They are pretty tasty too. It has a unique and mildly sweet taste, with a hint of earthiness and a subtle grassy or nutty flavor.
To use wheatgrass microgreens best in a smoothie, start by washing them thoroughly.
Add about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the microgreens to your blender along with your favorite fruits and liquid, such as bananas, berries, and almond milk. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Taste the smoothie and adjust the amount of wheatgrass microgreens to your liking, gradually increasing as you become more accustomed to their taste. For those who find the taste too strong, adding a touch of sweetness with honey or fruit juice is an option.
7. Carrot Microgreens
Carrot microgreens are another nice addition to your smoothies, infusing them with a burst of sweetness!
You might like them because they offer a more tender flavor compared to mature carrots.
Adding carrot microgreens to your smoothies not only enhances the taste but also provides a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals.
They are abundant in vitamin A, promoting healthy vision and skin, and vitamin K, which supports bone health and blood clotting.
They also contain antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, which may help combat oxidative stress and support overall well-being.
To enjoy carrot microgreens in your smoothie, simply wash them thoroughly and toss a generous handful into the blender with your favorite fruits and liquids
. Blend until smooth, and you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing and nutritious drink that will leave you feeling revitalized and nourished.
You can pair them with oranges, pineapples, or berries to add even more flavor to your drink.
8. Beet Microgreens
This is personally one of my faves and I just love pairing it with carrots!
They add a beautiful ruby-red color and a delightful earthy sweetness to your smoothies.
Not only do beet microgreens add a pop of color, but they are also a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C for immune support, iron for healthy blood, and potassium for heart health.
Blend those greens with apples, berries, or citrus fruits, for an invigorating sweetness.
Best Microgreens for Smoothies FAQ
What are the best microgreens for juice?
This depends on preference of course, but definitely the ones we mentioned earlier!
You can also try other microgreens such as:
- Alfalfa
- Pak Choi
- Mungbean
- Oregano
- Lentil
- Onion
- Fava Bean
- Rosemary
- Leek
- Collard
- Dandelion
- Garlic Chive
- Lemon Basil
- Lavender
Which microgreen tastes best?
The flavor of microgreens can be a topic of subjective discussion, as personal preferences may influence one’s perception.
However, pea shoot microgreens are widely regarded for their pleasing taste profile, characterized by mild sweetness and a subtle hint of peas. This has made them a popular choice for those seeking to add flavor to a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies.
Due to their tender texture and refreshing taste, these microgreens offer versatility and enjoyment to any meal.
Sunflower microgreens are another option that has garnered praise for their nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
These tiny greens provide a satisfying crunch and burst of taste, enhancing the overall dining experience. Incorporating sunflower microgreens into a dish can add depth and complexity to its flavor profile, making them a worthwhile addition to any culinary creation.
How to grow and store microgreens for later
To start, choose a well-lit spot or use a grow light to ensure your microgreens get enough sunlight.
Fill a shallow container with moist potting soil and evenly spread the seeds on top. Gently press them into the soil and cover with a thin layer of soil.
Keep the soil consistently moist, and within days, you’ll see sprouts! Once they reach the desired height, simply snip the microgreens above the soil line.
To store, gently wash and dry them, then store in an airtight container in the fridge.Yoi can also dehydrate them for later. Enjoy the freshness and flavor of homegrown microgreens anytime!
Try These Greens in Your Next Smoothie!
Microgreens can be a great addition to your daily smoothies. With their high nutrient content and unique flavors, they can add a boost of vitamins and minerals to your diet.
When choosing microgreens for your smoothies, it’s important to consider the taste and texture, as well as the nutritional benefits. Some of the best microgreens for smoothies include basil, kale, spinach, and broccoli.
Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect blend that fits your taste and health goals. Incorporating microgreens into your smoothie routine is an easy and delicious way to enhance your overall wellness.
