From Garden to Table: How to Make Nutritious Microgreen Pesto and Spreads
How to Make Microgreen Pesto and Other Tasty Spreads
Microgreens are a great addition to any dish, but have you ever thought about incorporating them into pesto and spreads? In this blog post, we'll show you how to make microgreen pesto and other tasty spreads that are both nutritious and delicious. Plus, we'll share tips on growing your own microgreens at home!
Microgreen Pesto Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of microgreens (such as basil, arugula, or kale)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup of nuts (such as pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash the microgreens thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Add the microgreens, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to a food processor or blender.
- Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped.
- With the food processor or blender running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Tips:
- Experiment with different combinations of microgreens to create unique pesto flavors.
- Use toasted nuts for extra flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavor of the pesto.
Other Tasty Spreads with Microgreens
Microgreen Hummus Ingredients:
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup of tahini
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1/2 cup of microgreens (such as cilantro, parsley, or mint)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic to a food processor or blender.
- Pulse the ingredients until they are smooth and creamy.
- Add the microgreens and pulse again until they are finely chopped and well-incorporated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Microgreen Avocado Spread Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup of microgreens (such as watercress, spinach, or kale)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (such as cilantro, parsley, or basil)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mash the avocados in a bowl until they are smooth and creamy.
- Add the microgreens, fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice to the bowl and stir until well-incorporated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Tips:
- Use microgreens as a substitute for other leafy greens in your favorite spread recipes.
- Add different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.
Tips for Growing Your Own Microgreens
Growing your own microgreens is easy and rewarding. Here are some tips to get started:
- Choose seeds that are suitable for microgreens, such as radish, broccoli, or alfalfa.
- Plant the seeds in a shallow tray or container filled with soil or a growing medium.
- Water the seeds regularly and keep them in a well-lit area.
- Harvest the microgreens when they are 1-2 inches tall by snipping them off at the base.
- Store the microgreens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
Microgreens are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pesto and spreads. Making your own microgreen pesto and spreads is not only easy, but it also allows you to experiment with different flavors and combinations.
In addition to the recipes, we also provided tips on growing your own microgreens at home. Growing your own microgreens is a great way to ensure that you have a fresh supply of these nutrient-packed greens on hand.
Learn how to grow microgreens with a Jute Gardens Microgreen Kit.
So, whether you're looking for a new way to use microgreens or want to try your hand at growing them yourself, we hope this blog post has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and add microgreens to your next meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are microgreens? A: Microgreens are young plants that are harvested when they are just a few inches tall. They are often used as a garnish or ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.
Q: Why use microgreens in pesto and spreads? A: Microgreens are packed with nutrients, including vitamins and antioxidants, and can add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to pesto and spreads. Plus, they are easy to grow at home and can be a cost-effective way to add a nutritious ingredient to your meals.
Q: Can I use any type of microgreens in pesto and spreads? A: Yes, you can use a variety of microgreens in pesto and spreads, including basil, arugula, kale, cilantro, and mint. Experiment with different combinations to find the flavors you like best.
Q: Can I make microgreen pesto and spreads ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make microgreen pesto and spreads ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent oxidation.
Q: Can I use microgreens that I bought at the grocery store for pesto and spreads? A: Yes, you can use microgreens that you bought at the grocery store for pesto and spreads. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before using them.
Q: What are some other ways to use microgreens? A: Microgreens can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, soups, and stir-fries. They can also be used as a garnish for cocktails or smoothie bowls.
Q: How do I grow my own microgreens? A: To grow your own microgreens, you will need seeds, a shallow tray or container, soil or a growing medium, and a well-lit area. Plant the seeds in the soil or growing medium, water them regularly, and harvest them when they are 1-2 inches tall.
