Made popular by fine dining restaurants, microgreens are a great visual addition to almost any dish. The delicate little greens are basically the seedlings or earliest stages of edible vegetables and herbs. Similar to sprouts, they are grown specifically to be cultivated in the first few days or weeks of growth.
Do not be fooled by their size, the tender morsels are packed with big flavors and lots of nutrients. “Micros” are an easy way to enhance and elevate the appearance and taste of your hors d'oeuvres, appetizers, entrees, or even dessert!
No longer are they just something to behold at Michelin-star restaurants, micros are becoming increasingly common and easier to find at grocery stores and farmers markets. I typically utilize them as garnish or dressed with a light vinaigrette to make a unique salad experience. When selecting how to use them, I would usually pair like or contrasting vegetable microgreens with fully grown veggies or replace regular fresh herbs with their micro counterparts. They are an especially great addition for food photos!
Can’t seem to find any near you? Small kits are available for you to easily grow your own little greens at home in as little as six days! Some of my favorites are micro wasabi and purple shiso, great for garnishing and adding a pop to my sushi and crudo, but you can get just about any herb or vegetable flavor microgreen.
Easily impress your friends or family with this fun and delicious ingredient. If you are local to the Chicago area, check out the Lincoln Square Farmers Market this season, where you can find microgreens, fresh vegetables, proteins, and live cooking demonstrations from our chefs at The Chopping Block!
Arctic Char with Crème Fraiche, Herbs and Microgreen mix
Salmon Belly Tamaki with Scallion and Micro Wasabi
Spicy Tuna Gunkan with Micro Wasabi
Salmon Nigri with Assorted Micros
If you want to learn how to make sushi on your own, don't miss our popular Sushi Workshop coming up on Saturday, May 11 at 6pm at Lincoln Square. And if you've already taken that class and mastered the basics, the next step in your sushi journey is Next Level Sushi Workshop which is happening this Saturday, April 20 at 6pm. In this class, you will learn how to make more intricate maki rolls and hand rolls. Your new sushi skills will impress everyone!
