Cilantro Microgreens
Cilantro microgreens are the young, tender shoots of the cilantro plant, grown in nutrient-rich soil at our organic farm in Arlington, VA. Their bright, lemony flavor is fresh and floral. And with lower levels of the compounds that make cilantro taste “soapy” to some, these microgreens might just win over a few cilantro haters.
What are Cilantro Microgreens?
Cilantro microgreens are the young, leafy shoots of the cilantro plant, harvested just 14–20 days after germination when their first true leaves emerge. Grown in nutrient-rich soil right here in Arlington, VA, these greens stand about 2–4 cm tall, with feathery, fern-like leaves and slender, pale green stems.
They deliver a fresh, floral, lemony flavor with a subtle bitterness and sweet undertone—like a brighter, cleaner version of mature cilantro. Their tender texture and crisp bite make them ideal for raw dishes.
Cilantro belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsley, and celery. It’s a historic herb, woven through thousands of years of culinary tradition from the Mediterranean to the Middle East and South Asia.
Cilantro microgreens contain fewer aldehydes than mature cilantro leaves. Aldehydes are the aromatic compounds that give cilantro its signature citrusy note, but they’re also found in soap. If you’re someone with the OR6A2 gene variant, you’re more sensitive to these compounds, which explains why cilantro might taste like dish soap to you. But thanks to their lower aldehyde content and higher levels of floral terpenes like linalool and limonene, cilantro microgreens may be a more palatable option, even for the cilantro skeptics.
Comparison to Mature Cilantro:
Nutrients: Microgreens contain 4–40 times more vitamins and antioxidants due to their concentrated metabolic activity.
Flavor: Less soapy, more citrus-forward—thanks to reduced aldehydes and enhanced floral terpenes.
Texture: Delicate and succulent, making them perfect for garnishing and fresh applications.
How to Prepare Cilantro Microgreens
Cilantro microgreens are best enjoyed raw, where their bright citrusy notes and tender texture can be enjoyed. Here are some ways to use them:
Sprinkle on everything: tacos, enchiladas, grain bowls, sandwiches, scrambled eggs, or avocado toast.
Use as a garnish for soups like pho, ramen, or chicken noodle.
Toss into salads, especially ones with citrus or avocado.
Muddle into a mojito or float on top of a paloma to give cocktails (or mocktails) an herbal, lemony twist.
Because they’re so delicate, it’s best to add cilantro microgreens just before serving.
Cilantro Microgreen Health Benefits
Antioxidant Protection: Cilantro’s natural compounds (polyphenols) fight harmful molecules (free radicals) in your body, which could lower your chances of serious illnesses like cancer or heart disease.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Special nutrients (flavonoids) in these greens calm inflammation, potentially easing conditions like arthritis by reducing swelling and discomfort.
Digestive Support: Cilantro’s natural oils (terpenes) boost digestive enzymes, helping reduce bloating and keeping your gut happy and comfortable.
Nutrient Boost: Cilantro microgreens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, which support strong immunity, healthy skin, and better blood clotting, giving your body a quick, easy health kick.
Cilantro Microgreen Facts
If cilantro tastes like soap to you, you’re not imagining it. About 10–20% of people have a gene variant called OR6A2, which makes them more sensitive to aldehydes—the same compounds found in some soaps and cleaning products.
Cilantro microgreens can contain 4 to 40 times more vitamins and antioxidants than their mature counterparts. This includes nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and beta-carotene—thanks to the high metabolic activity during early growth stages.
Cilantro has been around for a long time—it was found in King Tut’s tomb, written about in ancient Sanskrit texts, and even used in early Chinese medicine.
Area 2 Farms for Locals
Your food should be equally accessible and nutritious. Which is where we come in. We’re Area 2 Farms, we grow fresh, organic produce, deliver it to your door weekly, and operate all within 10 miles of you.
