Farmer’s Choice Microgreen Mix
A mix of Pea Shoots, Sunnies, and Radish Microgreens
At our organic farm in Arlington, VA, we grow several varieties of microgreens and shoots. One mix has become a staple, showing up frequently in our Weekly Harvests. We find it to be balanced in flavor and versatile in the kitchen.
What is the Microgreens Mix (Pea Shoots, Sunnies, and Radish)?
This mix has mild pea shoots and earthy sunflower shoots, which work well together to balance out the spicy radish microgreens - the combo makes a crispy and highly nutritious blend.
Microgreens and shoots are very similar - they are both grown in soil and harvested around when the first true leaves emerge. They are also both more nutrient dense than their mature counterparts (up to 40 times more nutritious). The taste of each variety will be reminiscent of the mature plant, but milder with a more tender texture.
What’s in this mix?
Pea shoots have a sweet flavor reminiscent of fresh peas. They are part of the legume family along with beans and lentils, but pea shoots are eaten and prepared like leafy greens such as spinach and kale. They have thin, tender stems with small, delicate leaves and curly tendrils. The leaves are bright green, small, and delicate.
Sunflower shoots are hearty, earthy, and nutty, reminiscent of the flavor of sunflower seeds. When harvested young, they retain a sweetness and are particularly crunchy. They have small, slender stems with two tiny, green leaves emerging from the top.
Radish microgreens have a bold, peppery flavor similar to mature radishes.The radish microgreens we grow at Area 2 Farms have bright, green leaves and stems that are both white and a vibrant pink.
How to Prepare the Mix of Pea Shoots, Sunnies, and Radish Microgreens
Before using this mix, rinse the greens in cold water to prevent wilting leaves. Dry them gently on a paper towel or with a salad spinner and refrigerate. Here are a few ways to use your Pea Shoots, Sunnies, and Radish Microgreens mix:
Raw: This mix makes a great addition to eggs, salads, burgers, or on top of curry dishes and stir fries.
Sautéed micros and shoots: Use olive oil, salt, pepper, and any herbs and spices of your choice and lightly sauté.
Make a pesto: Put micros and shoots, fresh basil, garlic, roasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil (don’t forget some salt) in a blender or food processor. You can use this unique pesto as a sauce for vegetables or pasta.
Pea Shoots, Sunnies, and Radish Microgreens Health Benefits
The ease of use of this mix makes it simple to add vital nutrition to your meals. Each ingredient in this mix holds many vitamins and minerals that help your overall health.
Nutrient-dense: Pea shoots are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Sunnies contain vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Radish micros are also rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Weight Management: All three ingredients are low in calories and high in fiber. They will make you feel satiated and allow you to better manage your weight.
Antioxidants: The combination of these greens gives you vital antioxidants, which reduce oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants also support skin health.
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.
