Most people think microgreens are just a trendy salad garnish. But that’s only scratching the surface. These tiny greens pack a powerful punch—not just in flavor but in nutrition, convenience, and sustainability. What if I told you microgreens could help you supercharge your health, upgrade your meals, and even grow food in small spaces—fast?

In this post, you'll learn what most people never talk about when it comes to microgreens, including a surprising way to use them that could change how you think about food and skincare altogether.

Meet the Microgreen Expert

Hi, I’m Connor Hiebel, founder of Amelia Island Microgreens. With over 13 years of hands-on growing experience, we’ve been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and The Florida Times-Union. We’ve helped thousands of people successfully grow microgreens right at home—no farm, backyard, or green thumb required.

If you want to grow fresh, nutrient-packed food in just 7 days, you’re in the right place.

What Are Microgreens—and Why Are They So Powerful?

Microgreens are young seedlings of vegetables and herbs, harvested just days after sprouting. They may be small, but don’t be fooled: microgreens can contain up to 40% more nutrients than their mature counterparts.

That means a small handful of broccoli microgreens can have more nutrients than a whole head of broccoli. Pretty amazing, right?

They’re especially great for:

• Gut health
• Reducing inflammation
• Boosting immunity

And yes—there are university-backed studies supporting their benefits.

7 Delicious Ways to Use Microgreens (That Aren’t Just Salad)

Let’s move beyond the salad bowl. Microgreens are incredibly versatile. Here are some of our favorite ways to use them:

1. Smoothies and Juices

Toss in microgreens like pea shoots or sunflower greens for a protein-rich, nutrient-dense boost. The mild ones (like broccoli or peas) are nearly tasteless in a smoothie, while spicy ones like radish or mustard add a gingery kick.

Pro tip: Use spicier varieties when you want that extra zing.

Check out this video for a protien packed morning smoothie

2. Sandwiches and Wraps

Swap out lettuce for a crunchy, flavorful alternative. Microgreens bring color, texture, and extra nutrition to any lunch.

3. Hot Meals and Garnishes

You can cook with microgreens, but there’s a catch. Heating them can reduce their nutrients. Instead, stir them into soups, pastas, or omelets just before serving. That way, you get the flavor and the nutrition.

Want a deep dive? Check out this video on cooked vs. raw microgreens.

4. DIY Microgreen Pesto

Yes, pesto! Blend microgreens with olive oil, nuts, garlic, and lemon for a vibrant, superfood-packed spread. If you'd like a step-by-step recipe, let us know in the comments!

Check out the first video to find out more on microgreen pesto!

5. Kid-Friendly Recipes

Microgreens are fun to grow—and even picky eaters love them when they grow their own. One parent told us their chicken-nugget-loving kid started eating veggies just because he grew microgreens for a science project!

6. Finishing Salt for Picky Eaters

Dehydrate microgreens, grind them, and mix with sea salt. Now you’ve got a superfood finishing salt—perfect for sprinkling on meals without affecting taste.

7. Natural Skincare (Surprise!)

Some microgreens—like sunflower and wheatgrass—are packed with antioxidants that promote healthy, glowing skin. Add them to your diet or blend into DIY face masks for natural skincare support.

Why Grow Microgreens at Home?

Growing microgreens isn’t just easy—it’s smart.

✅ Ready in 7 Days

Most microgreens go from seed to harvest in just a week. Perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier, fast.

✅ Grow Anywhere

All you need is a 12x9 inch tray. That small tray can grow 6 ounces of greens—enough for almost a week of daily servings. They’re ideal for apartments, RVs, or even boats.

Learn more from one of our happy customers on how she would use microgreens on her sailboat

✅ NASA-Approved

Microgreens have been grown in space! If astronauts can grow them on the ISS, you can grow them in your kitchen.

✅ Budget-Friendly

Store-bought microgreens are pricey. Growing them at home costs a fraction—and with a microgreen kit, it’s practically foolproof.

Sustainability You Can Taste

Microgreens aren’t just good for you—they’re good for the planet.

• 98% less water than traditional farming
• No pesticides, chemicals, or preservatives
• Less food waste (you harvest only what you need)
• Longer shelf life than store-bought greens
• Zero plastic packaging or transport emissions



And remember: growing microgreens empowers you to control what goes into your food—and your body.

Ready to Grow? Start Here 👇

Want to learn how to grow fresh, healthy microgreens in just 7 days?

👉 Join our FREE Microgreen Masterclass at

ameliaislandmicrogreens.com/101

We’ll walk you through every step—from setup to harvest—so you can grow confidently and successfully.

What's your favorite way to use microgreens (beyond salads)?

Share your ideas or recipes in the comments—we love hearing from our community.

And if you found this post helpful, don’t forget to share it, and check out our next article:

➡️ "5 Delicious Microgreen Recipes Even Picky Eaters Will Love"

Until then, happy growing—and as always, stay awesome.