Why is there a sudden surge of interest in watercress microgreens? Historically, watercress has been valued for centuries for its medicinal properties. Its microgreen counterpart continues this tradition, providing traditional health advantages in a modern, convenient presentation. What does this mean for you?
Watercress microgreens offer:
- A readily accessible source of vital nutrients. Nutrition-wise, watercress microgreens are rich in essential vitamins such as A, B complex, C, E, and K. They also contain vital minerals including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. This contributes to overall health and wellness.
- Tons of flavor in a peppery, slightly tangy way. The flavor of watercress microgreens can elevate a dish and provide a burst of freshness. This follows contemporary culinary trends focusing on nutritious, flavorful eating.
- Healthy naturally occurring bioactive compounds called phytochemicals. These include bright orange and yellow pigments called carotenoids, like beta carotene. They also include polyphenols, anthocyanins, and glucosinolates. These substances fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. This can help protect the body from damage and disease.
Imagine the delight of guests savoring a dish enhanced with these microgreens, experiencing both the extra zest and nutritional value they provide. As a cook or host, you gain satisfaction from serving meals that are as healthy as they are flavorful.
Incorporating watercress microgreens into your meals is simple.
They can be layered in sandwiches, used as a garnish on soups and salads, or sprinkled over any dish that benefits from a bold, peppery accent.
For culinary inspiration, consider a recipe like Burrata and Microgreens with Mandarin Orange Vinaigrette by Amanda MacArthur. This dish combines the sweet and salty flavors of mandarin oranges and Burrata cheese with nutrient-dense microgreens, topped with crunchy cashews.
Ingredients
- 6-8 mandarin oranges (1/2 cup fresh juice, some slices reserved)
- 2 tsp seasoned rice wine vinegar
- 1-clove of garlic
- 1-shallot, sliced finely
- 1 tbsp honey (add more for a sweeter dressing)
- pinch of salt
- pinch of freshly cracked pepper
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (sesame oil is tasty as well!)
- 2 cups fresh Watercress Microgreens
- 1/4 cup salted cashew halves
- Optional: 4oz Burrata cheese
Instructions
- In a small ball jar or dressing cruet, add the zest of one mandarin orange. Slice the oranges in half and squeeze until you get about 1/2 cup of juice in the jar. Reserve some mandarin pieces that are still a little juicy, or pull them from a new orange.
- Grate 1/4 – 1/2 a fresh clove of garlic, depending on your preference, and finely slice your shallot. Add a pinch of shallot to the dressing with the garlic, and reserve the rest of the shallot for the salad as a garnish. Mix and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Add honey, salt, and pepper, oil, then screw on the cover and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Let sit for at least 15 more minutes, but it tastes even better if you refrigerate it overnight!
- Prepare a bowl of microgreens, and if adding Burrata, add it to the middle and drizzle with extra honey. Top with cashews, remaining sliced shallots, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and drizzle with citrus vinaigrette. Enjoy!
This recipe exemplifies how watercress microgreens can be integrated into diverse dishes, adding both nutritional value and vibrant flavor. Their versatility makes them suitable for salads, garnishes, and more elaborate culinary creations, aligning with health-conscious and flavor-focused eating habits.
In summary, watercress microgreens are a potent, flavorful, and nutritious addition to modern cuisine. They are rich phytochemical profile, vibrant color, and peppery taste. This makes them a good choice for enhancing both health and variety in dishes. Adding them into your meals adds flavor, while giving you good health benefits.
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