Top Chef-Approved Microgreens & Edible Leaves in NYC

Microgreens are like the tiny stars of New York's food scene. These small, young greens and herbs are picked just after their first leaves appear, giving them a strong flavor and nutrients. 

Chefs in NYC love using microgreens not just because they look good, but because they add great taste and texture to dishes. From the earthy flavor of beet greens to the spicy kick of arugula microgreens, chefs are always finding new ways to use these little plants. 

This guide looks at the best microgreens and edible leaves in NYC. Here we are showing how they add something special to the city's top restaurants.

 

Chef's Favorites Top Varieties of Cut Microgreens

Cut Microgreens are miniature versions of edible greens and herbs, harvested just after the first leaves develop, offering an intense flavor profile and a concentrated dose of nutrients. Here are some top varieties favored by chefs, along with their distinct flavors:

Cut Microgreens Variety	Flavor	Quantity
Micro Superfood Mix	Bold with notes of spice and Broccoli	6 oz.
Micro Celebration Mix	A mix of flavorful microgreens and edible flowers	3 oz. or 6 oz.
Micro Ruby Mix	A mix of spicy, earthy, and mild microgreens	4 oz. or 6 oz.
Micro Broccoli	Broccoli with a hint of cabbage	4 oz. or 8 oz.

Chef's Top Varieties of Edible Leaves

Edible leaves are versatile greens used in various cuisines for their flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. Here are some top varieties favored by chefs, along with their distinct characteristics:

Edible Leaves Variety	Flavor	Quantity
Pea Tendrils	Sweet and delicate, with a sweet garden pea flavor	8 oz.
Red Veined Sorrel	Tart and slightly citrusy	3 oz. or 6 oz.
Nasturtium Leaves	Peppery and slightly spicy	50 ct.
Salty Fingers	Briny and salty	50 ct.
Shiso Leaves Green	Mint, basil, cinnamon-like flavors	50 ct.
Shiso Leaves Purple	A blend of minty, basil-like, and citrusy flavors	50 ct.
Dulce Leaves	Sweet with a hint of mint, thyme, and rosemary	50 ct.

 

These microgreens and edible leaves are prized by chefs for their distinctive flavors, allowing them to create culinary masterpieces that delight the senses. 

 

Why Chefs and Home Cooks Love Microgreens and Edible Leaves

Microgreens and edible leaves have become the rockstars of the culinary world. It's not just because they look cute on a plate. These tiny, mighty microgreens are adored by chefs and food enthusiasts alike for a multitude of reasons that go beyond their pint-sized charm.

1. Flavor Packed in Tiny Packages

Imagine you’re biting into a pea. Now, imagine that Pea has been working out and has bulked up its flavor to superhero levels. That’s what you get with pea tendrils. 

These edible leaves deliver a concentrated burst of flavor that can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. 

Whether it’s the zing of red-veined sorrel or the spicy punch of nasturtium leaves, these greens are the taste bud titillators of the plant world.

2. Nutritional Benefits 

These tiny greens are like the Clark Kent, unassuming at first glance but packed with superhero strength. Microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their full-grown counterparts. It's like getting a whole salad's worth of vitamins in one bite. 

For instance, micro broccoli offers a wealth of vitamin C, making it a health-boosting addition to any meal. Next time you make a smoothie, toss in a micro superfood mix and feel your inner superhero emerge.

3. Enhancing Plate Presentation with Vibrant Colors

Let’s face it, we eat with our eyes first. Microgreens and edible leaves are the Instagram influencers of the food world. They add a pop of color and an elegant touch to any dish. 

Picture a bland-looking plate suddenly coming to life with a sprinkle of the vibrant Micro Ruby Mix or the festive Micro Celebration Mix. It's like upgrading from a basic meal to a five-star presentation. Your guests will be so impressed, they’ll think you trained at a culinary institute.

4. Culinary Versatility of Microgreens and Edible Leaves

Microgreens are like the Swiss Army knife of the kitchen. They can be sprinkled on salads, blended into smoothies, used as garnishes, or even become the star of the dish. Feeling fancy? Top your avocado toast with a handful of micro celebration mix. 

Making a simple pasta? Add a sprinkle of shiso leaves (both green and purple) for a flavor and color upgrade. They’re so versatile, they could probably write a cookbook on their own.

5. Maximizing Freshness and Quality in Dishes

Locally grown microgreens always arrive fresh and on time. Just like from WeQook. Since they’re often grown nearby and harvested just before they hit your plate, they maintain peak freshness and flavor. 

It’s like the difference between eating a strawberry right off the vine versus one that’s been shipped across the country and sat on a shelf for a week. Fresh microgreens make everything taste like it’s straight out of a gourmet kitchen.

6. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Growing Practices

At WeQook, our microgreens flourish in our state-of-the-art riverhead greenhouse, located in Long Island, NY. Illuminated by specialized LED lights, our microgreens receive the perfect amount of light to thrive, creating a mesmerizing ambiance with a radiant red glow. 

Grown hydroponically, our microgreens benefit from a clean and controlled environment, ensuring their optimal growth and flavor. Choosing microgreens like our Red Veined Sorrel or Micro Broccoli not only enhances the visual appeal of your dishes but also supports sustainable agriculture practices.

7. Staying Ahead of Culinary Trends with Microgreens

In the culinary world, trends come and go, but microgreens are here to stay. They align perfectly with the modern movement towards fresh, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing food. 

Chefs love them because they offer endless opportunities for creativity and experimentation. Think of them as the “next big thing” that lives up to the hype. It's like the culinary equivalent of binge-watching a really good TV show that everyone keeps talking about.

That being said here are some popular Cut Microgreens and Edible Leaves that many Chefs enjoy. First, we'll cover the microgreens, followed by the edible leaves. We are sharing the details below.

Micro Superfood Mix - Nutritional Powerhouse

Discover the power-packed Micro Superfood Mix. A dynamic blend of vibrant microgreens designed to invigorate your dishes with both taste and nourishment. Crafted with precision and care, this blend features an assortment of microgreens.

What’s in the Superfood Mix and Its Benefits

The Micro Superfood Mix from WeQook is a curated blend of bold and spicy microgreens packed with essential vitamins and nutrients. This premium mix includes Micro Broccoli, Micro Pak Choi, Micro Arugula, and Micro Purple Radish. Each component offers unique health benefits:  

• Micro Broccoli: 

Rich in Sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

• Micro Pak Choi: 

Packed with Carotenoids, Vitamin C, E, and K, contributing to immune health and skin health.

• Micro Arugula:

Contains Glucosinolates, Vitamin C, and phenols, supporting heart health and providing immune-boosting antioxidants.

• Micro Purple Radish: 

Loaded with Anthocyanins, potent antioxidants that combat inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Together, these microgreens provide a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making the Micro Superfood Mix a nutritious addition to any diet.

How to Use the Micro Superfood Mix in Everyday Cooking

The Micro Superfood Mix offers endless possibilities for incorporating nutrient-packed greens into your daily meals. Here are some creative ways to use it in your everyday cooking:

• Sprinkle on Soups and Salads: 

Add a handful of the Micro Superfood Mix to your favorite soups or salads for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

• Blend into Smoothies: 

Mix the Micro Superfood Mix into your morning smoothie for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.

• Top Appetizers and Entrees: 

Use the Micro Superfood Mix as a colorful and nutritious garnish for appetizers and entrees, such as bruschetta or grilled fish.

• Mix into Dressings: 

Incorporate the Micro Superfood Mix into homemade dressings and sauces for added texture and flavor in your dishes.

• Experiment with Stir-Fries: 

Throw the Micro Superfood Mix into stir-fries or sautés for a nutritious and vibrant addition to your meals.

 

Micro Celebration Mix - A Party of Color and Flavor

It's a special blend of colorful Microgreens and pretty Edible Flowers. We picked them just for you, so your dishes look and taste amazing. Whether you're a chef or just love cooking at home, this mix adds a pop of excitement to every bite. Let your meals shine with our Micro Celebration Mix, it's like a party on your plate!

Components and Special Features:

• Flavor Profile: 

The Micro Celebration Mix offers a vibrant spectrum of flavors. Combining the boldness of Microgreens with the delicate nuances of Edible Flowers.

• Versatile Ingredients: 

This blend comprises a curated selection of Microgreens and Edible Flowers. Carefully chosen for their taste, texture, and visual appeal.

• Hydroponic Origin: 

Grown on Long Island, New York, the Micro Celebration Mix benefits from hydroponic cultivation. Ensuring optimal nutrient absorption and flavor development.

• Food Safety Certification: 

Primus GFSI Certified, guaranteeing adherence to strict food safety standards. It provides peace of mind for both chefs and consumers.

Best Culinary Uses:

• Enhance Various Dishes: 

From appetizers to main courses, the Micro Celebration Mix adds depth and complexity to a wide range of culinary creations.

• Visual Flourish: 

Elevate the presentation of salads, entrees, and hors d'oeuvres with the vibrant colors and delicate petals of the Edible Flowers.

• Flavor Infusion: 

Infuse soups, sandwiches, and seafood dishes with the fresh, herbaceous notes of the Microgreens, enhancing both taste and aroma.

• Creative Garnishing: 

Use as a creative garnish to add a final flourish to plated dishes, transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.

 

Micro Ruby Mix: A Mix of Red Microgreens

The Micro Ruby Mix is a colorful blend of four distinct red microgreens, offering a variety of flavors and health benefits. The combination of these microgreens provides a rich, visual appeal and a powerful nutritional boost to your dishes.

Components of the Ruby Mix and Their Benefits

• Micro Bulls Blood: 

Features deep red leaves with a nutty, earthy flavor similar to beets. High in vitamins and antioxidants.

• Micro Daikon Purple: 

Offers a spicy radish flavor and rich, purple color due to anthocyanins, which support heart health and cancer prevention.

• Micro Amaranth Red: 

Delivers a mild, delicate taste and striking pink color, packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

• Micro Shiso Purple: 

Contributes unique notes of cinnamon, cumin, and ginger, along with antiseptic properties.

Ideal Dishes and Creative Uses

• Beet Salad: Enhances with vibrant colors and a mild, earthy flavor.
• Roasted Salmon: Adds visual appeal and complements the dish’s flavors.
• Crab Cakes: Perfect as a garnish, providing a fresh, colorful touch.

 

Micro Broccoli: Tiny Greens with a Big Punch

Micro Broccoli grown hydroponically at Long Island, New York and is available in convenient 4 oz. or 8 oz. clamshells, ensuring you have just the right amount for your culinary needs. Known for its fresh, broccoli-like flavor, this microgreen is as versatile as it is nutritious.

Recipe Ideas and Pairings

Micro broccoli's fresh, cabbage-like flavor makes it a versatile addition to many dishes. Here are some creative ways to incorporate these tiny greens into your meals:

• Broccoli Soup: 

Enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your broccoli soup by garnishing it with a handful of fresh micro broccoli just before serving.

• Smoothies: 

Add a nutrient boost to your morning smoothie by blending in a small portion of micro broccoli. Its mild flavor pairs well with fruits and other vegetables.

• Power Salad: 

Create a vibrant power salad by mixing micro broccoli with other microgreens, nuts, seeds, and your favorite dressing. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Facts:

Micro broccoli is loaded with essential nutrients:

• Vitamins A, C, and K: Contribute to immune function, skin health, and bone health.
• Antioxidants: Sulforaphane and other compounds are known for their potential to reduce inflammation.
• Fiber: Supports healthy digestion and gut health.

Pea Tendrils - Taste Like Pea but Better

Pea Tendrils offer a delightful taste reminiscent of sweet garden peas with a hint of nuttiness. They bring the fresh taste of spring to your kitchen all year-round. They are known for their sweet, slightly earthy flavor and delicate texture. Chefs appreciate their versatility, whether used raw in salads or lightly sautéed.

Best Dishes and Recipes Featuring Pea Tendrils

• Raw Preparation: 

Serve pea tendrils raw to enjoy their fresh, sweet flavor. They pair well with creamy cheeses and a variety of vegetables.

• Sautéed: 

Lightly sauté pea tendrils with a bit of soy sauce, sesame oil, and lemon juice. This method brings out their nutty flavor.

• Pairings: 

Complement pea tendrils with ingredients like shellfish, carrots, potatoes, asparagus, mushrooms, bacon, and basil. Their delicate flavor and texture enhance many dishes.

Nutritional Facts:

Pea tendrils are not only tasty but also a powerhouse of nutrients. They are a great source of:

• Beta Carotene: Supports eye health and contributes to immune function.
• Vitamin C: Plays a role in skin health and supports the immune system.
• Folate: Involved in DNA synthesis and repair.
• Fiber: Assists in digestion and may help with maintaining a healthy weight.

Red Veined Sorrel: The Tangy Twist to Your Dishes

Red Veined Sorrel, also known as Rumex sanguineus, is distinguished by its bright lime-green leaves with striking dark red veins and stems. This visually appealing plant offers a flavor profile that combines the mildness of lettuce with a crisp, apple-like tang. Its smooth and crisp texture makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. 

Recipes and Tips:

• Salads and Garnishes: 

Enjoy the young, tangy leaves fresh in salads or as garnishes to brighten up any dish.

• Creamed Sorrel Soup: 

Use the leaves as a natural thickener in soups for a creamy, lemony flavor.

• Beverages: 

Add Red Veined Sorrel to beverages like lemon-less lemonade or anti-inflammatory tea for a unique twist.

• Flavor Pairings: 

Pairs well with potatoes, whole grains, eggs, cream, yogurt, cheese, sour cream, veal, and fish.

Nutritional Facts:

Red Veined Sorrel is a nutrient-dense microgreen offering:

• Vitamins: Rich in vitamins C and A, along with some B vitamins.
• Minerals: Includes calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
• Antioxidants: Offers flavonoids and other phytochemicals known for their antioxidant properties.

 

Nasturtium Leaves: Peppery Leaves with Vibrant Appeal

Nasturtium leaves are known for their unique blend of peppery, spicy, and sweet flavors. These bright green leaves have a delicate, crisp texture, making them a versatile ingredient in a variety of dishes. Native to South America and grown at Long Island, New York, they are available all year round and come packed in 50-count clamshells, ensuring freshness and quality.

Best Ways to Incorporate Nasturtium Leaves in Meals

Nasturtium leaves are incredibly versatile and can enhance a wide range of dishes with their peppery kick and vibrant appearance. Here are some ideas for incorporating them into your meals:

• Gazpacho: 

Add a handful of chopped nasturtium leaves to your gazpacho for a spicy twist that complements the fresh flavors of the soup.

• Tomato Salad: 

Toss whole nasturtium leaves into a tomato salad to add a burst of peppery flavor and a pop of green color.

• Lobster Roll:

Incorporate nasturtium leaves into your lobster roll for a unique, spicy addition that elevates the dish.

Nutritional Facts:

Nasturtium leaves are packed with:

• Vitamins A, C, and D: Contribute to immune function, vision, and bone health.
• Beta-carotene: An antioxidant associated with healthy skin and cell protection.
• Iron and Manganese: Important for energy production and metabolism.
• Flavonoids: Known for their antioxidant properties and potential to reduce inflammation.

Salty Fingers: Taste like a Sunny Beach

Salty Fingers are known for their juicy, salty, and slightly bitter flavor. These unique greens are native to South America, grown at Long Island, New York - are prized for their crunchy texture and juicy brine. They are a delightful addition to various dishes, particularly those featuring seafood and shellfish.

Culinary Applications and Recipes

Salty Fingers are incredibly versatile and can enhance a wide range of dishes. Here are some popular culinary uses and recipe ideas to incorporate Salty Fingers into your meals:

• Salad Enhancer: 

Add Salty Fingers and mix them into salads for an added crunchy, salty element.

• Gourmet Garnish: 

Use them as a garnish for seafood dishes like ceviche, sushi, or grilled fish to enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Pickling: 

Pickle Salty Fingers preserve their unique taste and use them as a tangy addition to various dishes.

Nutritional Facts:

Salty Fingers offer a unique combination of nutrients:

• Proteins: Can contribute to muscle repair and growth.
• Carbohydrates: Can provide a quick source of energy.
• Oils: May offer essential fatty acids for overall health.

 

Dulce Leaves: Sweeter than sugar

Dulce Leaves is an extraordinary green used by the Aztecs and native cultures throughout Latin America. Used both as an herbal sweetener and for medicinal purposes. 

These leaves are incredibly sweet, with a flavor profile that includes hints of mint, thyme, and rosemary. Remarkably, they are about 500 times sweeter than sugar, making them a powerful natural sweetener.

Top Dishes to Try with Dulce Leaves

Dulce Leaves are versatile and can be incorporated into various dishes and beverages. Here are some top culinary uses and recipe ideas:

• Cocktails: 

Use Dulce Leaves as a natural sweetener in cocktails. Muddle a leaf or two in your drink to add sweetness and a hint of minty flavor, perfect for mojitos or mint juleps.

• Pastries: 

Incorporate Dulce Leaves into baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and muffins. Their sweetness can reduce the need for added sugars, while their herbal notes can enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Lemonade: 

Add Dulce Leaves to lemonade for a refreshing, naturally sweetened beverage. The combination of sweet and minty flavors makes for a delicious and unique drink.

Shiso Leaves: The Exotic Herb

Both Shiso Leaves green and Shiso Leaves purple are available in 50-count clamshells, ensuring they stay fresh until you're ready to use them. Their vibrant colors and distinctive flavors make them a valuable addition to various dishes, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Differences Between Green and Purple Shiso

Shiso leaves, also known as perilla, come in two main varieties: green and purple. Both varieties are native to East Asia and are celebrated for their distinctive flavors and versatile culinary uses.

• Shiso leaves Green: 

These leaves have a deep green color and a textured surface. The flavor profile of green shiso includes notes of mint, basil, and cinnamon, making it a fragrant and flavorful addition to many dishes. 

Green shiso leaves are commonly used with sushi, vegetables, and pastries, adding a fresh and aromatic touch.

• Shiso leaves Purple: 

Distinguished by their deep purple hue and similar textured appearance. Purple shiso leaves offer a flavor reminiscent of anise, basil, and a hint of citrus. 

These leaves are traditionally used with sushi and raw fish preparations and are also employed as a natural food dye. They pair excellently with vegetables and fish, providing a unique and vibrant flavor.

Popular Uses of Shiso Leaves

Shiso leaves are versatile and can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes across different cuisines. Here are some popular recipes and uses for both green and purple shiso leaves:

• Sushi: 

Use green shiso leaves as a wrap for sushi or sashimi to add a fresh, herbal note.

• Seared Tuna: 

Garnish seared tuna with shredded green shiso for a burst of flavor and color.

• Ramen: 

Add chopped green shiso to ramen for a refreshing contrast to the rich broth.

• Wrap with Rice and Lamb: 

Use green shiso leaves as a wrap for rice and lamb, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish.

• Old Fashioned Cocktail: 

Incorporate purple shiso leaves into an Old Fashioned cocktail for a unique twist.

• Spicy Asian Noodles: 

Add chiffonade purple shiso to spicy Asian noodle dishes to enhance the flavor with its anise and citrus notes.

Nutritional Facts:

Shiso leaves are not only flavorful but also highly nutritious:

• Vitamins C, A, and K: May help in immune function, vision, and blood clotting.
• Minerals: Rich in potassium, iron, and magnesium, which help in overall health.
• Anthocyanins: Antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microgreens and Edible Leaves

Here we are sharing all the common questions about Microgreens and Edible Leaves. And don’t worry, we’ll keep it light and fun.

How do you use microgreens in Cooking?

Ans: Microgreens can be used in various dishes to enhance flavor, texture, and nutritional value. They are great for adding to salads, sandwiches, and wraps, or as a garnish for soups, omelets, and stir-fries. They can also be blended into smoothies or juiced for an extra nutrient boost.

What is the difference between Cut Microgreens and Living Microgreens?

Ans: Cut microgreens are harvested and packaged without roots, ready for immediate use. Living microgreens are sold with their roots intact, often still growing in soil or another growth medium. Living microgreens stay fresh longer as they can be harvested just before use, preserving their nutritional content and flavor.

Why are microgreens considered a superfood?

Ans: Microgreens are considered a superfood due to their high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, often containing higher nutrient levels than their mature counterparts. This makes them an excellent addition to a balanced diet, supporting overall health and well-being.

Where can I buy fresh microgreens in New York?

Ans: You can purchase the freshest microgreens in New York exclusively from WeQook. WeQook offers a variety of high-quality microgreens that are perfect for all your culinary needs. With our convenient online ordering system, getting your hands on these nutrient-packed greens has never been easier.

Are there delivery options for microgreens in New York?

Ans: Yes, there are delivery options for microgreens in New York. WeQook provides delivery services for fresh microgreens. Orders placed before noon are delivered the next day, with all shipments sent Next Day Priority Overnight from Monday to Thursday to ensure maximum freshness. 

How do I store microgreens to keep them fresh longer?

Ans: To keep cut microgreens fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container, such as in our clamshell. Placing a damp paper towel in the container can help maintain moisture levels. It's best to consume them within a few days for optimal freshness and nutritional value.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it! We've explored everything you need to know about microgreens and edible leaves, from their incredible nutritional benefits to the best ways to use and store them. 

Ready to get started? Order your top chef-approved microgreens from WeQook today and experience the freshest flavors New York has to offer. Your kitchen creations are about to get a whole lot greener and tastier. Happy cooking!