A person in a white sweater holding a ceramic tray of pea microgreens.

If you’re looking for a healthy yet delicious addition to your diet, then pea microgreens are the perfect choice. These tiny seedlings are packed with incredible health benefits and are incredibly easy to grow at home. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at pea microgreens, including how to grow them, their nutritional benefits, and some simple yet delicious recipes you can try. So, whether you’re a health-conscious eater or a passionate gardener, read on to discover why pea microgreens should be a staple in your diet.

What are Pea Microgreens?

Pea Microgreens are the young, tender shoots of pea plants that are harvested after just a few weeks of growth. These tiny sprouts are incredibly nutrient-dense, thanks to their high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Unlike garden pea plants, pea microgreens can be easily grown indoors using a tray, soil, and seeds. With their delicate leaves and sweet, delicate flavor, pea microgreens make a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.

Nutritional Benefits of Pea Microgreens

A person holding a bowl of sliced bananas, blue berries, pineapple, pomegranate seeds, pea microgreens, and  yogurt topped with flax seeds.

Pea microgreens are incredibly nutritious and are a potent source of vitamins A, C, and E, and folate. They’re also rich in essential minerals such as potassium, iron, and zinc and are packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Recent studies have also found that pea microgreens contain high levels of phytoestrogens. Which can help regulate hormonal balance and reduce symptoms of menopause. Additional research has shown that pea microgreens can help boost the immune system, improve digestion, aid in weight loss, and promote healthy skin and hair.

Read more about the benefits of pea microgreens below:

Assessment of nutritional and metabolic profiles of pea shoots: The new ready-to-eat baby-leaf Vegetable, April 2014, Food Research International

Comprehensive Evaluation of Metabolites and Minerals in 6 Microgreen Species and the Influence of Maturity

Small but mighty: Microgreens go from trendy vegetables to functional food.

How to Grow Pea Microgreens

2 trays of pea microgreens with tendrils intertwining.

Growing pea microgreens is incredibly easy and doesn’t require a degree in horticulture. You can grow them indoors all year round, or outdoors during the warmer months. To grow pea microgreens, all you need are some seeds, soil, a container, and some sunlight. Within a few days, you should start to see the pea microgreens sprout!

This microgreen grow kit features a clear growing tray: Window Garden Microgreens Grow Kit

Here’s a simple method that you can use to grow your own pea microgreens at home.

Step 1: Soak pea seeds in water for 4-12 hours.

Step 2: Rinse the seeds and spread them evenly on a tray lined with soil.

Step 3: Water the seeds evenly and cover the tray with a lid so they are not exposed to light

Step 4: While in the dark environment keep the seeds moist by misting frequently for 2-3 days

Step 5: Place the tray in a bright, warm location. In winter, use a seedling mat and grow lights.

Step 6: Water the seeds regularly and ensure that the soil stays moist.

Step 7: After 10-14 days, your pea microgreens will be ready for harvesting.

How to Incorporate Pea Microgreens in Your Daily Diet

Sunflower and Pea shoots paired with alfalfa sprouts on a serving tray.

Pea microgreens can be enjoyed in so many different ways! Toss them into salads or sandwiches for an added crunch, blend them into smoothies and juices, or top your favorite meals with them for a burst of flavor. Pea microgreens are also a great addition to vegan and vegetarian dishes, as they provide protein and other essential nutrients.

Simple Recipes to Try

Pea microgreens and olives wrapped in thin slices of beef on a black kitchen surface. A tray of pea microgreens growing in a clear tray and pink sea salt in the background.

Pea microgreens are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes. Here are some simple yet delicious ideas to get you started.

Pea Microgreen Salad: Combine pea microgreens, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a delicious and nutrient-packed salad.

Pea Microgreen Smoothie: Blend pea microgreens, frozen berries, bananas, and almond milk for a filling and delicious smoothie.

Pea Microgreen Pesto: Combine pea microgreens, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and parmesan cheese for a vibrant and delicious pesto that’s perfect on pasta or as a dip.

A tray of pea shoots growing in a clear plastic tray decorated with a strip of burlap.

Pea microgreens are a small but mighty superfood that can supercharge your daily diet. Not only are they easy to grow, but they also offer numerous health benefits that can improve your overall well-being. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or a gardener, adding pea microgreens to your daily meals is a delicious and nutritious way to enhance your diet.

Happy growing!