Alongside our traditional farmer produce stands you will also find one of our urban farmers, EcoFriendly Greens. They specialize in microgreens, which are known for their super nutrient-dense and vitamin-packed greens. But what do you do with these and why should you buy from the market? Let us help!
We talked with Rafeal Medrona, from EcoFriendly Greens, and got the nitty-gritty on these beneficial mini crops. Tired and worn down from the normal wear and tear of an office job and unhealthy lifestyle, Rafeal got his start in urban farming back in 2019. Looking to increase his energy level and overall health, he created his urban farm and started growing microgreens on vertical shelving after seeing the health benefits for himself.
Microgreens are your shortcut to nutrition as they provide up to 40 times more nutrients than their full veggie counterparts and grown directly from their seeds. Did we mention they include essential vitamins such as C, E and K and full of flavor? They are smaller than baby greens but bigger than your regular sprout.
They are also super easy to use! Simply add them to your eggs in the morning, on a sandwich for lunch, or in a salad for dinnertime. They’re also delicious in tacos, on pizza, or even in smoothies. Heading to the market this week? Be sure to pick up the three we mention below to create your own superfood meal at home. Also, when you buy them from the market they are cut from live trays, which give you the maximum shelf life.
Avocado Toast:
Microgreens: Onion, arugula, and cilantro
1 Slice Sourdough Bread
Half an Avocado
Juice from a lemon
Salt
Grab a slice of sourdough bread and toast it. Next blend together your avocado, a little lemon juice, and pinch of salt. Add your avocado mixture to the top of your toast and then cut and add your microgreen trio.
How to store:
The important thing to note when storing your microgreens is they need to stay dry. Do not wet the towel! A bamboo paper towel is provided when you buy them fresh cut from our market. This helps to absorb the moisture. Just keep them dry and refrigerated and it will last up to two weeks. Plus, the compostable packaging also makes them last longer than plastic. EcoFriendly Greens also sells lettuce with roots attached. Put the lettuce in the refrigerator with a little water on the bottom and that can last you a month.
You can also find other popular microgreens such as broccoli, pea, radish, sunflower, and kale at the Lodi Certified Farmers Market downtown every Thursday night from 5 pm – 8 pm, June 3rd – August 26th. Can’t get enough microgreens? Visit ecofriendlygreens.com and signup for their monthly subscription with free delivery service right to your front door (which includes Lodi)! See website for other delivery areas.