Can You Freeze Microgreens? What to Do With Extras
Microgreens are vibrant, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Our microgreens typically stay fresh for up to three weeks, but like all fresh produce, they don’t last forever. If you’ve ever found yourself with more microgreens than you can use, or if you've opened your crisper drawer and realized you forgot about them, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we hear is: Can you freeze microgreens? The short answer: Yes, but with caveats.
Here’s what you need to know about preserving microgreens and making the most of every harvest:
❄️ Can You Freeze Microgreens?
Technically, yes—you can freeze microgreens. But because they’re so delicate, they don’t retain their crisp texture once thawed. Freezing breaks down their cellular structure, which means they’ll come out softer and better suited for cooked dishes than fresh salads.
Best uses for thawed microgreens:
- Stirred into soups, omelets, or grain bowls
- Blended into smoothies or pestos
- Added to sauces for a nutritional boost
If your main goal is to preserve the flavor and nutrients (rather than the texture), freezing can work in a pinch. To freeze, gently wash and dry your microgreens, lay them flat on a baking sheet to pre-freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
♻️ How to Reduce Waste Instead
Freezing is one option—but there are lots of ways to use up extra microgreens before they spoil. Here are a few ideas:
- Make a micro pesto: Blend any leftover greens with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and nuts or seeds for a bright, punchy pesto.
- Add to smoothies: Broccoli and radish microgreens are especially great for green smoothies.
- Toss into cooked dishes: Even a quick stir-in at the end of cooking can add nutrients and flavor to pasta, stir-fries, or scrambled eggs.
- Infuse oils or vinegar: Steep microgreens in olive oil or vinegar to create a subtly flavored base for dressings or marinades.
- Dehydrate them: If you have a dehydrator, drying microgreens for use in spice blends or as a topping is a great zero-waste move.
🥗 The Freshest Approach: Plan Ahead
To keep your greens fresh and avoid waste in the first place:
- Order only what you need (our small clamshells are perfect for individuals and couples)
- Store properly in a breathable container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture
- Eat often! Sprinkle a handful on sandwiches, eggs, grain bowls, tacos—you name it.
🌿 Bottom Line
While freezing microgreens can help reduce waste, it’s not ideal for preserving their fresh crunch. Try creative ways to use them up instead—or reach out if you need tips on adjusting your order size. We’re here to help you get the most from every leaf.