Do you typically pick the same vegetables every time you hit the grocery store? It’s a great idea to have your favorite staples in the fridge, but don’t be afraid to try something new. The next time you’re grocery shopping, give these delicious options another look!
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts don’t exactly have the best reputation, but we’re here to change your mind! Did you know Brussels sprouts actually contain four times more vitamin C than an orange? Now that’s a super food. Try tossing your sprouts with a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper, and then roast on a baking sheet until crispy for an easy and flavorful side dish. You can also try pairing it with a creamy mushroom sauce like this one.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a versatile food. This veggie can be prepared raw, steamed, grilled, or baked. You can even mash your cauliflower to make an excellent alternative to starchy potatoes. It’s a great source of fiber, low in calories and high in vitamins. Try a few ways to cook cauliflower and we’re sure you’ll find one you love. Roasting is an easy way to start, try this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower.
Eggplant
Eggplant is known for it’s beautiful dark purple color. The dark purple pigment contains an antioxidant known as Nasunin. Nasunin can help blood flow to the brain. In addition, the fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 all support heart health. Eggplant can be steamed, roasted, baked, or even fried. Or if eggplant tacos are more your style, we have the perfect recipe here. Pick one up and reap the endless benefits!
Summer Squash
Summer squash comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They’re low in calories and carbs, full in vitamin C and vitamin B6. This can help boost immunity, repair cells, and slow down the aging process. If you’re wondering if you can eat the skin, the answer is yes! Consuming the skin maximizes the antioxidant content. It’s also safe to eat raw, so ditch the chips and use this crunchy veggie to enjoy your favorite dipping sauce. Or try roasting your summer squash with other veggies to make this quick side dish.
Tomatoes
Just to be clear, we’re not talking about the tomatoes in pizza sauce! Tomatoes are technically a fruit, but we usually file them under the vegetable category. Either way, tomatoes are a great source of several vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate. Toss a few cherry tomatoes in your salad, or slice one up to make a BLT.
Now that you have some ideas, it’s time to grab one or two new veggies and give them a try. Experiment with different ways to cook your veggies and give your body a huge dose of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and so much more!
