We have all heard it, vegetables are good for you. It’s true. According to the School of Public Health at Harvard, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar, which can help keep appetite in check.
How much are adults supposed to eat every day? As attested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s recommended adults should be consuming 2 to 3 cups of vegetables each day. Some of you may be saying uck! Vegetables are so gross or lack any flavor to make you want to eat them. The good news is there are ways to enhance the flavor. Maybe even shift your view on vegetables all together!
There are several ways to make vegetables taste better, including:
- Roasting: Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth of flavor. Simply toss your vegetables with some oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized.
- Seasoning: Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor to your vegetables. Some popular choices include garlic, cumin, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. You can also try adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Sautéing: Sautéing vegetables in a little bit of oil over high heat can help to enhance their natural flavors and add a crispy texture. Be sure to keep the vegetables moving in the pan to prevent them from burning.
- Grilling: Grilling is a great way to add smoky flavor to your vegetables. You can grill them on skewers or in a grill basket, and brush them with a little oil and seasoning to help them cook evenly.
- Adding cheese: If you're a cheese lover, try sprinkling some grated Parmesan or feta cheese over your vegetables. The salty flavor of the cheese can help to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Pairing with dips and sauces: Vegetables can taste great when paired with dips and sauces like hummus, guacamole, or tzatziki. These dips add creamy texture and extra flavor to the vegetables.
Overall, the key to making vegetables taste better is to experiment with different cooking techniques, seasonings, and flavor combinations until you find what works best for you.
Eat up!
