Winter: Not Totally Barren, You Guys

 

If you ask your mind’s eye, winter pretty much means cold, snowy times and maybe a few snowball fights. But even though it looks like everything grinds to a halt, there is still a slew of seasonal fare to be had. Click through for our favorite veggies that stand up to winter’s dreary conditions. We even threw in some delicious ways to enjoy them. We wouldn’t leave you hanging like that.

RED CABBAGE

There’s tons of Vitamin K all up in cabbage, so eat up. Perhaps you’d like a nice slaw? Can’t go wrong with crunchy. This one looks and sounds particularly scrumptious.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Poor brussels sprouts. They’ve got it rough, what with being at the top of so many folks’ Unfavorite Veggies lists. But these little relatives of cabbage and collard greens are laughing all the way to the nutritional bank. Give them a second chance, they just want to help. We bet this simple and scrumptious recipe will change your mind about them.

CAULIFLOWER

Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C. Sounds weird but it’s true. For your reading pleasure, more on the health benefits of cauliflower. For your eating pleasure, a cheesy cauliflower gratin.

KALE

By now you’ve heard about kale’s superpowers. For anyone just joining us, it’s full of vitamin A, vitamin C, lutein and zeaxanthin. It’s low in calories, but high in fiber. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s got zero fat. Whew. Learn how to use Kale as a surprisingly delicious snack here.

CELERY

It’s mostly water, so you may be surprised by celery’s vitamin content. Not only is it a useful source of beta-carotene, but you can count on it for vitamins A, B1, B6, B9, K and folate. Enjoy celery with assorted dips for all sorts of yumminess. Hummus? Peanut butter? If you go for Ranch, might we suggest this one?

POTATOES

Potatoes are full of more than carbs. They’re a great source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium and iron. Plus they pack serious comforting power, especially when you mash them. Here’s a classic recipe. For a healthier spin, use yogurt in place of heavy cream.

CARROTS

Ah, carrots. Our BFFs. They’re an amazing source of vitamin A, and a great place to find beta-carotene. What’s not to love about carrots? We say keep things simple, yet fancy-looking. Roast them with balsamic vinegar – your taste buds will love you.

ONIONS

Another surprising vehicle for vitamin C, onions are also home to antioxidant flavonoids like quercetin. If you can stand up to the tear-inducing power, or have a good pair of goggles, make these better-for-you onion rings. Hint: they’re baked, not fried.
Actually, you could always combine the whole lot into one nice warm-your-bones stew. It’s winter, after all.