Green is the theme for this month so it’s only fitting to seek out the healthiest green foods for vegans. Green vegetables are super-charged with antioxidants, fiber, and other health-promoting nutrients, and are especially abundant in the spring. Here are four green veggies to put on your table.
Green is the theme for this month so it’s only fitting to seek out the healthiest green foods for vegans. Green vegetables are super-charged with antioxidants, fiber, and other health-promoting nutrients, and are especially abundant in the spring. Here are four green veggies to put on your table.
Dark leafy greens
The most concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, dark leafy greens are a low-calorie, flavorful way to boost your nutrition. Spinach, kale, chard, collard greens, and beet greens can be sauteed with olive oil and garlic for a quick vegan side dish, or stirred into soups and stews. Watercress, arugula, dandelion leaves, and dark leafy lettuce can be tossed into salads along with a bounty of other colorful veggies for a nutrient-loaded meal. Greens can even be whirred into silky soups, sauces, or smoothies.
Fresh herbs
Spring is the time to grow your own herbs or take advantage of the fresh crop at the farmers’ market. Herbs are too often overlooked as a tasty source of nutrition because they are used sparingly. We recommend adding handfuls of herbs to your vegan meals for their fresh flavor as well as their bounty of long-known health benefits. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 80% of the world population still depends upon traditional herbal remedies. Instead of waiting until you need herbal healing, start using fresh herbs in your diet now as a means of disease prevention.
Broccoli
One of our favorite cancer-fighting foods, broccoli is part of the cruciferous family, which includes other cancer-combatting veggies, such as cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Broccoli can be eaten raw or cooked (lightly, please, to retain the nutrients), added to salads, tossed with grains or pasta, stir-fried, and added to soups.
>>Bountiful broccoli recipes
Brussels sprouts
Related to broccoli, Brussels sprouts are dense in antioxidants and other cancer-fighting substances. Brussels sprouts can also help lower cholesterol. The key with these veggies, which look like mini-cabbages, is to not overcook them. Seek out baby Brussels sprouts and lightly saute them until just tender or shred fresh Brussels sprouts to make a slaw.
>>Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Onions
More healthy vegan lifestyle tips!
Leave a Comment