We all know that vegetables are an essential component for our long-term health, but many people find it incredibly difficult to get enough of them into their diets. While this is partially due to the deficiencies inherent in the Western diet, a large portion of the problem is simply because of the fact that people simply don’t like them.

Far too commonly, vegetables are associated with being bland and tasteless – an unpleasant necessity rather than foods people would actually choose as something to enjoy. 

It doesn’t have to be this way, however. Whether it’s through exploring new ways to prepare them, trying unique meal ideas, or digging deep into the health benefits, there are a myriad of ways to better incorporate veg into your daily diet. In this article, you’ll learn how.

How to Enjoy Vegetables

Start With What You Know You Like

If you’re someone who’s not a big fan of eating vegetables and struggles to get them in, the place to start is with stuff you do like. While you might consider yourself to dislike all vegetables, this is very rarely the case; consider your favorite savory meals – it’s highly likely at least part of their flavor is derived from veg. 

Start trying to incorporate these vegetables first. Perhaps the crunch of red bell peppers in a cottage pie is something you like, so you could try something like stuffed peppers or roasting them in the air fryer. 

You can also take meals that don’t contain vegetables but that you know you love, and try adding some to enhance the flavor. For example, if you like tacos, you could try pairing some roasted squash in there for an extra kick. Something like vegetable soup is another great way to get your vegetables in, because the number of different varieties in there in combination with the stock can disguise flavors you’re not as keen on. 

Cooking Methods

When people say that they have a particular dislike for veg, they’re usually thinking of them eaten raw or just blandly boiled: it’s common for people to have had negative experiences with being forced to eat certain foods (Brussel sprouts are a common one) to the extent that they now have an aversion to them in adulthood. 

The reality is, though, that much of the great flavor we associate with veg comes from how you season them, and how you cook them. Here are some of the main cooking methods you can try:

Grilling

Grilling is one of the quickest ways you can improve the flavor of tasteless food, and vegetables are no exception. Foods like eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini work particularly well when brushed lightly with a bit of oil and grilled slowly until they go tender. 

Roasting

Roasting is a method that can greatly enhance the flavor of veg. It brings out the natural sweetness of root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, beets, and brussel sprouts. Add a little olive oil along with a hint of salt and pepper, and you’ll turn these foods into a wholly different experience. 

Steaming

In many cases, steaming veg is a far better option than boiling because it preserves their nutrients and texture. Much of the sogginess people associate with foods like broccoli is due to over-boiling it, whereas steaming retains its characteristic crunch. One tip is to add a little squeeze of lemon once you’re finished steaming along with a pinch of salt!

Sautéing

Sautéing refers to frying food quickly in a little oil, and vegetables taste amazing following this process. You can use olive oil or butter – either works to greatly enhance the flavors of peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus. 

A Quick Primer on the Health Benefits

Knowing vegetables are healthy is one thing, but knowing why can give you the motivation you need to get stuck in with some of the options above. Here are some of the benefits of just a few varieties:

Spinach

Spinach is especially high in iron, folate, and vitamin A – great for supporting immune function and skin health.

Carrots

Carrots are vitamin A powerhouses, supporting eye function and the gut due to their high fiber content.

Broccoli

Broccoli is known for its cancer-fighting compounds and its ability to promote digestive health. It’s particularly high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Try these broccoli bites that pack in nutrients in a tasty snack.

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, this short article has offered you some tips and tricks to start enjoying vegetables. Develop a few recipes and experiment, and you’ll say goodbye to your old fears in no time!