Vegetables are packed with all sorts of nutrients that your body needs. Since each vegetable has something different to offer, it’s a good idea for you to include a wide range of vegetables in your diet on a regular basis. Unfortunately, certain vegetables are simply harder to incorporate into the diet because of the way they taste.
Below you will come across 10 of the most hated vegetables across the globe, and you may be one of those people who simply cannot stand them. Alas, many of these vegetables offer superb health benefits. The good news is it’s very much possible to make them lovable, as below you will find suggestions, too, on how to do just that!
1. Okra
Why love it: Okra is high in fiber and very low in calories. Numerous scientific investigations suggest that it is very beneficial for prediabetics and diabetics because it can help in managing blood sugar.
How to love it: Many people hate okra because of its gooey texture. Experts suggest for okra to be sliced thinly and then added to soups, making its texture a lot less noticeable.
2. Brussels Sprouts
Why love them: Brussels sprouts are very good at strengthening the immune system because of their phenomenal vitamin C content. They also supply the body with omega-3 fatty acids that the brain, heart and joints need.
How to love them: The taste of Brussels sprouts can be easily concealed with the help of various herbs like thyme and rosemary. It’s a great idea to have them sautéed with other vegetables.
3. Broccoli
Why love it: Just like Brussels sprouts, broccoli is an immune system booster. It also helps neutralize those poisonous substances in the body, keeping them from wreaking havoc to your health.
How to love it: The thought of eating broccoli alone is enough for many people to feel uneasy. That is why it is best mixed with various types of vegetables, and even meat and fish.
4. Eggplant
Why love it: Potassium, phosphorus, B complex, vitamin C — these are some of the nutrients that you can obtain from every serving of eggplant, whose texture and taste are loathed by many individuals.
How to love it: One of the best ways to make eggplants palatable is by slicing them crosswise, and then topping them with lots of parmesan cheese before baking, grilling or pan frying.
5. Lima Beans
Why love them: Lima beans supply the body with protein. What’s more, they are loaded with folate that is most especially beneficial for pregnant women as it can help reduce birth defect risk.
How to love them: It’s a great idea for you to throw some lima beans to your favorite meat dishes as their texture will surely go very well with them.
6. Kale
Why love it: Kale is high in vitamins A and K, plus it also helps in detoxifying the body. It’s known to promote a healthier cardiovascular system and slow down the process of aging, too, because it’s high in antioxidants.
How to love it: One of the most effective ways to make kale lovable is by turning it into chips. Seasoning kale chips with your favorite herbs or spices can make it very hard for you to turn your back on them.
7. Cauliflower
Why love it: Cauliflower is perfect for anyone who wants to lose weight, regulate blood sugar, lower cancer risk and maintain healthy eyes.
How to love it: Did you know that you can grate cauliflower and then fry it with bits of vegetables? This is usually done by individuals who wish to enjoy fried rice but without actual rice to reduce their caloric intake.
8. Beets
Why love them: Beets help strengthen the bones, boost the immune system, reduce birth defect risk, and lower risk of cancer. They are also great for people with high blood pressure and heart disease.
How to love them: The secret to loving beets is by chopping them up into small pieces, and then adding them to salads or having them sautéed with a bunch of your favorite vegetables.
9. Turnips
Why love them: The nutritional profile of turnips can really impress. Some of the nutrients they contain are calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, K and E.
How to love them: Turnips are easier to welcome into one’s diet if they are roasted with mushrooms. There are some people who prefer to do so with carrots.
10. Bell Peppers
Why love them: Bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C, and that is why they are superb boosters of the immune system and also protectors of the skin from damage and aging.
How to love them: Instantly, bell peppers taste so much better if they are roasted and seasoned with your preferred herbs. Many love adding grated cheese to them.