Green Vegetables

Looking for a list of green vegetables, or wondering why leafy greens are so healthy? Find out all about these nutritious veggies in this 101 guide to green vegetables.

I'm sure you've heard that green vegetables are good for you. Well, some vegetables are healthier than others and green veggies often come out on top.

In this article, we'll explore the world of these nutritional powerhouses and find out ways to eat more greens.

You'll not only get list of green vegetables, but also find out why they're good for you, how to eat more, and facts about them!

If you're interested in learning more about other healthy foods, check out All About Legumes, Cruciferous Vegetables, or a full List of Vegetables A-Z.

Then you can use up your veggies in recipes! Find Vegetarian Recipes.

Jump to:

• Why are Green Vegetables Healthy?
• The Healthiest Green Vegetables
• Ways to Eat More Green Vegetables
• Leafy Green Vegetables
• FAQs
• List of green vegetables
• 💬 Comments

Why are Green Vegetables Healthy?

Green vegetables are brimming with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that promote optimal health.

They are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them ideal for maintaining a balanced diet.

The deep green color of these vegetables signifies their rich chlorophyll content, which aids in detoxification and supports cellular health.

By including green vegetables in your meals, you nourish your body with potent disease-fighting compounds, improve digestion, enhance immune function, and promote radiant skin.

With all those benefits, what's not to love?

The Healthiest Green Vegetables

While all green vegetables offer health benefits, some stand out as true powerhouses. Here are a few of the healthiest green vegetables you should incorporate into your diet:

1. Spinach: Packed with iron, vitamins A and C, and folate, spinach boosts energy levels, supports eye health, and strengthens bones. Try it in Cream of Spinach Soup or Spanakorizo - Greek Spinach Rice.
2. Kale: This nutritional superstar contains an abundance of vitamins A, C, and K, along with powerful antioxidants. It aids in digestion, boosts the immune system, and fights inflammation. Try it in Quick Kale Soup or Spaghetti with Kale and Lemon.
3. Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli supports heart health, aids digestion, and promotes radiant skin. Try it in Broccoli and Cheese Sauce or Broccoli Salad.

Ways to Eat More Green Vegetables

Here are some tips to help you enjoy the benefits of green vegetables in your daily diet:

1. Add green vegetables to your salads: Toss a handful of spinach, kale, or mixed greens into your salads for an instant nutrient boost.
2. Blend them in smoothies: Sneak in a handful of spinach or kale into your favorite smoothie recipes for a vibrant and nutritious twist. Most mornings, my kids and I start the day with a super simple smoothie made with a handful of frozen spinach, a banana and water - so easy, so nutritious.
3. Sauté with garlic and olive oil: Lightly sauté leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard with garlic and a drizzle of olive oil for a quick and flavorful side dish. You can make this simple side dish with so many veggies!
4. Make green vegetable soups: Whip up nourishing soups by blending greens like broccoli or spinach with vegetable broth, herbs, and spices. Check out 30 Delicious Vegan Soup Recipes.
5. Roast them for crispy goodness: Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus make delicious and healthy side dishes that the whole family will enjoy. Try Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar.

For more recipe ideas, your can Find Vegetarian Recipes You'll Love.

Leafy Green Vegetables

Leafy green vegetables are a treasure trove of nutrients. Here are some popular choices to incorporate into your meals:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Swiss chard
• Romaine lettuce
• Arugula
• Collard greens
• Cabbage
• Watercress
• Mustard greens

FAQs

List of green vegetables

Artichokes

Healthy artichokes are unique green vegetables known for their intriguing shape and delicious flavor. They consist of tightly packed leaves surrounding a tender heart, which is the prized edible portion.

Artichokes are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.

To enjoy artichokes, you can steam or boil them until the leaves are tender and then scrape off the edible flesh with your teeth. The heart is the most tender and flavorful part, and it can be enjoyed as is or used in various dishes such as salads, dips, or even stuffed with flavorful fillings.

We love using canned artichoke hearts in these battered fried Artichoke Hearts (Air Fryer, Fried or Baked). Or try Spinach and Artichoke Pasta for double the green vegetables in one dish!

Arugula

Also known as rocket or salad rocket, arugula is a leafy green vegetable with a peppery and slightly nutty flavor. It features delicate, elongated, serrated leaves.

Arugula is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium.

Arugula is commonly used in salads (try this Persian Rocca Salad), where its firey flavor adds a refreshing kick. It can also be used as a topping for pizzas, blended into pesto, or added to sandwiches and wraps for a burst of flavor.

Asparagus

Tasty asparagus is a green vegetable characterized by its long, slender spears with tightly closed, pointed tops. It is prized for its delicate flavor and tender texture.

Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and antioxidants. It supports healthy digestion, aids in detoxification, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Asparagus can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be roasted, grilled, steamed, or sautéed and is often served as a side dish or added to salads, risottos, or pasta dishes.

Try it in Air Fryer Asparagus or Sweet Potato Frittata with Asparagus.

Bok choy

Also known as Chinese cabbage, bok choy is a leafy green vegetable commonly used in Asian cuisine. It features crisp, white stalks and dark green, leafy tops.

It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber.

Bok choy can be enjoyed in stir-fries, soups, and sautés, where it's crunchy stalks and tender leaves add a delightful contrast of textures.

You can try it in Garlic Bok Choy.

Broccoli

A healthy veg, broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that consists of dense clusters of dark green florets on thick stalks. It offers a delightful balance of taste and texture with a slightly bitter yet earthy flavor.

This green vegetable is highly regarded for its numerous health benefits. It is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

This versatile vegetable can be steamed, roasted, stir-fried, or added to salads, soups, and pasta dishes, making it a popular and nutritious addition to various recipes. Try it in Broccoli and Cheese Sauce.

Brussels sprouts

A holiday classic, brussels sprouts are miniature cabbage-like vegetables that grow in clusters on a stalk. They have a distinctive taste that can be described as nutty, earthy, and slightly bitter.

Brussels sprouts are packed with essential nutrients and offer several health benefits. They are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

Try them roasted, sautéed, steamed, or used in stir-fries, salads, or side dishes.

Enjoy them in Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Goat Cheese or Brussels Sprout Pasta.

Cabbage

Although it comes in many shapes and varieties, cabbage is a leafy green vegetable with tightly packed leaves forming a round or elongated shape. It has a crisp texture and a slightly sweet and earthy flavor.

Cabbage is highly nutritious and offers several health benefits. It is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

You can enjoy it raw in salads, fermented as sauerkraut, or cooked in stir-fries, soups, stews, and slaws.

Our favorite ways to enjoy this green vegetable is in Vegan Cabbage Rolls or Cabbage Soup.

Celery

A popular vegetable, celery is a crunchy and refreshing green vegetable that is well-known for its low calorie content. It features long, fibrous stalks with a mild and slightly bitter flavor.

It is packed with vitamins A, K, and C, as well as antioxidants and dietary fiber.

Celery is often enjoyed raw as a healthy snack or used as a flavor enhancer in salads, soups, and stews. Try it in Celery and Blue Cheese Soup.

Cucumber

Cooling cucumber is a refreshing and hydrating green vegetable with a mild, crisp texture and a slightly sweet flavor. It is typically cylindrical or elongated with a smooth green skin.

They are low in calories and high in water content, making them an excellent choice for hydration. They are also a good source of vitamins K and C, as well as antioxidants.

You can try them raw in salads, sandwiches, or as a refreshing snack. Cucumbers are widely used in various culinary traditions and are a staple in salads and refreshing beverages like cucumber-infused water or cucumber-based cocktails. Try them in Cucumber Collins Cocktail, Lemon and Cucumber Cake or even in a Cucumber Lemon Granita.

Dandelion greens

Yes! Dandelion greens may be considered weeds in some gardens, but they are edible! Make sure to avoid areas that are frequented by animals or may have been sprayed with pesticides or chemicals, and wash them well.

These leafy greens have a slightly bitter taste and are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants.

You can enjoy them in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or blended into green smoothies, or in Dandelion Green Soup.

Edamame (immature soybeans)

A type of green vegetables, Edamame beans are young soybeans that are harvested before they fully mature. These vibrant green pods contain tender beans inside.

These beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins C and K, and minerals such as iron and calcium. They promote muscle growth and repair, support heart health, and provide an array of essential nutrients.

Edamame beans are commonly boiled or steamed and served as a snack or appetizer.

Simply sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt, and you have a delightful and nutritious finger food. They can also be added to stir-fries, salads, or used as a protein-rich ingredient in vegetarian dishes. You can try them in these spicy edamame beans.

Fava Beans / Broad Beans

Also known as broad beans, fava beans are large green beans enclosed in sturdy pods. These beans have a buttery and slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with various dishes.

Fava beans are rich in fiber, protein, vitamins A and C, iron, and potassium.

Fava beans require a bit of preparation before consumption as the outer skin of the beans is quite tough. After shelling and blanching, you can enjoy them in salads, purees, soups, or even as a standalone side dish.

Learn all about them in this comprehensive guide: Broad Beans: Prep, Cooking + Recipes. Then try them in Broad Bean Risotto or Broad Bean Bruschetta (Fava Beans).

Green beans

Also known as string beans or snap beans, green beans are long, slender pods with small seeds inside. They are widely enjoyed for their crisp texture and vibrant green color.

They are a good source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate.

Green beans can be steamed, boiled, stir-fried, or used in salads, casseroles, and side dishes.

Try them in Green Beans Almondine or Microwave Green Bean Casserole.

Green bell peppers

Also known as capsicum, green bell peppers are crisp and refreshing vegetables that are widely used in cooking. They have a mild and slightly tangy flavor that complements a variety of dishes.

Green bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. They support immune function, promote healthy vision, and contribute to overall well-being.

Green bell peppers can be enjoyed raw in salads, sliced as a crunchy snack, or added to stir-fries, fajitas, or stuffed pepper recipes.

You're sure to find some recipes you'll love in this list of Green Pepper Recipes.

Green chili peppers

With varieties such as jalapeno, hatch chile, serrano and poblano peppers, green chili peppers are known for their fiery heat and distinctive flavor. They come in various shapes and sizes, and each variety carries its own level of spiciness.

These peppers are a rich source of capsaicin, a compound that provides numerous health benefits, including pain relief, improved metabolism, and enhanced cardiovascular health. They are also high in vitamins A and C.

Green chili peppers can be used to add a kick to salsas, sauces, and spicy dishes. Be mindful of their heat level when using them in recipes, and adjust the quantity according to your desired spice tolerance.

Green lentils

These small, disk-shaped legumes are a staple in many cuisines. These nutritious legumes are packed with plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate.

They offer numerous health benefits, including supporting heart health, aiding in digestion, and providing sustained energy.

Green lentils have a mildly nutty flavor and a firm texture that holds up well in various dishes.

They can be cooked and used as a protein-rich addition to salads, soups, or stews. Green lentils are also excellent in vegetarian burgers or as a filling for wraps and grain bowls. Try these Green Lentil Burgers.

Green olives

Olives are a tangy and briny addition to many Mediterranean dishes. These olives are harvested before they fully ripen, giving them their distinctive green color.

Green olives are packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, which contribute to heart health and provide a source of antioxidants. They also contain vitamins E and K, iron, and fiber.

You can enjoy green olives as a snack on their own or use them in various culinary creations.

They can add a burst of flavor to your salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, and tapenades.

You can try them in Greek Potato Salad.

Kale

Popular kale is a leafy green vegetable characterized by its dark green, curly leaves and slightly bitter and earthy flavor.

It is considered a nutritional powerhouse and has gained popularity as a superfood. This vegetable is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

This versatile vegetable can be used in salads, smoothies, stir-fries, soups, or baked into crispy kale chips. Try Kale Chips, Kale Soup, or Kale Green Muffins or Apple Kale Cake with Apple Icing.

Leek

Leeks are a member of the onion family and have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to traditional onions.

They feature long, slender white bulbs that transition into dark green leaves, and they are commonly used in soups, stews, and various cooked dishes to add a subtle and savory depth of flavor.

Learn about these leafy green vegetables in What are Leeks? Then try them in Leek Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing or a classic Potato Leek Soup.

Lettuce

There are many varieties of lettuce. It is a versatile leafy green vegetable that serves as the foundation for countless salads and sandwiches. It comes in different varieties, including green leaf, romaine, and butterhead.

Lettuce is low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and dietary fiber.

You'll love serving it up in these 28 Tasty Healthy Salad Recipes, or use it in Lettuce Soup.

Mustard greens

Mustard greens are leafy green vegetables that pack a spicy punch.

These greens are known for their distinctive peppery flavor and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber.

Mustard greens can be enjoyed raw in salads for a peppery kick or cooked in stir-fries, soups, or sautés. They pair well with other robust flavors and can be combined with garlic, ginger, or chili for added depth.

You can find out how to cook mustard greens.

Okra

Pentagon-shaped okra is a unique green vegetable that is widely used in Southern cuisine and various international dishes. It has a distinctive elongated shape and a slightly slimy texture when cooked.

Okra is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as stir-fried, grilled, or added to stews and curries. Its unique texture lends itself well to thickening soups or acting as a natural thickener in gumbo.

If you're wondering what to make with okra, check out this list of Okra Recipes.

Peas

A very popular green vegetable, peas are small, spherical green vegetables that are encased in a pod. They have a sweet and slightly starchy flavor.

They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Peas support eye health, boost the immune system, and promote healthy digestion.

You can enjoy them in various ways, including being boiled, steamed, sautéed, or added to soups, stews, salads, or as a side dish.

You can try them in Easy Pea Soup, Creamy Pea Salad, or even Sweet Vanilla Pea Cake with Lemon Frosting!

Scallions

Also known as spring onions or green onions, scallions are versatile vegetables that add a mild onion flavor to dishes. They have a long green stalk with a white bulb at the base.

They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.

Use your scallions as a garnish, chopped and added to salads, or incorporated into stir-fries, soups, and omelettes.

You can use them both cooked and raw preparations, offering a subtle and refreshing flavor to your culinary creations.

Wondering: Is Onion a Vegetable?

Spinach

Whether enjoyed cooked or raw, spinach is a versatile leafy green vegetable with dark green leaves. It is known for its slightly bitter taste and tender texture.

It is highly nutritious and rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and folate. Spinach promotes healthy skin, improves digestion, and supports bone health.

Spinach can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked in various dishes such as sautés, stir-fries, soups, and smoothies.

You can try it in Spinach Goat Cheese Pasta or Spinach and Artichoke Pas

Swiss chard

Swiss chard is a leafy green vegetable with vibrant and colorful stems.

It is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium and potassium.

The leaves of Swiss chard have a mild and slightly earthy flavor. Some varieties have colorful stems that add visual appeal to your dishes.

Swiss chard can be enjoyed sautéed as a side dish, added to soups and stews, or used as a nutritious wrap for fillings.

You can try it in Sauteed Rainbow Chard.

Watercress

Tender watercress is a leafy green vegetable with a refreshing and peppery taste.

It is highly nutritious, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and calcium.

You can enjoy it in salads, sandwiches, or blended into soups and smoothies.

Give it a try in Grapefruit Watercress Donuts with Grapefruit Pearls! Or good old Watercress Soup.

Zucchini (Courgette)

Also called courgette, zucchini is a versatile summer squash that features cylindrical or oblong-shaped green vegetables with smooth skin. It has a mild flavor and a tender, watery texture.

Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and potassium.

You can grill, roast, or sautée it. You can use it in soups, stews, stir-fries, and vegetable noodles (zoodles).

Try it in Zucchini and Corn Fritters, Zucchini Chips, or Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins. You can also try these 26 Tasty Courgette Recipes.