Boost Your Vegetable Consumption - Bitter Vs. Sweet

“Don’t forget to eat all of your veggies on your plate!” The clean-your-plate club is one childhood memory that many of us will never forget. As we grow into adults, we have more freedom in what we choose and unfortunately, vegetables are often left off of the plate. Whether lack of vegetable consumption is due to the taste or convenience factor, there are ways to boost your consumption without compromising your taste buds.

When choosing different vegetables, keep in mind your preference for bitter and/or sweet taste. There are many vegetables with a natural sweetness that can satisfy a sugar craving. Actually, roasting vegetables in general will help bring out their natural sweet flavors! Check out the lists below of the least to most bitter vegetables and also those with a bit more sweetness! Choose your favorites or try something new based on your taste preferences.

Bitter Vegetables (from least to most bitter)
-Spinach
-Asparagus
-Broccoli
-Brussels Sprouts
-Belgian Endive
-Swiss Chard
-Collard Greens
-Kale
-Radicchio
-Dandelion Greens


Sweet Vegetables (from least to most sweetest)
-Red Radishes
-Green Cabbage
-Turnips
-Parsnips
-Rutabagas
-Peas
-Carrots
-Sweet Potatoes
-Beets
-Sweet Onions
-Corn
-Winter Squash
-Yams

Knowing the levels of bitterness and sweetness of vegetables can help you to choose those that you actually enjoy eating! Give a new vegetable a try and leave a comment to let us know your thoughts!

Stay tuned for next week's blog, which will feature some of the best ways to flavor your vegetables!


Guest post written with the assistance of Biancha Jackson, a current Cedar Crest Distance Dietetic Intern.