How to Make Veggies Exciting
- Bridgette Matthewson
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants - exactly what your body needs for long-term health.
We all know that vegetables are good for us, but let’s be honest vegetables often get a bad reputation for being boring, bland or repetitive.
The truth is, vegetables can be anything but boring! With the right techniques, you can make them flavourful and fun. Whether you’re cooking for yourself; your family or trying to win over picky eaters, here are some creative ways to make vegetables the highlight of your meal.
1. Boost Flavour with Herbs, Spices and Sauces
A little seasoning can transform even the simplest vegetable dish.
Spices: Try paprika on roasted carrots; cumin with chickpeas or chili flakes on sautéed spinach.
Fresh herbs: Parsley or thyme can brighten any plate. Try adding some rocket or basil to a pizza or coriander to a curry.
Simple sauces: A drizzle of tahini; pesto or yogurt-garlic dressing instantly upgrades veggies. Just remember to use these sparingly as most sauces can add additional calories to a meal.
Tip: Pair flavours you already love with vegetables. For example, if you enjoy garlic and chili on pasta, try them on sautéed green beans.
2. Switch Up Your Cooking Method
If you only steam vegetables, you’re missing out on a world of flavour and texture.
Roast for caramelized sweetness: Carrots; pumpkin and bell peppers are amazing roasted.
Grill for smokiness: Zucchini; mushrooms and eggplant taste fantastic on the grill.
Stir-fry for crunch: Mix colorful veggies with soy sauce, ginger and sesame oil for a quick, tasty dish.
Blend veggies into everyday meals: Sauté onions, carrots, zucchini and tomatoes. Blend them into a smooth, rich sauce - great for pasta or pizza bases.
3. Make Vegetables Fun to Eat
Presentation matters, especially for kids (and adults who eat with their eyes first).
Rainbow plates: Combine colourful vegetables for a visually appealing meal.
Dips and platters: Serve raw veggie sticks with hummus; tzatziki or guacamole.
Get creative with shapes: Spiralized zucchini noodles, carrot ribbons or beetroot slaw add fun textures.
4. Explore Global Flavours
Different cuisines celebrate vegetables in unique and exciting ways. Exploring different flavour profiles is a simple way to keep meals exciting and expand your palate.
Mediterranean: Roast eggplant with olive oil and top with feta and herbs.
Asian: Stir-fry green beans with garlic; soy and sesame oil.
Mexican: Grill corn and top with lime juice; chili powder and a sprinkle of cheese.
5. Get the Family Involved
Making vegetables exciting isn’t just about taste, it’s also about the experience.
Let kids choose a “new veggie of the week.”
Try build-your-own veggie-loaded bowls with rice; quinoa or noodles topped with colorful veggies and proteins.
Homemade pizzas topped with mushrooms; peppers and spinach are always a winner.
Vegetables don’t need to be bland or feel like an afterthought. By experimenting with flavours; cooking methods and creative ideas, you can make them an enjoyable (and even exciting) part of every meal. Remember: the more fun and flavourful veggies become, the easier it is to include them in your daily routine for better health and happier taste buds.
Want to enjoy healthier meals without the stress of figuring it all out on your own? Book a consultation today and let’s create a personalised plan that makes vegetables (and healthy eating) exciting for you!
We have branches in Lonehill, at Concourse Medical Centre, and in Broadacres, at The Paddock Medical Centre.
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