Food, nutrition, recipes and more for healthy living.
Let Brussels Sprouts Become an Important Part of Your Diet
2 min read
Brussels sprouts used to be a deeply unpopular vegetable, but it's made quite a comeback in the past decade.
This cruciferous vegetable is related to cabbage and broccoli and is a popular addition to salads or roasted with balsamic vinegar as a side dish. Let's look at the many health benefits of Brussels sprouts and delicious ways to prepare them.
Health benefits of Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts have many health benefits: they help fight and prevent cancer because they are filled with antioxidants, and they help the body get rid of toxins efficiently. Brussels sprouts also have anti-inflammatory properties, which is good for overall health and could also help improve heart health.
They are high in vitamins K and C and have very little fat, no saturated fat and very few calories. They are also a very good source of numerous other nutrients including folate, vitamin A, potassium, vitamin B6 and thiamin (vitamin B1) and a good source of phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin E, calcium and niacin. One serving is a half cup cooked or one cup raw.
How to cook Brussels sprouts
Before you cook your Brussels sprouts, wash and clean them thoroughly. It is best to wash them under running water or in a bowl of water because dirt or insects can get stuck in the layers of leaves. Don’t forget to remove any yellowish colored outer leaves.
Quartering or halving the sprouts helps them cook faster and more evenly. Overcooking can lead of a loss of nutrients, so steaming is a great way to prepare Brussels sprouts.
Here are a few recipes you can try to get more Brussels sprouts into your diet:
This is a super-easy recipe with a clear, simple way to enjoy Brussels sprouts. Topping them with almonds or other nuts add a fun crunch. A squeeze of lemon or lime on the Brussels sprouts right before serving adds flavor.
In this recipe, steamed Brussels sprouts are smashed then roasted to crisp perfection perfect for dipping. A healthier version of honey mustard, the dip includes protein-rich Greek yogurt and uses less honey than traditional recipes.
Simply shave and roast the Brussels sprouts, thinly slice the apples, then toss with your favorite vinaigrette alongside cranberries, pistachios and freshly grated parmesan. Tossed in a vinaigrette, it’s a lighter salad dressing option featuring heart-healthy oil instead.
Photo Credit: johnsu01
Related:
