How to Actually Eat Your Vegetables in the Winter

Written by: Mairead Rodgers Russell, Registered Dieitian

If you have a harder time eating vegetables in the winter months than you do the rest of the year, you’re not alone!

Many people find it difficult! When it’s cold and blustery outside, we just want foods that are warm and comforting, not necessarily crunchy and refreshing. 

Vegetables are a key part of a healthy diet. They’re high in fibre, which is great for digestive health, heart health, stable blood sugars, and keeping your energy levels stable. They also provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. Especially during cold and flu season, we want to make sure we’re meeting our nutrition needs so our immune systems are fully functioning!

Maybe a salad or raw veggies doesn’t sound appealing – that’s ok!

Try roasting your veggies
Cut them into even pieces and toss with olive oil and your favourite seasonings. Roast them until they’re soft – hard vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots will take much longer to cook than soft vegetables like peppers. 

Lean into soups
Vegetables are so easy to add to soups, whether they’re broth-based or pureed. Simply increase the vegetables in your favourite recipes, or try adding different vegetables where it makes sense. Frozen vegetables can be an especially budget-friendly option here, since they’ll become soft in the soup anyway. 

Add them to your favourite comfort foods
Making a casserole? You can probably add or increase the vegetables in it without altering the taste too much. Spaghetti sauce? Throw some dark leafy greens, peppers, or carrots in. Love mac and cheese? Check out recipes that use squash or pumpkin in the sauce. There are so many options!

When it comes to vegetables in the winter, think beyond raw veggies and salads. Explore cozier options to keep up your healthy habits all year round!

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