When it comes to healthy leafy greens, most of us rely on the basics like romaine, leaf lettuce, and spinach. We eat these week after week, and while all of these provide health benefits, there is a huge selection of leafy greens in the produce aisle that you could be missing! Shaking things up can help keep things fun and interesting in the kitchen while also diversifying your diet.
We’ve all heard that it’s important to eat those healthy greens! And that age-old recommendation has merit! Leafy green vegetables are a total nutrition powerhouse. They provide plant-based calcium, iron and magnesium, plus vitamins A, C and K (vitamin K is used for blood clotting and bone health).
If you don’t like the taste of one variety, chances are you can find an alternative. It might also be a matter of preparation method, so don’t hesitate to do some experimenting. Here are some of our favorite healthy greens! Plus, we’ve included simple ways you can try incorporating them into your regular rotation:
Arugula
Swapping arugula for romaine is a great way to spice up a salad (literally!). This leafy green has a peppery bite and delicate texture. It pairs perfectly with a light citrus vinaigrette and some shaved parmesan cheese (aka – the ultimate no hassle dinner side salad). You could also throw it on top of pizza for a little extra crunch. Arugula is a cruciferous vegetable, like its cousins broccoli and cauliflower, and therefore has added disease-preventative effects.
Lacinato Kale
You might already be familiar with traditional “curly” kale that has become a grocery store staple in recent years. Lacinato or “dino” kale is the one that has a long flat leaves with a bumpy texture and newer to the scene. Add it to your favorite soup or stew near the end of cooking time for a pop of bright green color and an extra element of texture. Cooking kale mellows its bitter flavor, so a quick sauté in some olive oil with a bit of lemon juice is a delicious way to enjoy this nutrient powerhouse.
Swiss Chard
This leafy green typically has a gorgeous bright pink or yellow stem. Due to the large size of the leaves, chard makes a nice swap for tortillas (a great low-carbohydrate option!). For example, use the leaves to wrap up some hummus and vegetables. You can also sauté the delicate leaves, as they cook up quickly. The stems are full of nutrition so chop them and sauté first with some onion and garlic for an amazing side dish ( or we’ve been known to add in some chickpeas for a plant-focused meal.
Watercress
Watercress is a cruciferous vegetable with long stems and small, circular leaves. It makes a great sandwich topper in place of traditional leaf lettuce for a fun presentation. The bright, peppery taste does well with just a bit of vinegar and olive oil. You can also drop into soups just before serving for a burst of flavor. One of our favorite salads includes watercress, cucumbers, and radishes – fresh and delicious!
Bok Choy
Bok Choy is a type of Chinese cabbage with a bright white stem surrounded by dark green leaves. It’s most commonly used in Asian cuisines including stir-fries and soups like ramen, but feel free to add it to salads and slaws. We love this simple recipe for sheet pan Bok Choy – simply place quartered Bok Choy on parchment-lined sheet pan and toss with freshly grated ginger and sesame oil. Roast at 350° F until softened and serve with fresh lime wedges.