Super-convenient veggies (and two easy recipes!)

Veggies are an important part of balanced eating. For starters, they’re a great source of fiber. Veggies also provide us with many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. All of these nutrients work together to keep us healthy.

Knowing how important veggies are, however, doesn’t help get them into our meals and snacks. It can be hard to find the time to prepare veggies. And many people don’t buy fresh veggies because they don’t think they’ll use them fast enough.

Luckily, it can be easy to include veggies without too much work or waste. Here are some convenient options you can try. The good news: They’re just as good for you as veggies you work harder to prepare!

Clean and chop these fresh veggies ahead of time:

• Bell pepper
• Cucumber
• Carrots
• Broccoli
• Cherry tomatoes
• Leafy greens
• Celery

Tips:

• Look for in-season veggies. The flavor is best, and they’re often more affordable.
• Pre-cut veggies like broccoli or carrots and salad mixes can also save you time.

Keep these frozen veggies in the freezer to cook up quickly when needed:

• Spinach
• Cauliflower rice
• Broccoli
• Pepper and onions
• Brussels sprouts

Tips:

• Plain veggies shouldn’t have any sodium added. Check the nutrition label to be sure you’re buying the plain option.
• Lean toward options that are not in a sauce.
• Try steam-in-bag options for a quick and easy addition to any meal.

Stock your pantry with these canned veggies so you always have something on hand:

• Green beans
• Tomatoes
• Artichoke hearts
• Carrots

Tips:

• Choose “Low Sodium,” “Reduced Sodium,” or “No Salt Added” veggies.
• Rinse canned veggies with water to help remove sodium.

Here are two veggie-packed meals you can create using easy veggies you may already have at home in your pantry, fridge, and freezer: