The 6 Best Anti-Inflammatory Frozen Veggies, According to Dietitians

The 6 Best Anti-Inflammatory Frozen Veggies, According to Dietitians

Inflammation is a widespread concern in the world of wellness, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can help mitigate its negative effects. While some people assume that fresh veggies are the best choice, frozen options are just as nutritious and convenient. Here are the 6 best anti-inflammatory frozen veggies, backed by dietitians and packed with nutrients to support a healthy lifestyle.

The 6 Best Anti-Inflammatory Frozen Veggies

1. Green Beans
   Green beans are often overlooked, but they’re a powerhouse of nutrition. One cup of cooked green beans provides over 10% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help lower inflammation. They also contain a variety of phytonutrients like flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols, which fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

Try using frozen green beans in this Pork & Green Bean Stir-Fry or Dijon Salmon with Green Bean Pilaf.

1. Sweet Potatoes
   While white potatoes have gotten a bad rap, sweet potatoes are packed with two vitamins known for their anti-inflammatory properties: vitamins A and C. One medium sweet potato provides over 100% of the DV for vitamin A. They’re also rich in fiber, which supports a healthy gut and can help reduce inflammation.

Add frozen sweet potatoes to your diet with this Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili or Winter Kale & Quinoa Salad with Avocado.

1. Broccoli and Cauliflower Blend
   Both broccoli and cauliflower are members of the cruciferous vegetable family, making them rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like sulforaphane. This blend is an easy way to load up on these veggies and reap their benefits.

Use frozen broccoli and cauliflower in this Balsamic Broccoli & Cauliflower or Broccoli-Cauliflower Soup.

1. Bell Pepper and Onion Blend
   This mix is a great shortcut for cutting down on chopping and adds a variety of anti-inflammatory compounds to your diet. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while onions contain quercetin, a disease-preventing flavonoid.

Add frozen bell pepper and onion to your diet with this Sheet-Pan Teriyaki Salmon with Green Beans.

1. Leafy Greens
   Frozen spinach isn’t the only leafy green that freezes well. Kale and collard greens are also great options, retaining their texture and flavor even after freezing. These veggies are rich in polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve blood vessel function.

Try using frozen kale in this Vegetarian Potato-Kale Soup or frozen collard greens in this Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar, Collards & Eggs.

1. Green Peas
   Green peas are technically legumes, but they’re nutritionally similar to veggies and offer a range of health benefits. They provide soluble fiber, which supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and can help reduce inflammation.

Add frozen green peas to your diet with this Air-Fryer Spinach-Pepper Egg Bites or blend them into a smoothie for a nutritious and filling snack.

Tips for Adding Veggies to Your Diet

1. Bulk up your soup: Toss in some frozen veggies to boost fiber and antioxidants in your favorite soups.
2. Season and roast: Skip thawing and roast frozen veggies in the oven for a crunchy and flavorful side dish.
3. Just add eggs: Pair frozen veggies with eggs for a healthy and quick meal option.
4. Blend them into a smoothie: Add frozen veggies to your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra nutritional boost.

Conclusion

Frozen veggies are a convenient and affordable way to add more nutrition to your diet. By incorporating these 6 anti-inflammatory frozen veggies into your meals and snacks, you can support a healthy gut, reduce inflammation, and reap a range of health benefits. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to stock up on these nutritious options and get cooking!

FAQs

Q: Are frozen veggies as nutritious as fresh ones?
A: Yes, frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh ones. They’re picked at the peak of ripeness, frozen quickly to preserve nutrients, and can be just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts.

Q: How do I thaw frozen veggies?
A: Most frozen veggies can be thawed by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or by quickly thawing them in cold water.

Q: Can I use frozen veggies in smoothies?
A: Yes, frozen veggies can be blended into smoothies for an extra nutritional boost. Try adding frozen spinach, kale, or broccoli to your favorite smoothie recipe.

Q: How do I cook frozen veggies?
A: Cooking frozen veggies is easy! Simply thaw them first, then sauté, roast, or steam them in the oven or on the stovetop.