Best healthy veg recipes

Our top healthy veg recipes

1. Kale

As a member of the nutritionally renowned cruciferous vegetable family, kale is one of the healthiest veggies around, offering an abundance of vitamin A, K, C and manganese, as well as protein and fibre.

Golden baked gnocchi, hazelnut pesto and vibrant veg such as butternut squash and kale come together in this hearty vegetarian dinner recipe.

2. Spinach

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, while also offering magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. When consumed raw, spinach provides vitamin C, while cooked spinach releases more iron.

Add spinach to your meals with our vibrant pea, spinach & crab risotto. Serve topped with a punchy chilli crab salsa.

3. Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse filled with vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants. When eaten raw, broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, while cooked broccoli is more easily digested for those with a sensitive digestive system.

Fill your tortillas with our high-protein mix of long-stemmed broccoli, roasted red peppers and sirloin steak for a quick meal idea.

4. Sweet potato

Sweet potatoes are rich in gut supportive fibre, vitamin A, C and B6. In particular sweet potatoes offer an abundance of antioxidants which are especially beneficial for reducing inflammation and protecting against ageing.

A vibrant, low-calorie and vegan dinner idea, made with sweet potatoes, red split lentils, coconut milk and plenty of spices, this sweet potato and lentil curry is a winner with everyone

5. Tinned and purée tomatoes

When cooked, such as in a purée or tinned, tomatoes are a major source of the antioxidant lycopene which is fantastic for skin health, as well as being linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. When raw, tomatoes provide more vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate. For this reason, try to include tomatoes in a variety of forms in your diet.

Infuse tinned chopped tomatoes with punchy spices to create this nutritious tomato, lemongrass and rice soup

6. Cauliflower

Serve golden tofu with cauliflower fried rice and plenty of sweet chilli sauce for a low-calorie, veg-heavy, meat-free midweek dinner.

Tracey Raye is the health editor for olive and BBC Good Food. Tracey, MSc, is a registered nutritionist, holding a master’s degree in personalised nutrition. She is passionate about harnessing the power of all things health and well-being in a way that enhances, rather than limits, our lives. She covers our nourishing recipes and collections, oversees our health strategy and stays adrift of the latest health and lifestyle trends in order to bring you the tools and inspiration you need to find what health means for you.