Parsnips: A Versatile and Nutritious Superfood

Nutritional Value of Parsnips

Parsnips are a nutritional powerhouse, boasting an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. One medium parsnip (about 150 grams) provides:

In addition to these macronutrients, parsnips are also rich in:

The mild and slightly sweet flavor of parsnips makes them a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes. They can be:

Roasted: Cut into chunks and roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful side dish.
Mashed: Boiled or steamed and mashed with butter, milk, and seasonings for a creamy and comforting side or topping.
Fried: Sliced into thin chips and fried until golden brown for a crispy and addictive snack.
Soups and stews: Added to soups and stews for a boost of nutrition and a touch of sweetness.
Salads: Thinly sliced and tossed into salads for added crunch and sweetness.

To showcase the culinary versatility of parsnips, here are two delicious recipes:

Ingredients: \t- 1 pound parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks \t- 2 tablespoons olive oil \t- 1 tablespoon honey \t- 1 teaspoon dried thyme \t- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: \t1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). \t2. In a large bowl, combine parsnip chunks, olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper. \t3. Spread parsnips on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.

Ingredients: \t- 2 tablespoons butter \t- 1 onion, chopped \t- 2 cloves garlic, minced \t- 1 pound parsnips, peeled and chopped \t- 2 apples, peeled and chopped \t- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth \t- 1/2 cup milk or cream \t- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: \t1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. \t2. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. \t3. Add parsnips and apples and cook for 5 minutes. \t4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. \t5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until parsnips are tender. \t6. Puree soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth. \t7. Stir in milk or cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Each 1 medium of Parsnip contains 70 calories.