turnip green

Turnip Green

Turnip greens are the leafy tops of the turnip plant, offering a slightly bitter, peppery flavor that mellows with cooking. These vibrant green leaves have a slightly coarse texture when raw but become tender and succulent when cooked. Often sold in bunches, fresh turnip greens are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and minerals. Discover the versatile uses of fresh turnip greens, from Southern-style cooking to healthy side dishes. Whether you're looking for nutritious greens recipes or exploring the best way to cook turnip greens, this humble vegetable delivers both flavor and health benefits.

Common Uses

  • Simmer turnip greens with ham hocks or bacon for a classic Southern side dish. Slow cooking mellows the bitterness and infuses the greens with smoky flavor. A touch of vinegar or hot sauce adds a delightful tang.
  • Sauté turnip greens with garlic and olive oil for a quick and healthy side. This simple preparation highlights the natural peppery flavor of the greens. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish.
  • Add chopped turnip greens to soups and stews for extra nutrients and a slightly bitter, earthy flavor. They pair well with beans, potatoes, and other root vegetables. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
  • Incorporate turnip greens into frittatas, quiches, or omelets for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast or brunch. The greens add a vibrant color and a slightly bitter counterpoint to the richness of the eggs and cheese.
  • Blend cooked turnip greens into smoothies for a boost of vitamins and minerals. The bitterness is masked by other fruits and vegetables, making it a great way to sneak in extra greens into your diet.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

22.0kcal (1.1%)

Protein

1.3g (2.6%)

Carbs

5.0g (1.82%)

Sugars

0.6g (1.2%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immune function, vision, and blood clotting.
  • Excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
  • Contains antioxidants, such as glucosinolates, which may help protect against cellular damage.
  • Good source of calcium, important for bone health and muscle function.
  • Provides folate (vitamin B9), crucial for cell growth and development.
  • Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Storage Tips

To keep turnip greens fresh, rinse them thoroughly and wrap them loosely in paper towels before placing them in a plastic bag. Store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for up to a week. Avoid storing them near ethylene-producing fruits like apples or bananas, as this can cause them to spoil faster. For longer storage, blanch the greens in boiling water for a few minutes, then freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 8-12 months.

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