If you're looking for a low-calorie vegetable that's packed with nutrients, turnip greens may be just the thing. One ounce of turnip greens (without salt, frozen, drained, cooked, boiled) contains just 8 calories, making it a great addition to any diet.

But turnip greens are more than just low in calories. They are also rich in a variety of important nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, iron, and fiber.

In this article, we'll explore what turnip greens are, their nutritional benefits, how to cook with them, and more.

What are turnip greens?

Turnip greens are the leafy green tops of the turnip plant. They are often discarded when the turnip root is used in cooking or eaten raw, but they are perfectly edible and packed with nutrients. Turnip greens come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but generally have a slightly bitter taste and a chewy texture. Turnip greens are often used in Southern cuisine and are a popular addition to dishes like collard greens and mixed greens.

Calories in 1 oz turnip greens

One ounce of turnip greens (without salt, frozen, drained, cooked, boiled) contains just 8 calories.

How many nutrients are in turnip greens?

One ounce of turnip greens (without salt, frozen, drained, cooked, boiled) is a great source of several important nutrients. Here is a breakdown of the nutrients in one ounce of turnip greens: - Vitamin A: 44% of the daily value - Vitamin C: 26% of the daily value - Vitamin K: 126% of the daily value - Calcium: 5% of the daily value - Iron: 5% of the daily value - Fiber: 2% of the daily value

Health benefits of turnip greens

Turnip greens offer a variety of health benefits, including: - Improved digestion due to their high fiber content - Better bone health due to their calcium and vitamin K content - Reduced risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes due to their antioxidant content - Improved eye health due to their vitamin A content - Better overall immune health due to their vitamin C content Adding turnip greens to your diet can be a great way to boost your nutrient intake and improve your overall health.

Ways to cook turnip greens

Turnip greens can be cooked in a variety of ways, including: - Sautéed with garlic and olive oil - Boiled and served with bacon - Added to soups and stews - Blended into smoothies - Used as a base for salads Experiment with different cooking methods to find the one that works best for your taste preference.

What are the side effects of turnip greens?

While turnip greens are generally safe to eat, they may cause side effects in some people. Some people may experience digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea after consuming turnip greens. Additionally, turnip greens contain oxalates, which can interfere with calcium absorption and may be harmful to people with kidney disease. If you experience any adverse reactions after eating turnip greens, speak to your healthcare provider.

How to choose and store turnip greens?

When choosing turnip greens, look for fresh, crisp leaves that are free from wilting or yellowing. To store turnip greens, wrap them in damp paper towels and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week.

Can turnip greens help in weight loss?

Due to their low calorie and high nutrient content, turnip greens can be a great addition to a weight loss diet. By replacing high calorie, low nutrient foods with turnip greens, you can lower your overall calorie intake while still getting the nutrients your body needs. However, it's important to remember that weight loss ultimately comes down to creating a calorie deficit, so simply adding turnip greens to your diet won't lead to weight loss if you are consuming too many calories overall.

Recipes with turnip greens

Looking for some inspiration on how to cook with turnip greens? Here are a few recipes to try: - Sautéed Turnip Greens with Garlic and Olive Oil - Turnip Green Soup with Bacon - Turnip Green and Black Bean Salad - Turnip Green Smoothie - Braised Turnip Greens Get creative in the kitchen and try out new ways to incorporate turnip greens into your meals.

Conclusion

Turnip greens are a versatile, nutritious vegetable that can be a great addition to any diet. Whether you chop them up and add them to soups and stews or use them as the base for a salad, turnip greens offer a wide range of health benefits and are a great way to boost your nutrient intake. So next time you're at the grocery store, consider picking up a bunch of turnip greens and experimenting with new ways to cook with them.