If you're looking for a convenient and nutritious way to get a daily serving of vegetables, look no further than 2/3 cup (90 g) of frozen mixed vegetables. With only 60 calories per serving, frozen mixed vegetables are a great addition to any diet.
Not only are frozen mixed vegetables low in calories, but they're also packed with important vitamins and minerals. A typical serving of frozen mixed vegetables contains a variety of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium. Plus, since frozen vegetables are harvested and frozen at their peak ripeness, they often contain more nutrients than fresh vegetables that have been sitting on grocery store shelves.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of frozen mixed vegetables and share some creative ways to incorporate them into your meals.
Small Serving, Big Nutrition
Don't be fooled by their small size, frozen mixed vegetables pack a big nutritional punch. As mentioned earlier, they're loaded with essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health. Additionally, they're low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great option for weight management. In fact, studies have shown that people who eat more vegetables tend to have a lower BMI and a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. So, don't underestimate the power of a small serving of frozen mixed vegetables.
Get Your Daily Veggie Fix
Most health experts recommend that adults consume at least 2-3 cups of vegetables per day. However, according to the CDC, only 1 in 10 adults meet this recommendation. Frozen mixed vegetables can help you bridge the gap and get the veggies you need to support optimal health. And since they're already washed, chopped, and ready to go, they make it easier than ever to add more vegetables to your diet. Simply pop them in the microwave or steam them on the stove, and you've got a nutritious side dish or a tasty addition to your favorite recipes.
Convenient and Budget-Friendly
Another big advantage of frozen mixed vegetables is their convenience and affordability. They're available year-round at most grocery stores and can be stored in the freezer for months, which means you always have access to fresh veggies without having to leave your home. Plus, they're often less expensive than fresh vegetables, making them an appealing option for those on a budget. And since you only need a small amount to get a big nutritional bang for your buck, they're a great value.
Versatile Addition to Your Meal
Frozen mixed vegetables are a highly versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. Add them to soups, stews, and casseroles for added flavor and nutrition. Toss them with pasta or rice for a hearty and healthy side dish. Or blend them into smoothies for a quick and easy snack or breakfast option. With so many options, it's easy to incorporate frozen mixed vegetables into your meals and snacks in creative and tasty ways.
Perfect for Busy Days
On busy days when you don't have time to prep or cook fresh vegetables, frozen mixed vegetables can be a lifesaver. Simply grab a bag of pre-made veggies from the freezer and cook them up in a flash for an instant side dish or meal component. This is especially helpful for those who want to eat healthy but don't have the time or energy to cook elaborate meals. With frozen mixed vegetables, you can still get the nutrition you need without spending hours in the kitchen.
Healthy Snack Alternative
If you're looking for a healthy snack option, look no further than frozen mixed vegetables. They're a delicious and satisfying way to satisfy your hunger and get some extra nutrients into your diet. Simply steam them up or pop them in the microwave, and you've got a tasty and nutritious snack that will keep you feeling full and energized. Plus, since there are so many different vegetable varieties in each bag, you're getting a wide range of vitamins and minerals with each serving.
Suitable for Various Dietary Needs
Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or following a specific dietary plan like keto, paleo, or Whole30, frozen mixed vegetables can be a great addition to your meal planning. They're naturally free of gluten, dairy, and other common allergens, so they're a safe choice for most people. And since they're low in calories and high in fiber, they're a great option for those looking to lose weight or support healthy digestion. So, no matter what your dietary needs are, frozen mixed vegetables can fit into your meal plan.
Great for Weight Management
If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, frozen mixed vegetables can be a helpful tool. Since they're low in calories and high in fiber, they can help you feel full and satisfied without adding a lot of calories or fat to your diet. Plus, since they're so easy to prepare, they can make healthy meal planning a breeze. Whether you're cooking up a big batch of soup or tossing them into a stir-fry, frozen mixed vegetables can help you stay on track with your health goals.
Ideal for Meal Prep
If you like to meal prep or batch cook your meals, frozen mixed vegetables can be a valuable addition to your routine. They're easy to store in the freezer and can be quickly cooked up when you're ready to eat. You can add them to salads, stir-fries, soups, and other dishes to add bulk and nutrition. And since they're already washed and chopped, they're a time-saving option for those who want to eat healthy but don't have the time to do a lot of prep work.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Last but not least, frozen mixed vegetables are packed with important vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health. A single serving contains significant amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium, as well as smaller amounts of other important nutrients like iron, calcium, and folate. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy way to add more nutrition to your meals, don't overlook frozen mixed vegetables. They may be small, but they're mighty!
Eating vegetables is a powerful tool for overall health and disease prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Frozen Mixed Vegetables
1. What are frozen mixed vegetables?
Frozen mixed vegetables are a combination of different vegetables that have been prepped, cut, and packaged for convenience. Most commonly, they include a blend of carrots, corn, peas, and green beans, but other vegetables may be included depending on the brand.
2. Are frozen mixed vegetables healthy?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables are a healthy choice for adding more veggies to your diet. They are often preserved at the peak of their freshness, which means they retain their nutritional value. They are also typically low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
3. How do you cook frozen mixed vegetables?
There are several ways to cook frozen mixed vegetables, including boiling, steaming, microwaving, or sautéing. To boil, place the vegetables and water in a pot and boil for 5-7 minutes. To steam, put the vegetables in a steamer basket and steam for 5-10 minutes. To microwave, place the vegetables in a microwave-safe dish, add water, and cook for 5-7 minutes. To sauté, heat a pan with oil or butter, add the vegetables and seasoning, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. How long can you keep frozen mixed vegetables?
Frozen mixed vegetables can be kept in the freezer for 8-12 months. Always check the expiration date on the package before consuming and make sure to store them in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn.
5. How many calories are in frozen mixed vegetables?
A 2/3 cup (90 g) serving of frozen mixed vegetables contains about 60 calories. However, the calorie count may vary depending on the brand and type of vegetables included in the mix.