You probably already know that fruits and vegetables are good for you and can benefit from incorporating more of them into their diet. However, many people struggle with fitting them into meals that feel exciting and satisfying. The key to making fruits and vegetables delicious is finding ways to enhance their flavor, texture and versatility. Try these tips for elevating your favorite produce.

Enhance Flavor with Different Cooking Techniques

Raw fruits and vegetables can be refreshing and delicious on their own, but different cooking techniques can bring out their natural sweetness and depth. 

For example, grilling can add smoky depth to vegetables like zucchini, corn and eggplant, while further intensifying the sweetness of fruits like peaches and pineapple. Sauteing with garlic and onions, can transform leafy greens like spinach and kale into a flavorful side dish. Roasting veggies like carrots and bell peppers at high temperatures caramelizes their natural sugars, creating richer flavor.

For a simple way to make veggies the star of your plate, try these Roasted Vegetable Tostadas. Crunchy and bursting with flavor, these mini tostadas feature ShortCuts Stir Fry Vegetable Mix for easy preparation. Topped with Full Circle Market organic salsa, avocado and a squeeze of lime, these can be served as a filling snack or balanced meal. 

Add Complexity with Seasoning

The second thing we want to think about when making fruits and veggies taste better is seasoning – sometimes just a little bit can make all the difference. You probably wouldn’t eat plain chicken or fish without dressing it up with spices or sauces, so try the same with produce. A sprinkle of sea salt, a dash of citrus juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can instantly elevate the taste of fruits and vegetables. Spices like cinnamon on roasted sweet potatoes or chili powder on mango slices add complexity.

Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro and mint bring brightness to both fruits and vegetables. A homemade dressing or sauce – such as a yogurt-based dip for raw veggies or honey-lime glaze for fruit can enhance natural flavors without overpowering them. 

For a light and delicious appetizer, try steamed edamame with a drizzle of chili oil for spicy complex flavor or add a small amount of liquid smoke to brussels sprouts, carrots or potatoes to conveniently transform the flavor without pulling out the grill or smoker. 

Experimenting with different preparations and pairings can make fruits and vegetables a highlight of your meals. Whether through roasting, seasoning or creative combinations, these simple techniques can transform them from an afterthought into the star of the show.