You know eating vegetables is good for you, but it’s sometimes hard to find ways to fit them into your and your family’s diet. Whether dealing with rising grocery prices, cut funds, or just finding what fits right for you, here are some foods that still count as vegetables and might be cheaper and shelf stable. You don’t need a hefty budget or fancy cooking skills to eat more vegetables. 

Vegetables are essential for a healthy diet and provide numerous benefits. A diet rich in vegetables and fruit can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, and lower risk of digestive problems. It is worth it to take the time to figure out how you can incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Salsa

Minus a pinch of salt or sugar, salsa is essentially just a bunch of vegetables chopped up. Full of tomatoes, onions, garlic, cilantro, and jalapenos, salsa is packed with nutritional benefits, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Try putting chicken and salsa in a crockpot and you can get a balanced meal. 

Canned Pumpkin

With fall fading and winter fast approaching, you might find yourself with a leftover can of pumpkin. Filled with vitamin A and fiber, canned pumpkin can be considered a good vegetable alternative. Canned pumpkin can provide healthy alternatives to things such as lattes, soups, breads, and pastries. Like other canned goods though, some canned pumpkin products are high in sodium, so you’ll want to read ingredient labels carefully to avoid those with added sugar.

Potatoes

Although high in carbs, potatoes contain tons of micronutrients and fiber and are nutritionally incredibly dense. Potatoes are also cheap, widely accessible, and generally widely liked by all. To be used in breakfast, lunch, or dinner, potatoes are the perfect way to provide energy and vitamins in any form you choose. Try air-fryer potato chips, onion-garlic hash browns, oven fries, and more. 

Hummus 

Hummus is more nutrient-dense than other “healthy” condiments, including bean dip, salsa, and peanut butter, providing a great healthy alternative to the snack. Filled with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is generally good for you due to its fiber, protein, and healthy fats that support gut health. Maybe try subbing out hummus at the next holiday gathering.