Parsnips : Six Nutrition and Health Benefits

Parsnips are a delicious type of root vegetable that has been cultivated and enjoyed around the world for thousands of years. They are closely related to other vegetables like carrots and parsley roots, parsnips have long, cream-colored tuberous roots with a sweet, slightly nutty flavour. In addition to bringing a unique taste to your dishes, parsnips are incredibly nutritious and have been associated with many health benefits.

Here are six nutrition and health benefits of parsnips:

Packed With Important Nutrients 

Parsnips are a great source of fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, as well as other important micronutrients. 

Rich in Antioxidants 

Parsnips are high in antioxidants including vitamin C and polyacetylenes that may prevent oxidative stress and chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. 

High in Soluble and Insoluble Fibre 

Parsnips are high in fibre, which can support regularity, improve your digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance heart health. 

May Aid Weight Loss 

Parsnips are low in calories but contain a good amount of water and fibre, both of which may benefit weight loss. 

Support Immune Function 

Parsnips are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, both of which may enhance your immune function and optimize health. 

Delicious and Easy to Add to Your Diet 

Parsnips have a sweet taste similar to carrots, but with a nutty, earthy undertone. They can be mashed, roasted, sautéed, boiled, baked, grilled, or fried and add a rich flavour to many dishes, working especially well in soups, stews, casseroles, gratins, and purees. They can also be easily swapped in for nearly any other root vegetable in your favourite recipes, including carrots, potatoes, turnips, and rutabagas (swede). 

Here are a few interesting ways to add parsnips to your diet:-

Combine parsnips with mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian shepherd’s pie.
Mash parsnips and mix with lemon and herbs.
Prepare a parsnip gratin with ingredients like feta, turmeric, and cumin.
Bake sliced parsnips in the oven to make vegetable crisps.
Toss with olive oil and spices and roast alongside carrots.

The Bottom Line 

Parsnips are a type of root vegetable, closely related to carrots and parsley root They are rich in several important nutrients and antioxidants that may improve immunity, enhance digestive health, and aid weight loss. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare and have a sweet, earthy taste that works well in a variety of recipes, making them a great addition to a healthy, balanced diet.

Words and picture above taken from an article by Rachael Link MS RD, to read her article in full, with all related research links, please see here

Have you tried Parsnip & Cauliflower Soup, Recipe here

Or this Spiced Parsnip Soup with Coriander and Chilli Pesto, Recipe here

Or how about Mushroom and Parsnip Rösti pie, Recipe here

We bring a variety of articles and recipe ideas to this blog, but please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. 

All the best Jan