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10 Tips to Overcome Your Fear (or Disgust) of Eating Veggies
We all know veggies are good for us, but let’s be real—if you’ve ever stared down a plate of soggy Brussels sprouts and thought, “Do I really need these in my life?”—you’re not alone.
The good news? You don’t have to suffer through sad, flavorless greens to reap the benefits. Whether your relationship with vegetables is complicated or you’ve outright ghosted them, these tips will help you ease into a veggie-filled lifestyle—no trauma required.
Let’s turn those “eww” moments into “mmm” moments, one bite at a time….
1. Start Small and Sneaky
If the sight of a plate of broccoli makes you shudder, don’t worry—you don’t have to dive in headfirst. Start by sneaking veggies into meals you already love. Blend spinach into smoothies, stir shredded zucchini into pasta sauces, or mix cauliflower rice with your regular rice. You won’t even know they’re there (but your body will thank you).
2. Pair Them with Something You Love
Hate veggies? Pair them with something irresistible. Drizzle roasted carrots with a little honey, dunk raw veggies into your favorite hummus, or smother Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. It’s like hiding veggies under a blanket of deliciousness.
3. Season Like a Pro
A sprinkle of salt isn’t going to cut it—veggies need flavor! Experiment with spices and seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even curry powder. A good seasoning mix can transform bland veggies into a dish you’ll actually crave.
4. Make Them Crunchy
Mushy vegetables are the worst. Instead, aim for crispy and crunchy. Roast them at high heat until caramelized, make kale chips, or try lightly sautéing veggies for a satisfying texture. You’d be amazed at how much difference a little crunch can make.
5. Add Cheese or Sauce
Sometimes, a little indulgence is the key to veggie success. A sprinkle of Parmesan on roasted broccoli or a drizzle of creamy avocado dressing over a salad can make all the difference. Think of it as the gateway to loving vegetables.
6. Experiment with Preparation
Not all veggies are meant to be steamed (looking at you, sad broccoli). Roast, grill, sauté, blend, spiralize, or even air fry them to discover new textures and flavors. You might hate boiled asparagus but love it roasted with a touch of olive oil and lemon.
7. Focus on Presentation
Believe it or not, how veggies look can influence how you feel about eating them. Bright, colorful veggies arranged on a plate or served in a fun bowl are way more appealing than a soggy pile on the side of your plate. They say we eat with our eyes first!
8. Challenge Yourself to Try One New Veggie a Week
Turn it into a fun game! Pick one new vegetable to try each week and find a creative way to prepare it. You might just discover a new favorite (who knew roasted parsnips could be so good?).
9. Combine Veggies with Comfort Foods
Mix veggies into foods that feel familiar and comforting, like casseroles, mac and cheese, pizza, or pasta. When veggies share the stage with your favorites, they’re way less intimidating.
10. Remind Yourself Why You’re Doing This
Sometimes, a little motivation goes a long way. Whether it’s for better health, more energy, or just to set a good example for your kids, keeping your “why” in mind can make that bite of spinach feel a little less daunting.
The key is to take it slow and experiment. Remember, eating veggies isn’t about punishment—it’s about giving your body the fuel it deserves in a way that works for you. Before you know it, you might just find yourself reaching for seconds. (Yes, of vegetables!)
Please note: This website contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
