Turnips are a versatile and nutrient-rich vegetable that should be a part of any healthy diet. Turnips can add new flavors and textures to your meals, thanks to their slightly sweet and mildly spicy taste. Whether you’re a fan of this underrated vegetable or you’ve never cooked with them before, here are five delicious ways to enjoy turnips in your kitchen.

1. Roasted Turnips

Roasting turnips is an excellent way to bring out their natural sweetness while creating an irresistible caramelized exterior. To roast turnips, simply peel and cut them into wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re tender and golden brown.

2. Mashed Turnips

For a unique twist on traditional mashed potatoes, use turnips instead! Boil peeled and diced turnips in a pot of salted water until tender. Drain and return them to the pot along with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture using a handheld potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth. You can also add your favorite herbs or seasonings to taste.

3. Sautéed Turnip Greens

Don’t discard the leafy greens attached to your turnip—they’re packed with vitamins and minerals! To prepare sautéed turnip greens, first rinse the greens thoroughly and remove any tough stems. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic or onion if desired. Next, add the greens in batches and cook for 3-5 minutes until they wilt down. Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (optional), and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

4. Turnip Soup

Warm up on cold days with a hearty turnip soup! Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in a pot with olive oil. Once they’re softened, add diced turnips and enough vegetable or chicken broth to cover them. Bring the mixture to a boil and allow it to simmer until the turnips are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. For a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to puree the ingredients until smooth.

5. Pickled Turnips

Pickling turnips is a great way to preserve their flavor for future meals. For quick pickled turnips, combine thinly sliced turnip, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and any desired spices (such as caraway seeds) in a jar or container. Allow the mixture to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour – the longer they rest, the more flavorful they become! Enjoy your pickled turnips atop sandwiches, salads, or as a tangy snack.

With these five methods of cooking turnips at your disposal, you’ll never look at this humble root vegetable the same way again. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with various flavors and seasonings to match your personal preferences. Happy cooking!