Purple vegetables are surprising and interesting to grow because of their unique and vibrant color. They add a pop of visual appeal to any garden or plate, making them stand out from traditional green vegetables. Growing purple vegetables allows gardeners to diversify their harvest and offer something different. Growing purple vegetables is a wonderful and fun way for gardeners to explore new flavors, colors, and health benefits in their gardening journey.
There are several reasons for the increase in the availability of purple vegetables to grow:
Growing Demand - Purple vegetables have gained popularity due to their vibrant color and unique nutritional benefits. As more people become aware of the health benefits of these colorful veggies, the demand for them has increased.
Health Benefits - Purple vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which help protect our cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.
Culinary Appeal - Purple vegetables add a pop of color to dishes, making them visually appealing. Chefs and home cooks alike are incorporating these vibrant veggies into their recipes to create visually stunning and delicious meals.
Breeding Advancements - Thanks to advancements in breeding techniques, more varieties of purple vegetables are being developed. These new varieties offer improved flavor, texture, and disease resistance, making them easier to grow and more accessible to gardeners.
Years ago, we wrote an article about purple vegetables and fruits and there were only a few to pick from. Here are some of the interesting purple varieties available now:
Asparagus - Unlike traditional green asparagus, purple asparagus contains higher levels of antioxidants due to its rich color. Another intriguing factor about growing purple asparagus is its versatility in cooking. Whether roasted, grilled, steamed, or sautéed, these colorful spears add a unique flavor profile to any dish. Two wonderful varieties to try are Sweet Purple Asparagus and Purple Passion Asparagus.
Beans – One of the most interesting aspects of growing purple beans is watching the pods transition from green to their striking purple hue as they mature. This visual transformation adds an element of surprise and beauty to your garden. Purple beans are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. They are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential cancer-fighting abilities. There are numerous purple bean varieties. We have selected a few to highlight and they are Amethyst Bean, Purple Queen Bush Bean, and Purple Teepee.
Broccoli - One interesting aspect of growing purple broccoli is its stunning appearance. The deep purple hue of the florets adds a pop of color to your garden bed or plate, making it an attractive choice for home growers and chefs alike. In addition to its visual appeal, purple broccoli offers a distinct flavor profile compared to traditional green broccoli varieties. Its slightly sweeter taste pairs well with a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to salads. Some purple varieties include Purple Sprouting Broccoli, Tyrian Purple Broccoli, and Purple Magic.
Carrots - Purple carrots can add visual appeal to your dishes, making them stand out on the plate. They can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads and stir-fries to juices and desserts. What is interesting is some of the varieties have purple outside and inside, but others are purple on the outside, orange, and even white on the inside. Some interesting varieties include Gniff Carrot Seeds, Black Nebula, and Purple Star.
Cauliflower - Purple cauliflower offers health benefits similar to those of white cauliflower. It is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall health and may help reduce inflammation and promote heart health. Two interesting cauliflower varieties are Purple Of Sicily Cauliflower and Purple Moon.
Peas - Purple peas have a vibrant hue, which comes from the presence of anthocyanins - powerful antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties. This makes purple peas not only visually appealing but also beneficial for overall health. Some interesting varieties include King Tut Purple Peas and Royal Snow Peas.
Peppers – From mild and sweet varieties to those packing a spicy punch, there is a purple pepper to suit every taste preference. Purple peppers are relatively easy to grow, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Some interesting varieties to try are Purple Beauty Bell Pepper, Lilac Bell, and Islander.
Potatoes - growing purple potatoes can be a fun and rewarding experience for home gardeners. These potatoes thrive in cooler climates and can be grown in containers or traditional garden beds. Their vibrant hue adds a pop of color to any garden, making them both aesthetically pleasing and functional. There are many purple potato varieties including Purple Majesty Potato, Adirondack Blue, and Purple Viking.
Radishes – Radishes have a relatively quick growth cycle, and it makes them an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy fresh produce without a long wait. These vibrant vegetables are packed with nutrients and add a pop of color to any dish they grace. Some purple radish varieties are Purple Plum Radish and Bravo.
Why not try growing purple vegetables this year? Remember these often contain powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have been linked to various health benefits. So not only are they visually stunning, but they also pack a nutritional punch.
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