Let’s Love on Winter Veggies: Cozy, Clean, and So Nourishing
There’s something so grounding about cooking with what the season gives us. Winter is quieter, slower. It invites us back to the stove, to slower roasting, longer simmers, and meals that warm you from the inside out. And let me tell you—winter veggies are having their moment. They may not be flashy, but they are so full of depth, nutrients, and cozy magic when cooked the right way.
Why Winter Veggies Deserve a Spot on Your Plate
Cold-weather crops like cabbage, carrots, parsnips, leeks, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, kale, and winter squash aren’t just filling—they're packed with:
- Antioxidants that help fight inflammation
- Fiber to support digestion and blood sugar balance
- Earthy, grounding flavors that bring depth to your meals without needing tons of fancy ingredients
And when we prepare them with intention—hello sheet pan caramelization, soups with bone broth, or creamy purees with coconut milk—they truly shine.
At New Leaf Table, our mission is to bring you nourishing recipes that are simple, family-friendly, and deeply satisfying. And winter produce makes that easy.
Favorite Ways to Cook Winter Veggies at New Leaf Table
Here are a few go-to recipes that celebrate the season:
🥕 Maple-Roasted Carrot & Farro Salad
A New Leaf Table favorite! Tossed with warm farro, peppery arugula, and a zippy vinaigrette, this salad is hearty enough for dinner but light enough to feel fresh. The maple-glazed carrots add just the right touch of natural sweetness.
🥣 Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Chickpeas
This one's a winter hug in a bowl. We blend roasted cauliflower with garlic, onion, and just a little coconut milk for a velvety, dairy-free base. The chickpeas add crunch and protein. It's gluten-free, cozy, and makes perfect leftovers.
🧄 Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle
If you think cabbage is boring, this recipe will change your mind. High-heat roasting brings out its natural sweetness, and the creamy tahini-lemon drizzle takes it next level. Serve alongside chicken or salmon for a super balanced meal.
🥔 Sweet Potato + Black Bean Bowls with Chipotle Sauce
These are a client and family favorite in winter because they’re satisfying and energizing without weighing you down. We load up roasted sweet potatoes, quick-sautéed kale, and smoky black beans, then top it all with our signature chipotle cashew sauce.
Pro Tips for Seasonal Cooking in Winter
- Roast It: Roasting brings out the natural sugars in root vegetables. A 425°F oven, a little olive oil, sea salt, and 20–30 minutes can transform any veggie.
- Use Bone Broth as a Base: Winter is a great time to simmer veggies in broth instead of water for soups, grains, or braises. It adds nutrients and depth.
- Add Acidity: A splash of lemon, vinegar, or fermented dressing helps brighten up hearty winter veg and makes everything taste fresher.
- Cook Once, Eat Twice: Roast extra squash, cabbage, or carrots and use them in salads, hashes, or wraps later in the week.
A Final Word from My Kitchen
Don’t underestimate the power of eating with the seasons. It’s one of the simplest ways to nourish your body, support your hormones, and stay connected to nature—even in the quieter, colder months.
Winter veggies might not shout for attention the way berries and tomatoes do in summer, but they absolutely belong at your table—and we’ve got the recipes to make them shine.
Wishing you a season full of warm meals, quiet moments, and simple nourishment,
xo,
Chef E
© 2024 New Leaf Table