Top 5 Vegetables to Always Buy Frozen Instead of Fresh!

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Spinach

One evening, as I struggled with a mouthful of gritty spinach, I decided that frozen spinach was the way to go. While I appreciate the convenience of baby spinach, which can be eaten raw or cooked, mature spinach in bundles requires meticulous cleaning to eliminate all traces of dirt and sand. This is where frozen spinach, available chopped or as whole leaves, really shines. I prefer the bags of frozen spinach over boxes since you can easily use the amount you need without having to thaw a whole block. Use it directly from the freezer in smoothies, soups, and curries, or thaw and drain it before adding to omelets or as a delicious pizza topping.

Corn

Nothing beats the taste of fresh corn during the peak of summer, but that season is brief. For the rest of the year, your best bet is frozen corn. It’s just as sweet as its summer counterpart and has the added advantage of not needing to be shucked. Thaw the kernels and whip up some delightful corn fritters, add them to cheesy quesadillas, or enjoy a dish of creamed corn for a comforting side.

Artichokes

Sourcing fresh artichokes is a challenge most of the year, and they are not easy to prepare. However, frozen artichoke hearts are available all year round and require no preparation. Unlike canned or jarred options, frozen artichokes boast a cleaner, brighter taste and greater versatility since they are not preserved in oil or brine. You only need to partially thaw them before incorporating into dishes like pasta or risotto, or let them stand out on their own by roasting with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are deliciously crisp and caramelized.

Peas

Frozen peas are more than just a remedy for injuries; they are the fastest cooking vegetable in the frozen section and a must-have in your freezer throughout the year. They add a pop of color and sweetness to dishes like rice and pasta, and can also be enjoyed on their own. They don’t even need cooking to be tossed into a salad. For a fresh take, blend them with toasted nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil to create a vibrant and unexpected pesto.

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Butternut Squash

Although you can purchase pre-cut fresh butternut squash, it often comes with a high price tag due to its convenience. Frozen cubed butternut squash provides the same convenience at a more affordable price. Blend it into soups or pasta sauces, stir it into a quick vegetable sauté, or steam or microwave until tender and puree it for use in quick breads.

Spinach