So Fresh & So Green, Green: Spring Veggies to Make the Most Of

The snow is finally melting and we are finally starting to see little bits of green poking through the soil and bursting from tree branches! With the coming of spring means the coming of green — more specifically, green veggies. Check out these eight green springtime veggies to make the most of this season.

Asparagus: Did you know that a field of asparagus takes three years to yield any product? That's why it's viewed as a "luxury" vegetable. Today, asparagus is more widespread and inexpensive than it used to be, so it's not as "fancy," but we still welcome asparagus at any meal. It's low in calories and sodium and a great source of potassium. Try our delicious recipe for Asparagus and Cheese Stuffed Chicken!

Peas: Peas are another veggie that is great in the springtime. In addition to its sweet taste and versatility, peas contain health-protective phytonutrients that help protect against stomach cancer. Click here for a delicious Spring Peas with Mint recipe.

Green beans: Also referred to as string beans, green beans contain lots of lutein, beta-carotene, violaxanthin and neoxanthin, which are antioxidant carotenoids. That means that they protect against diseases like cancer! Our recipe for Skinny Southern Green Beans is delicious, and so is this Skinny Green Bean & Potato Casserole recipe.

Okra: A Southern favorite, okra is a low-cal veggie rich in fiber, minerals and vitamins A, C and K. For a healthy take on the classic Southern fried okra dish, click here!

Bok choy: This Chinese cabbage contains 21 nutrients! And unlike other cabbages, it's high in omega 3s, the antioxidant zinc and vitamin A. Check out this delicious Asian-Inspired Chicken Soup recipe for those chilly spring days that don't seem to know it's supposed to be warm outside.

Cucumbers: The thought of the sweet crunch of a cucumber is enough to make anyone's mouth drool. Plus, you can snack on cucumbers guilt-free because they're low-cal and full of fiber. They also help reduce constipation and protect against colon cancer. Looking for a cool treat? Click here for a Cucumber, Avocado and Feta Salad recipe.

Broccoli: Broccoli is full of a myriad of vitamins and nutrients, the most notable of which are vitamin A, folate, antioxidants and phytonutrients that protect against cancer. If your kids are picky eaters, try sneaking broccoli into their diet with this mac and cheese recipe. If you want something a bit more green, click here for a Broccoli Rabe Pizza recipe.

Artichokes: Good news for preggo moms: Artichokes are full of folic acid, which is a crucial nutrient for your developing baby. But even if you're not expecting, you can still benefit from the tasty artichoke. Besides having a ton of vitamins and nutrients, it also has antioxidants that help protect your body from harmful free radical agents.

>> Read more: 10 Antioxidant-Rich Foods You Should Be Eating