What is the king of root vegetables?

Potatoes are often considered the king because of their global popularity, versatility, and nutrition profile. They provide energy, vitamin C, and potassium while adapting to countless recipes.

What is the healthiest root vegetable to eat?

Sweet potatoes top the list thanks to their high beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants. According to the National Institutes of Health , they support eye health and immune function.

Are root vegetables anti-inflammatory?

Yes, many root vegetables contain compounds that help fight inflammation. Beets, for example, are rich in betalains, which the National Library of Medicine links to reduced oxidative stress.

What are the 5 root vegetables?

Commonly listed root vegetables include carrots, potatoes, beets, parsnips, and turnips. All are versatile, nutritious, and delicious when roasted, mashed, or baked into gratins.

Root Vegetable Gratin Recipe That Tastes Amazing

Name: Root Vegetable Gratin Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened; 1–2 long sweet potatoes, peeled; 3–4 large parsnips, peeled; 3–5 small beets, peeled; 14 tablespoons heavy cream, divided; 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated and divided; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced, plus more for garnish; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 ounce Gruyère cheese, shredded; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Description

A creamy root vegetable gratin layered with sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets, baked in cream and topped with Gruyère. Perfect as a holiday side or cozy weeknight dish.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1–2 long sweet potatoes, peeled
3–4 large parsnips, peeled
3–5 small beets, peeled
14 tablespoons heavy cream, divided
4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated and divided
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced, plus more for garnish
1 garlic clove, minced
1 ounce Gruyère cheese, shredded
Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F and butter a 3-quart baking dish.
Thinly slice sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets; place in separate bowls.
Pour cream over each bowl, add Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper; toss to coat.
Pour a thin layer of cream, Parmesan, and garlic in the dish. Stack rows of vegetables upright.
Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes until vegetables soften.
Uncover, top with Gruyère, and bake 20 minutes more until golden and bubbling.
Sprinkle with fresh thyme and serve warm.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble one day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5–7 minutes extra baking time when reheating.
Pro tip: Lightly coat beets in cream to reduce bleeding. For dairy-free, use oat cream and vegan cheese. For budget-friendly, swap Gruyère with cheddar.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American