Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favourite foods. It just means making smarter choices—and leafy greens are one of the best ways to do that.
They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre, and they can easily be added to your daily meals without sacrificing taste.
Whether you’re trying to lose weight, improve your immunity, or boost your energy levels, leafy greens can help you reach your health goals.
Here’s a list of 13 of the healthiest leafy greens you should try adding to your diet today.
1. Kale
Kale is often called a “superfood” for a reason. It’s full of:
- Vitamins A, C, and K
- Copper, potassium, iron, and phosphorus
- Fibre and antioxidants
Add it to soups, salads, or smoothies for an extra boost of nutrition and flavour.
2. Spinach
Spinach is a soft, tasty green loaded with:
- Iron, calcium, and potassium
- Vitamin A and antioxidants
- Anti-inflammatory compounds
Great in salads, sautéed in ghee, or added to dals and sabzis.
3. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard offers a rainbow of nutrients:
- High in vitamins A and C
- Rich in iron, calcium, and potassium
It’s especially helpful for those with low iron levels or high blood pressure. Toss it into a stir fry or lightly steam it for a side dish.
4. Collard Greens
These dark green leaves are a nutritional powerhouse:
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
- Full of fibre and iron
- Naturally low in calories
Boil, steam, or sauté them with spices for a hearty, healthy dish.
5. Mustard Greens
With their peppery flavour, mustard greens are:
- High in calcium and iron
- Packed with vitamins A and K
- Great for digestion due to their fibre content
Sauté them with garlic and mustard seeds for a classic Indian touch.
6. Bok Choy
Popular in Chinese cuisine, bok choy is:
- Rich in fibre, beta-carotene, and vitamins A, C, and K
- Low in calories and high in hydration
Add it to soups, stir-fries, or steamed dishes for a gentle crunch.
7. Turnip Greens
Turnip greens are often overlooked but very healthy:
- Loaded with calcium, iron, magnesium, and vitamin A
- Full of fibre to keep you fuller for longer
Steam or stir-fry them for a tasty and filling side dish.
8. Arugula
Arugula has a slightly spicy flavour and is:
- High in vitamins A and C
- Rich in antioxidants that may reduce disease risk
Toss it into your salads, sandwiches, or even over your homemade pizza.
9. Romaine Lettuce
Romaine lettuce is:
- Low in calories
- A source of iron, potassium, fibre, and vitamin A
Use it in salads, lettuce wraps, or crunchy mixed bowls for texture and nutrition.
10. Endive
Endive has a slightly bitter taste and is:
- Rich in vitamin A, K, iron, and calcium
- Great with sweet sauces like balsamic vinegar
Add it to salads or sauté it for a slightly crispy and tasty side.
11. Watercress
Watercress is one of the most nutrient-dense greens:
- High in vitamins A and C, calcium, and magnesium
- Contains iron and fibre
Add it to soups or salads for a spicy, peppery flavour.
12. Kohlrabi Greens
Kohlrabi greens are:
- Rich in vitamins A and K
- Mild in taste and easy to cook
Perfect for stir-fries with onions and carrots or added to dals and gravies.
13. Chicory Greens
These leafy greens are:
- High in iron, calcium, vitamins A and K
- Slightly bitter but pair well with sweet dressings
Toss them into a salad or sauté with jaggery or honey-glazed sauces to balance the flavour.
Leafy greens are one of the simplest, most affordable ways to improve your health. They’re rich in essential nutrients that support your immune system, bones, heart, and digestive health. And the best part? You don’t have to give up flavour to enjoy them.
From kale to spinach to mustard greens, these 13 greens can easily be added to your meals in tasty, desi-friendly ways. Start small—mix them into your dals, stir-fries, or salads—and your body will thank you for it.
