Which Vegetables Have The Lowest Calories?

The Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are some of the most nutritious, low-calorie vegetables available. Spinach, kale, arugula, and chard are just a few examples that are packed with vitamins and minerals. A one-cup serving of cooked spinach, for instance, contains only 41 calories and provides over 250% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin A. Arugula is also a great source of calcium, containing 21 milligrams of calcium in one cup. Kale contains 45 calories in one cup and provides omega-3 fatty acids and iron. Eating leafy greens is a great way to get a lot of nutrition with very few calories.

The Cruciferous Vegetables

The cruciferous family includes broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, providing 90% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C in just one cup. A one-cup serving of cooked broccoli contains just 54 calories and is a great source of fiber. Cauliflower contains only 25 calories in one cup and provides 77% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. Brussels sprouts are also a good source of fiber and vitamin C, containing 38 calories in one cup. Cabbage is the lowest calorie vegetable of the bunch, containing just 22 calories in one cup.

The Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are another great option for those looking for low-calorie vegetables. Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, containing 41 calories in one cup. Turnips are even lower in calories, with 28 calories in one cup. Parsnips contain just 97 calories in one cup and provide a good source of fiber. White potatoes contain the most calories of the root vegetables, but still only contain 155 calories in one cup. Sweet potatoes are another great option, providing 90 calories in one cup.

The Squash Family

The squash family includes zucchini, summer squash, and winter squash. Zucchini is one of the lowest-calorie vegetables, containing just 17 calories in one cup. Summer squash contains 36 calories in one cup and is a great source of vitamin C. Winter squash, such as acorn and butternut squash, contain more calories than the other squash varieties but still provide a good source of fiber and potassium. Acorn squash contains 60 calories in one cup and butternut squash contains 63 calories in one cup.

The Alliums

The allium family includes garlic, onions, and leeks. Onions are the lowest calorie allium, containing just 64 calories in one cup. Garlic contains 149 calories in one cup and is a great source of vitamins and minerals. Leeks are also a good source of vitamins and minerals and contain only 29 calories in one cup. All of these vegetables are great sources of flavor and nutrition with very few calories.

The Lowest Calorie Veggies

The lowest calorie vegetables are cabbage, turnips, and zucchini. Each of these vegetables contains just 22 calories in one cup. Eating these vegetables is an excellent way to get a lot of nutrition without consuming a lot of calories. Eating a variety of vegetables will ensure you get the vitamins and minerals your body needs and help you maintain a healthy weight.