The crunchy, low calorie, high fiber stalk of the celery plant is an important source of many antioxidants and phytonutrients. Braise it, juice it, add it to soups or stir fries, or pile some peanut butter on for a fun snack. And don't forget the leaves—they're nutritious and flavorful, too.

Nature's sweetest vegetable, ruby-hued beets are always at home in salads and sides, and make a tantalizing addition to savory main courses.

Fresh sage's grayish-green leaves pack a robust earthy bouquet, a little like mint but pleasingly musty and deep.