Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta carotene, as well as carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. A medium baked sweet potato contains about 3.4 grams of fiber, only 117 calories and almost no fat.

There are two types of sweet potatoes. Moist, or orange-fleshed are sweeter and are often referred to as "yams." However, the yam is a large root vegetable that can grow to over 100 pounds, is grown in Africa and Asia and is rarely seen in Western stores and restaurants. These moist yams are not only terrific baked, but are also delicious raw. Slice them and dip in hummus or a dressing of your choice, or you can shred them and add them to any raw salad.

The other type of sweet potato is starchier, and yellow-fleshed. These taste less sweet but are also delicious.

The easiest way to prepare sweet potatoes is to bake or steam them. To save time, you can bake several at once, as they will keep in the refrigerator for a few days, and actually are not only good re-warmed, but cold. Top a baked sweet potato with a little cinnamon and toasted wheat germ to add some flavor.

Sweet potatoes are a great addition to any recipe containing squash, and sweet potato pie is a wonderful holiday treat. Many vegetarian cookbooks feature recipes using sweet potatoes creatively.