Rutabaga
Vegetables
Nutri-ScoreA

Rutabaga

Brassica napus var. rapifera

Clinical Encyclopedia

Rutabaga, also known as swede, is a root vegetable that is a cross between a cabbage and a turnip. It is rich in nutrients and has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.

Also known as:
SwedeYellow turnip
Scientific NameBrassica napus var. rapifera
Region of OriginSweden

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories61 kcal
Water
90%
Fiber3.9g
Total16.1g
Protein
1.2g(7%)
Fats
0.1g(1%)
Carbohydrates
14.8g(92%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C21 mg (23%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Folate22 mcg (6%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin K: 1.2 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium305 mg (9%)
Calcium30 mg (2%)
Magnesium15 mg (4%)
Iron0.8 mg (4%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rutabaga is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
It is a good source of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rutabaga can be eaten raw in salads, roasted, mashed, or added to soups and stews for added flavor and nutrition.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose rutabagas that are firm, heavy for their size, and free from blemishes or soft spots.

How to Store

Store rutabagas in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator, where they can last for several weeks.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Digestive health
Anti-inflammatory diets
Bioactive Compounds
Glucosinolates

Compounds that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

How to Consume
Raw, Cooked, Mashed, Roasted
Did you know?

"Rutabaga was a staple food during World War II due to its hardiness and nutritional value."

Myths vs Realities

MythRutabaga is just a turnip.
RealityRutabaga is a distinct vegetable, a hybrid of turnip and cabbage, with different nutritional profiles.
MythYou can only eat rutabaga cooked.
RealityRutabaga can be enjoyed raw, providing a crunchy texture and sweet flavor.
MythRutabaga is not nutritious.
RealityRutabaga is nutrient-dense, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Healthy Recipes

Rutabaga and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining roasted rutabaga with protein-packed quinoa and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced rutabaga with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and roasted rutabaga.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss gently, and serve immediately.

Rutabaga Mash with Garlic

A creamy and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes, this rutabaga mash is infused with roasted garlic for a delicious side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium rutabagas, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cloves garlic, roasted
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup almond milk
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil the rutabaga cubes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. 2. Drain and return to the pot. Add roasted garlic, olive oil, and almond milk.
  3. 3. Mash until smooth, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Rutabaga and Carrot Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup made with rutabaga and carrots, blended to creamy perfection and seasoned with fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, peeled and diced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. 2. Add rutabaga, carrots, thyme, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. 3. Blend the soup until smooth, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Spicy Rutabaga Fries

Crispy baked rutabaga fries seasoned with spices for a healthy snack or side dish that satisfies your cravings.

Ingredients
  • 1 large rutabaga, cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss rutabaga fries with olive oil, paprika, cayenne, and salt.
  2. 2. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. 3. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Rutabaga and Lentil Stew

A comforting stew featuring rutabaga and lentils, packed with protein and fiber, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion until soft. Add rutabaga, carrots, lentils, cumin, and vegetable broth.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Rutabaga and Apple Slaw

A crunchy and tangy slaw made with shredded rutabaga and apples, perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, shredded
  • 1 large apple, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine shredded rutabaga and apple.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the slaw, toss to combine, and serve chilled.

Rutabaga and Chickpea Curry

A flavorful vegan curry featuring rutabaga and chickpeas, simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce and served over rice.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, diced
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 2 cups spinach
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pan, sauté onion until soft. Add rutabaga and curry powder, cooking for 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk, simmering for 20 minutes until rutabaga is tender.
  3. 3. Add spinach, cook until wilted, season with salt, and serve over rice.

Rutabaga and Beet Salad

A vibrant salad combining roasted rutabaga and beets, topped with feta cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium beet, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss rutabaga and beet with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 30-35 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and balsamic vinegar.
  3. 3. Toss gently and serve warm or at room temperature.

Rutabaga Pancakes

Savory pancakes made with grated rutabaga, perfect for breakfast or brunch, served with a dollop of yogurt.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup grated rutabaga
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix grated rutabaga, flour, almond milk, egg, baking powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour batter to form pancakes and cook until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve warm with yogurt on top.

Rutabaga and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata featuring rutabaga and spinach, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium rutabaga, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 6 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and sauté rutabaga until tender.
  2. 2. Add spinach and cook until wilted. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, then pour over the vegetables.
  3. 3. Cook on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of rutabaga?

Rutabaga is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can support digestive health and provide antioxidants.

How can I incorporate rutabaga into my diet?

You can eat rutabaga raw in salads, or cook it by roasting, mashing, or adding it to soups.

Is rutabaga low in calories?

Yes, rutabaga is low in calories, making it a great option for weight management.

Can rutabaga be eaten raw?

Yes, rutabaga can be eaten raw and has a crunchy texture and slightly sweet flavor.

How should I store rutabaga?

Store rutabaga in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Is rutabaga suitable for a low-carb diet?

Rutabaga is lower in carbohydrates compared to potatoes, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

What nutrients are found in rutabaga?

Rutabaga is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Can rutabaga help with weight loss?

Yes, due to its low calorie and high fiber content, rutabaga can help with weight loss by promoting satiety.