The Best Vegetables for Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty British casserole that features a savory meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. While the traditional version of the dish includes only simple vegetables like carrots and celery, there are plenty of other vegetables that can be used to create a delicious and nutritious shepherd’s pie. Here are some of the best vegetables for shepherd’s pie.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, turnips, and parsnips all make a great addition to shepherd’s pie. These vegetables add texture and flavor to the casserole, plus they are packed with vitamins and minerals. Try mashing them into the mashed potato topping for added flavor and nutrition.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are excellent for adding nutrition as well as flavor to shepherd’s pie. These vegetables are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and they can be cooked in the sauce for the filling or scattered over the top. Either way, they will help make your shepherd’s pie even more nutritious.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are the perfect addition to shepherd’s pie. They add a meaty taste and texture to the dish along with a healthy dose of vitamin D and B vitamins. Some of the best of mushrooms for shepherd’s pie include white button mushrooms, portabella mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms.
Peas, Corn, and Beans
Peas, corn, and beans add an extra boost of protein and fiber to your shepherd’s pie. Try adding frozen or canned varieties for convenience, or use fresh peas and beans that you have cooked ahead of time. Either way, these vegetables will make your dish even more delicious.
Herbs and Spices
Finally, herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, garlic, and nutmeg can all be used to give your shepherd’s pie an extra boost of flavor. Try adding them to the meat filling or sprinkling them over the mashed potato topping for added flavor.
The best thing about shepherd’s pie is that it is incredibly versatile, so you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand to create a delicious and nutritious meal. As long as you have a nice mix of root vegetables, leafy greens, mushrooms, peas, corn, beans, and herbs and spices, you can be sure that your shepherd’s pie will be a hit!
