Strategy
for Life After Mashed Potatoes

     Not all vegetables are created equal when it comes to nutrients. Some have more Good Things then others, so it seems logical to start by identifying those vegetables.
     The following is a classification that we have devised, mainly from comments on each vegetable in Wellness Foods A to Z (see LAMP  bibliography). The star system is our own. We're not sure that we have this exactly right, so comments are invited.

Vegetables - Pick Your Partners

Stars ****
     These are packed with Good Things, and are also easy to prepare.  We include more of these in our shopping bag, and seek opportunities to use them.
     Carrots,  red peppers, radishes, winter squashes, yams, potatoes.  
     All of the cruciferous vegetables:  broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, rutabagas, turnips, beets.
     Spinach, Swiss chard, beet greens (see note on other greens below).      
     Dried beans and lentils. 
     Dried fruits.
     Nuts are not vegetables, but they are plant-based and should be used. 
     Yogurt is not even plant-based, but it is packed with Good Things, and works well with vegetables.

     Note on Other Greens: kale, collards, mustard greens, and the like, are rated **** for nutrition, but these are more difficult to prepare, requiring much longer cooking, than the above. Use these if you are fond of them.  Strictly so far as nutrition is concerned, they don't seem to add anything not provided by spinach, chard, and beet greens.

Starlets***
     These are nutritious, but do not seem to carry the heavy endorsement of the Stars above.
     Tomatoes, peas, mushrooms. 

Supporting Actors **
     These have a decent amount of Good Things. Use them according to taste, recognizing their nutritional limitations.
     Onions, eggplant, lettuce, asparagus, green beans, summer squash.

For fun only *
     These have very little of nutritional significance. They are for entertainment only.
     Celery, cucumber, iceberg lettuce.