Vegetables That Start with R

In need of some rare and unique ingredients? Discover the many R-Vegetables of the world. From Radishes to Rutabagas, we’ve got the perfect dish for any occasion. Get cooking with all the Vegetables that start with R today!

Sliced red cabbage has this text over it: Vegetables that Start with R.

As a vegan food blogger, exploring the diverse world of plant-based ingredients is an exciting journey. I’m happy to share this journey with you, whether you’re playing a game and looking for R vegetables or simply wanting to explore different vegetables with me!

From robust flavors to nutritional benefits, these vegetables add a unique twist to your plant-based meals. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or curious about new veggies, this guide will introduce you to some fantastic R veggies.

Do you like learning about veggies? Check out this post on Vegetables That Start with K!

This post is part of my series, Increase your VEGGIE IQ. From radishes to rutabagas, let’s explore all of the tastiness these Vegetables That Start with R can offer. Boost your veggie knowledge today with this quick and easy guide!

What’s missing from this list of vegetables that start with the letter R? Do you know others I should consider adding? You can leave a comment below and let me know so I can add it to the list!

Trivia

Which group of super healthy veggies do radishes belong to? It’s surprising to see what other veggies are related to radishes. Scroll below to get the answer!

1. Radishes


Radishes are crisp, peppery, and vibrant in color. They’re also one of the most common vegetables that start with R. You can easily grow them in your yard. Or you can buy them at farmer’s markets and most grocery stores!

They come in a number of varieties, including the classic red, black, and even watermelon radishes. Radishes are not only delicious in salads but also make for crunchy snacks when sliced and served with some smoky spiced hummus or your favorite dip.

They’re a great source of vitamin C and fiber, perfect for boosting your immune system.

Radishes are bunched together with their root ends pointing toward the camera and the greens visible in the background.

2. Rakkyo

Rakkyo, also known as Chinese scallion, is a small, onion-like bulb with a mild and sweet flavor. You can pickle rakkyo and use it as a condiment or garnish in Asian cuisines.

Chopsticks hold a rakkyo onion hovering over more of them in a bowl.

3. Ramps


Ramps, also known as wild leeks, are wild onions with a delicate onion-garlic flavor. They have vibrant green leaves and slender stalks. You can forage for ramps in the spring. Ramps are popular in various dishes like pesto, salads, and brunch dishes like this Just Egg Quiche Recipe.

Experts suggest that ramps can last 4 days when stored properly. Bon Appetit offers some excellent ramp storage tips. For example, don’t wash them, instead wrap the roots in damp paper towels and store them in a plastic bag in the fridge.

A basket of freshly-picked ramps sits in front of a field with more ramps waiting to be picked.

4. Ramson

Ramson, also known as wild garlic, is a leafy green herb with a strong garlic flavor. You can use ramson in many dishes, including soups, pestos, and as a garnish for salads.

I once had a friend give me a bouquet of “flowers” that turned out to be herbs. I think ramson would work well in a bouquet!

5. Rapini

Rapini, also known as broccoli rabe, is a leafy green vegetable with small broccoli-like florets. It has a slightly bitter taste. That’s why it’s usually sautéed or blanched before adding it to pasta or served as a side dish. It would pair nicely with this Garlic Pasta recipe.

Mustard rapini bunches are in baskets and a sign sits in front, implying this image is taken at a farmer's market. The sign reads, Golden frills mustard rapini $3.50 per bunch.

6. Rampion

Rampion, also known as raperonzolo or wild spinach, is a leafy green vegetable with a mild, spinach-like flavor. Use it in salads, sautés, or serve it as a side dish.

7. Red Bell Peppers


While you might be familiar with green and yellow bell peppers, don’t overlook the vibrant red ones. Red bell peppers are sweeter and packed with vitamins A and C.

They’re excellent for stuffing with grains and veggies, grilling, or adding to stir-fries for a burst of color and flavor.

You can use red bell peppers to make this easy vegan stuffed peppers recipe.

A photo looking down on a bunch of red bell peppers, all with their stems pointing up.

8. Red Cabbage

Looking for healthy vegetables that start with R? Look no further than red cabbage!

Sure, red cabbage is a dense, purple or red-colored cabbage. But it’s also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. You can use red cabbage to make delicious, colorful plant-based coleslaws, salads, and pickled dishes.

Looking down on several red cabbage, one of which has been cut in half, showing off the layers inside.

9. Red Leaf Lettuce

Red leaf lettuce has loose, red-tinged leaves with a mild and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a popular choice for salads and sandwiches, adding a pop of color and freshness.

10. Red Onions

Red onions have a deep purple skin and a milder, sweeter flavor compared to yellow or white onions. Use red onions in salads, salsas, and as a garnish for various dishes.

A closeup of several red onions.

11. Red Potatoes

Red potatoes have a red color on the outside (referred to as the skin) and creamy white flesh inside. They are versatile and can be roasted, mashed, or used in potato salads.

Red potatoes are known for their waxy texture. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use them in dishes like mashed potatoes. In fact, I love these Vegan Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes.

Looking down on a big bunch of red potatoes, showing off their bright pink skins.

12. Rhubarb


Rhubarb is a unique vegetable often used in desserts and jams. Its tartness pairs wonderfully with sweet fruits like strawberries.

Try making a vegan rhubarb crisp or compote for a delightful treat. Just be sure to remove the leaves, as they are toxic.

A closeup of brightly colored rhubarb stems, with the green ends barely visible.

13. Ricebean

Ricebeans are small, round legumes that resemble rice grains. They are commonly used in Asian cuisines and can be prepared in various ways, such as in soups, stews, or as a side dish.

14. Rock Samphire

Rock samphire is a coastal plant with small, succulent leaves. It has a slightly salty and tangy flavor, making it a popular ingredient in pickles, salads, and as a seasoning for fish dishes.

An image of rock samphire growing on a cliff next to the ocean.

15. Rocket (aka, Arugula)


Rocket, also known as arugula, is a leafy green with a peppery taste. It’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, and as a pizza topping. This nutrient-dense green is rich in vitamins K and A, making it a valuable addition to your plant-based diet.

A photo of rocket greens in a bowl. One of the greens is sitting next to the bowl.

16. Romanesco

Romanesco is a visually stunning vegetable with intricate fractal-like patterns. It’s a type of cauliflower, and its mild, nutty flavor makes it a versatile ingredient for roasting or adding to pasta dishes.

Romanesco is a great source of vitamin C and fiber.

A closeup of romanesco vegetables showing off the bright green vegetable.

17. Roma Tomatoes

Roma tomatoes, also known as plum tomatoes, are oval-shaped and have fewer seeds and thicker flesh than regular tomatoes. They are perfect for making sauces, pastes, and canning due to their rich, concentrated flavor.

A closeup of Roma tomatoes on the vine, sitting on a white counter.

18. Rosa Bianca Eggplant

Rosa Bianca eggplants are small, round, and have a beautiful lavender and white striped skin. They have a mild, creamy taste and are ideal for grilling, roasting, or adding to Mediterranean-style dishes.

A photo of rosa Bianca eggplants stacked together.

19. Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce is known for its long, crisp leaves and slightly bitter taste. It’s commonly used in salads, wraps, and sandwiches. Romaine lettuce is rich in vitamins A and K.

A closeup photo of romaine lettuce heads sitting next to each other.

20. Runner Beans

Runner beans are long, slender, and green with a slightly sweet flavor. They are often used in stir-fries, casseroles, or simply steamed as a side dish. Runner beans are a good source of fiber and vitamin C.

A photo of runner beans, showing bright pink and purple beans in the center.

21. Russet Potatoes

Russet potatoes are large, brown-skinned, and have a starchy texture. They are commonly used for baking, mashing, and frying, making them perfect for making crispy french fries or creamy mashed potatoes.

Try using russets to make these crispy Air Fryer French Fried Potatoes.

A photo of russet potatoes on a cutting board, some of them are sliced.

22. Rutabagas


Rutabagas may not be as common as other root vegetables, but they offer a delightful earthy flavor. They’re versatile and can be roasted, mashed, or used in soups and stews.

Rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, rutabagas are a must-try for any plant-based enthusiast looking to add depth to their dishes.

A picture of rutabagas sitting on a wooden cutting board.

Trivia Answer

Radishes belong to the elite super foods known as cruciferous vegetables. That means they’re bunched up with cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and kale!

More Alphabet Vegetables

If you love this guide to Vegetables that Start with the Letter R, here are more “alphabet soup” veggie lists to ponder:

Conclusion

Exploring vegetables that start with R can open up new culinary horizons for your kitchen journey.

These veggies offer different flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits that can elevate all of your recipes.

Whether you’re preparing a vibrant salad with radishes and rocket or indulging in a sweet rhubarb dessert, these R veggies are worth incorporating into your plant-based meals.

Remember, plant-based cuisine is diverse and delicious, and these vegetables are just a small taste of what it has to offer. Happy cooking!

This infographic is titled, Vegetables that Start with R. There are graphic images of vegetables below it with this text: Radishes
An edible root with a spicy flavor; Ramps
A garlicky, wild spring onion; Red Bell Peppers
A milder pepper flavor; Red Onions
Their vibrant color is perfect in raw salads;  Rhubarb
Red, tart, stalks used in desserts; Romanesco
Like cauliflower, but green. The text at the bottom reads, for more R Vegetables,  go to: namelymarly.com.

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