Believe it or not, you can have your fries and eat them, too. Sweet potato fries, that is! When you swap out white potatoes for sweet potatoes, you add a lot of nutritional value, and if you roast them instead of frying, they’re even healthier.

Winter root vegetables are often overlooked in favor of the more popular kale, broccoli and the like. But root vegetables are not only deliciously versatile, they’re also full of health benefits.

Turkey necks are an often overlooked cut of the bird, as they have little substance compared to meatier cuts like breasts and wings. However, they are a welcome ingredient in many different dishes, and are adept at providing a deep and comforting flavor to many meals.

Foil packets filled with potatoes are a convenient side dish for the grill, but you can use the same method to prepare potatoes in your oven. The tightly sealed foil packets lock in steam, allowing the potatoes to become creamy and tender. Best of all, cleanup is a breeze. Simply discard the aluminum foil and enjoy.

Beef brisket is a traditional southern smokey barbecue treat made from the breast of the cow and slow cooked until tender and juicy. When planning a menu to accompany your brisket, consider dishes that will complement the heavy, smoky flavor of the beef while working within the barbecue theme of the meal.

Whole grains, including oats and brown or wild rice, are essential for overall good health and may reduce your risk of hyperlipidemia and heart disease, according to the American Heart Association.

The glycemic index is a measure of how your body handles sugar. Foods are given a score as to how they compare to glucose. Glucose has a score of 100. High-glycemic foods, such as white bread, will have a score of 70 and above. Medium-glycemic foods, such as raisins, will have a score of 56-69.