31 Powerful Vegetables That Start With P

Looking to expand your vegetable vocabulary? Discover a colorful array of vegetables that start with the letter “P”—from familiar favorites to unique surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious food lover, these vibrant vegetables are sure to add flavor and fun to your meals. Let’s explore the diverse world of produce that begins with “P”!

1. Pak Choi

Pak Choi, also known as Bok Choy, is a leafy green vegetable with crunchy stems and tender leaves. It adds a mild flavor to many dishes and is commonly used in stir-fries and soups.

• Calories per 100g: 13
• Vitamins: A, C, K
• Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium
• Fiber: Good source
• Antioxidants: Contains beta-carotene

Best eaten steamed, stir-fried, or added to soups for a nutritious boost.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, low-calorie, keto-friendly (small amounts). Pairs well with garlic and sesame oil.

2. Palm Heart

Palm Heart is the tender core of certain palm tree shoots, often used in salads and Mediterranean dishes. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a tender texture.

• Calories per 100g: 43
• Vitamins: C, B6
• Minerals: Iron, Magnesium
• Fiber: High
• Antioxidants: Present

Use it in salads, antipasto, or lightly pickled for added flavor. It’s great for adding texture and nutrition.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, low-calorie. Pairs well with olive oil and lemon.

3. Pandan

Pandan is a fragrant tropical plant whose leaves are used to flavor sweets and rice dishes. While not a vegetable eaten in chunks, its leaves add aroma to culinary preparations.

• Calories per 100g: 0
• Vitamins: Small amounts of Vitamin A
• Minerals: Calcium, Iron
• Fiber: Present
• Antioxidants: Yes

Typically used by boiling or infusing in liquids for flavoring desserts or rice.

Use in: Desserts, flavoring rice, teas.

4. Papalo

Papalo is a leafy herb with a strong, aromatic flavor similar to cilantro and mint. It’s often used fresh to enhance salads, salsas, and tacos.

• Calories per 100g: 23
• Vitamins: A, C
• Minerals: Calcium, Iron
• Fiber: Good source
• Anti-inflammatory: Contains beneficial compounds

Best enjoyed fresh, added to dishes just before serving.

Use in: Salads, salsas, garnishes.

5. Parsley

Parsley is a popular herb with bright green, curly or flat leaves. It adds freshness and a mild peppery flavor to many dishes.

• Calories per 100g: 36
• Vitamins: A, C, K
• Minerals: Iron, Calcium
• Fiber: Present
• Antioxidants: Flavonoids and vitamins

Use fresh in salads, as a garnish, or to flavor soups and broths.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, keto-friendly. Pairs well with lemon and olive oil.

6. Parsley Root

Parsley Root is a root vegetable with a flavor similar to parsley. It adds flavor to soups and stews and can be roasted or boiled.

• Calories per 100g: 54
• Vitamins: C, K
• Minerals: Potassium, Magnesium
• Fiber: High
• Anti-inflammatory properties

Best prepared by roasting, boiling, or adding to hearty dishes.

Use in: Soups, roasted vegetable mixes.

7. Parsnip

Parsnips are cream-colored root vegetables with a sweet, nutty flavor. They are versatile and good for roasting, boiling, or mashing.

• Calories per 100g: 75
• Vitamins: C, K
• Minerals: Potassium, Manganese
• Fiber: Rich
• Antioxidants: Yes

Enjoy roasted, mashed, or added to stews for added sweetness and nutrition.

Pair with herbs like thyme or rosemary.

8. Pattypan Squash

Pattypan Squash are small, round squashes with scalloped edges. They have a mild, buttery flavor and are great for stuffing or roasting.

• Calories per 100g: 20
• Vitamins: A, C
• Minerals: Potassium
• Fiber: Moderate
• Anti-inflammatory benefits

Eat roasted, grilled, or stuffed as a side dish.

9. Pea (Garden, Snow, Snap)

Peas are sweet, tender legumes eaten in various forms. They are rich in fiber and vitamins, perfect in salads, stir-fries, or eaten fresh.

• Calories per 100g: 81
• Vitamins: A, C, K
• Minerals: Manganese, Iron
• Fiber: Excellent source
• Rich in antioxidants

Use in salads, soups, or snack on fresh or dried peas.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, keto in moderation.

10. Pea Eggplant (Turkey Berry)

Pea Eggplant, or Turkey Berry, are small purple fruits used as vegetables in some cuisines. They have a bitter taste and are cooked in stews.

• Calories per 100g: 40
• Vitamins: C, A
• Minerals: Potassium
• Fiber: Moderate
• Potential anti-inflammatory properties

Typically cooked in curries or stews to reduce bitterness.

11. Pea Shoots

Pea Shoots are the young leaves and tendrils of the pea plant. They are crunchy and sweet, perfect raw or lightly cooked.

• Calories per 100g: 35
• Vitamins: A, C, folate
• Minerals: Potassium, Iron
• Fiber: High
• Antioxidants: Yes

Enjoy fresh in salads or use as garnishes.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, low-calorie. Pairs well with garlic and sesame oil.

12. Peanut (Botanically Legume)

Peanuts are technically legumes but are used culinarily as vegetables or snacks. They are rich in healthy fats and protein.

• Calories per 100g: 567
• Vitamins: B3 (Niacin), E
• Minerals: Magnesium, Phosphorus
• Fiber: Good source
• Antioxidants: Resveratrol

Consume roasted as snacks, or use peanut butter in spreads and desserts.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, high-calorie. Pair with fruits or in smoothies.

13. Pearl Onion

Pearl Onions are small, sweet onions often used in pickling, salads, or as garnishes. They add mild onion flavor.

• Calories per 100g: 41
• Vitamins: C, B6
• Minerals: Manganese, Calcium
• Fiber: Moderate
• Anti-inflammatory compounds

Great for pickling, roasting, or adding to stews and salads.

14. Pepper (Bell, Chili, etc.)

Peppers come in many varieties, from sweet bell peppers to hot chili peppers. They are rich in Vitamins A and C and antioxidants.

• Calories per 100g: 31 (bell), 40-50 (chili)
• Vitamins: A, C, E
• Minerals: Potassium
• Fiber: Good source
• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

Use fresh, roasted, or dried in a variety of dishes to add flavor and vitamin boost.

Diet Compatibility: Vegetarian, vegan, keto (small amounts).

15. Pepper Squash (Acorn Squash)

Pepper Squash, also known as Acorn Squash, has a sweet, nutty flavor and soft texture when cooked.

• Calories per 100g: 40
• Vitamins: A, C
• Minerals: Potassium
• Fiber: Moderate
• Anti-inflammatory benefits

Good when roasted, stuffed, or baked.

16. Peruvian Purple Potato

Peruvian Purple Potato is a vibrant tuber with a rich purple color and earthy flavor. It is packed with antioxidants called anthocyanins.

• Calories per 100g: 87
• Vitamins: C, B6
• Minerals: Potassium, Iron
• Fiber: High
• Strong antioxidant properties

Use boiled, mashed, or roasted for colorful, nutritious dishes.

17. Pickles (Cucumbers)

Pickles are cucumbers that have been fermented or preserved in vinegar. They are crisp and tangy, often used as snacks or condiments.

• Calories per 100g: 11
• Vitamins: K
• Minerals: Sodium, Manganese
• Fiber: Present
• Probiotic benefits if fermented

Enjoy as a snack, in sandwiches, or salads.

18. Pigeon Pea

Pigeon Peas are small, green legumes used in hearty dishes like soups and stews, rich in protein and fiber.

• Calories per 100g: 343 (cooked)
• Vitamins: B-vitamins
• Minerals: Iron, Potassium
• Excellent fiber source
• Potential anti-inflammatory properties

Typically cooked in curries, soups, or salads.

19. Pignut

Pignut is a small root vegetable with a nutty flavor, usually cooked in stews or roasted.

• Calories per 100g: 80
• Vitamins: C
• Minerals: Potassium
• Fiber: Good dietary fiber
• Contains antioxidants

Enjoy roasted or added to hearty dishes for flavor.

20. Pink Bean

Pink Beans are small, pink-colored beans valued for their sweet, earthy flavor. Used in chili, salads, or cooked as a side.

• Calories per 100g: 127
• Vitamins: B vitamins
• Minerals: Iron, Magnesium
• High in fiber and protein
• antioxidative properties

Perfect for chili, salads, or side dishes.

21. Pinto Bean

Pinto Beans are popular in Mexican cuisine, known for their creamy texture and earthy flavor. They are high in fiber and protein.

• Calories per 100g: 143
• Vitamins: B1, B6
• Minerals: Iron, Folate
• High fiber content
• Rich in antioxidants

Cooked in chili, burritos, or seasoned as a side.

22. Pitwaa

Pitwaa is a less common vegetable, often used in traditional dishes. Details vary, but it generally has a mild flavor and can be cooked or boiled.

• Calories per 100g: Varies
• Vitamins and minerals: Varies
• Fiber: Present
• Uses: Stews and soups

23. Plum Tomato

Plum Tomatoes are oval-shaped and used primarily for sauces and cooking due to their dense flesh.

• Calories per 100g: 18
• Vitamins: C and K
• Minerals: Potassium
• Fiber: Good
• Contains antioxidants like lycopene

Great in sauces, pastes, or fresh salads.

24. Pointed Cabbage

Pointed Cabbage has elongated, tight leaves with a mild flavor. It’s crisp and good raw or cooked.

• Calories per 100g: 25
• Vitamins: C, K
• Minerals: Calcium, Iron
• Fiber: High

Eat raw in salads or sauté with spices.

25. Potato (All Varieties)

Potatoes are a versatile root vegetable available in many varieties like white, red, and purple. They are rich in carbs and vitamin C.

• Calories per 100g: 77
• Vitamins: C, B6
• Minerals: Potassium, Magnesium
• Fiber: Moderate
• Contains antioxidants

Use in baking, boiling, mashing, or frying.

26. Prickly Pear Cactus Pads (Nopales)

Nopales are cactus pads with a slightly tart flavor, rich in fiber and antioxidants.

• Calories per 100g: 16
• Vitamins: C, A
• Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium
• High in fiber

Cook by grilling, boiling, or scrambling into eggs.

27. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a orange-fleshed squash, rich in vitamins A and C. It’s sweet and can be roasted, pureed, or added to soups.

• Calories per 100g: 26
• Vitamins: A, C
• Minerals: Potassium, Iron
• Fiber: Good source
• Contains antioxidants

Enjoy roasted, soups, or baked goods.

28. Purple Asparagus

Purple Asparagus is tender with a slightly sweeter flavor than green. It’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

• Calories per 100g: 20
• Vitamins: A, C, K
• Minerals: Iron, Calcium
• Fiber: Good

Best grilled, roasted, or steamed.

29. Purple Sprouting Broccoli

This vibrant broccoli has a mild, sweet flavor and high nutrient content, especially vitamins C and K.

• Calories per 100g: 34
• Vitamins: C, K
• Minerals: Potassium, Iron
• High in antioxidants

Enjoy steamed, roasted, or stir-fried.

30. Purple Sweet Potato

Purple Sweet Potato is a colorful tuber loaded with antioxidants called anthocyanins, with a sweet flavor.

• Calories per 100g: 90
• Vitamins: A, C
• Minerals: Potassium, Manganese
• High fiber

Eat baked, mashed, or roasted for a nutritious treat.

31. Purslane

Purslane is a leafy vegetable with a slightly sour, lemony flavor. It’s high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

• Calories per 100g: 16
• Vitamins: A, C
• Minerals: Magnesium, Calcium
• Rich in omega-3

Use fresh in salads or smoothies for added nutrition.