Root Vegetables and Exotic Fruits Month in December encourages us to explore these fruit and vegetable bins the next time we shop. Although we may not think of them this way, root vegetables are the staple of many recipes. This month, add some exotic fruits to those recipes to change it up a little for the holidays, and WOW your friends and family with your creative dishes!

HOW TO OBSERVE #RootVegetablesExoticFruitsMonth

During the celebration, explore the offerings at your local grocery. You might be surprised by what may be in season. Then, find the recipes that work best for you and your family. These exciting fruits and vegetables have a lot to offer and will enhance your meals all month long and into the months to come. Create new habits for you and your family. You might find more variety than you've ever experienced before. Root Vegetables and Exotic Fruits Month challenges you to try something new so be sure to make it a celebration!

Fan-Favorite Root Vegetables:

1. Celery root
2. Onion
3. Parsnip
4. Potato
5. Radish
6. Rutabaga
7. Sweet Potato
8. Turnip

Root veggies are great because they provide complex carbs and starch, they're high in fiber, they can help you lose weight, they contain tons of vitamins and minerals, and even contain anti-cancer antioxidants. Add these to almost any recipe for a nutritious boost and great flavor.

Scrumptious Exotic Fruits:

1. Chom Chom (Rambutan)
2. Durian
3. Mangosteen
4. Longan
5. Persimmon
6. Sapodilla
7. Jackfruit (this one is even used as a meat replacement for vegetarians and vegans!)
8. Dragonfruit

Exotic fruits are delicious and a fun addition to meals, especially because they are a bit harder to come by in the United States. These fruits contain large amounts of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, iron, and phosphorus. Can you say, delicious and nutritious?

Root Vegetables and Exotic Fruits Month is an excellent opportunity to perk up your eating habits. Exchange your normal fruits and veggies with something a little different.

Use #RootVegetablesAndExoticFruitsMonth to post pictures and recipes on your social media pages this month! Root veggies are easy to find at most grocery stores, but exotic fruits, not so much. We've compiled a couple of lists of the most loved root vegetables and exotic fruits you can find in the U.S. Keep your eyes peeled!