Chances are your kitchen is filled with fruits and veggies that come from trees, bushes and gardens -- but don't forget about those that grow under the surface. Root vegetables -- like beets, radishes, turnips and carrots -- are just as delicious, equally nutritious and less expensive, which is always welcome during these tough times. Over at Calorie Lab, registered dietitian Karen Collins is raving about roots -- here are some things you should know about them:

• They're high in nutrients. For example, beets and parsnips have high levels of folate, and Jicama and celeriac have vitamin C.
• They're cheap and readily available, even in winter.
• They're easy to cook -- you can steam them in the microwave or bake them.
  
• They taste good on their own -- just add a bit of olive oil and some spices and you've got a great side dish.

For more dirt on roots, head over to Calorie Lab and let us know how you like to prepare yours.