Vegetables represent a broad category of foods derived from plants that are consumed both raw and cooked. They are an important source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and are essential for a healthy diet. Vegetables can be classified according to the edible part of the plant: roots (such as carrots, beets, or potatoes), tubers (such as sweet potatoes), leaves (such as lettuce, spinach, or cabbage), flowers (such as cauliflower or broccoli), or fruits (such as tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants).