Cooked vegetables are vegetables that have been heated through various methods, such as boiling, steaming, roasting, or sautéing. This process softens their texture, enhances their flavors, and makes them easier to digest. Common cooked vegetables include carrots, broccoli, and spinach, which can be enjoyed as side dishes or incorporated into main meals. Cooking vegetables can also increase the availability of certain nutrients, making them more beneficial for health. For example, cooking tomatoes can boost the levels of lycopene, an antioxidant. However, overcooking can lead to nutrient loss, so it's important to find the right balance.