A parsnip is a hardy root veggie (which is why it's so popular in cold-climate countries). It looks like a carrot, but is white. It's not all that exciting served alone, but is very popular in stews, soups (parsnip soup is one of the tastiest soups), and a sweet healthy alternative to french fried potatoes. Parsnips are considered to be a very healthy vegetable, supposedly one of the healthiest, but I'm not so sure about that claim.