Fall foods are nothing short of extraordinary. They call it the Harvest Season for a reason! Nature’s bounty is waiting for us to cook-up something cozy and magnificent.
As you celebrate the trademarks of fall, like cooling temps, knit sweaters and bonfires, don’t forget to break out your recipe book! Using all the diverse fall foods currently in season, get creative and whip-up a plate that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Must-have Healthy Fall Foods
Apples of All Varieties
Apples pack a ton of antioxidants and fiber, making them great for your digestive system. By themselves, they are great with a touch of cinnamon and honey. Want to heat them up? Bake them for a tangy twist in a sheet pan meal or slice them into apple crisps.
Apples can also be used to make a glaze for chicken or pork, or even a refreshing slaw. And of course, they’re perfect for your favorite apple pie, tart or trifle recipe.
Cranberries beyond the Sauce
With their sweet and tangy flavor profile, cranberries are a staple of fall. Yes, they’re perfect for making a dip for your family’s Thanksgiving turkey, but you can use them for so much more! As an appetizer, they are great on top of goat cheese or made into cheese brie bites. You can also roast them with Brussels sprouts, bacon and sweet potato cubes.
Rutabagas
Think of rutabagas as a cross between cabbage and turnips. You can use it as a potato substitute in soups, stews, fries and casseroles. They can even be eaten as noodles if you use a spiralizer. Perhaps one of its most popular forms is “mashed rutabaga,” which can be jazzed up with cheese, chives and spices. You can also mix it with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Kale
Kale offers a bunch of fiber as well as vitamins A and C. Mix it into your favorite salads or use it as a garnish for pastas and pizzas. They are also popular in soups, frittatas and on their own as kale chips. You can also saute them with garlic and low-fat cheese for a super side.
Acorn Squash
Another staple of the season! They work great when stuffed with ingredients like mushrooms, feta cheese, quinoa, sliced zucchini, beans, onions, Ricotta cheese and herbs. You can also pair it with roasted or grilled meat in place of mashed potatoes. Add fresh onions, garlic, herbs and spices. Many people choose to add acorn squash as a bonus ingredient in pastas or salads.
Other Healthy Fall Foods:
- Artichokes, Brussels sprouts, beets, broccoli
- Carrots, cabbage, pumpkin, russet potatoes, turnips
- Pecans and walnuts
Looking for some tasty Autumn recipes that are already thought-out? CLICK HERE for a few ideas.
