Happy first day of fall!
There are some great things about summer, especially with regards to fruits and vegetables, but the end of warm weather doesn’t need to mean the start of a boring, bland diet with no variety. Never fear! Some of the most flavorful and nutritious fruits and veggies are getting ready to come into season, and we all know that in season foods are higher in vitamins and minerals.
Take your meal planning to the next level with some of these delicious choices, full of fall color and flavor and guaranteed to satisfy.
- Apples – portable, packable and full of endless possibilities, apples are full of fiber and low in calories.There are literally hundreds of varieties available – I wait all year to be able to enjoy Honeycrisp apples. Top whole grain waffles with sliced apples, or send them in a lunch box with peanut butter for dipping. Or for a twist, add them to a Caramel Apple Milkshake!
- Pears – also full of fiber, pears have endless uses. Enjoy a Blue Cheese and Pear Salad to maximize the absorption of Vitamin C.
- Acorn Squash – Known for its bright color and incredible storage time, Acorn Squash is enjoyable simply sliced in half and baked, but is also delicious stuffed.
- Butternut Squash – A rich source of Vitamins A and C, Butternut Squash is delicious baked with a sprinkle of brown sugar or extra special in a White Bean Butternut Squash Ragout with Polenta Squares.
- Pumpkin – most commonly known as the “Halloween Fruit”, pumpkin is full of beta carotene. Often found in pie, pumpkin can also be served in pancakes, muffins and even smoothies.
- Sweet Potatoes – high in Vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are delicious baked and topped with cinnamon, in baked fries or even as an ingredient in a healthy and delicious burger.
- Broccoli – Available year round, Broccoli is at it’s best in the fall. Full of beta-carotene and Vitamin C, it is classified as a SuperFood. Delicious steamed and topped with lemon juice, it’s also a great addition to a salad and make for a great addition to a baked potato bar.