Summer is over, and now we begin the favorite season of many! Fall is about sweet mornings, hectic afternoons, and cozy nights. Also, about eating more substantial and tasty foods, like casseroles, pies, or soups.
While you can eat healthy all year long, fall is the perfect time to shop for these 9 fruits and vegetables and discover their full yummy potential:
Apples:
Have you heard of the quote “an apple a day will keep the doctor away”? The best time to eat an apple is in mid-summer to late fall. Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Eating them lowers the risks of many chronic conditions, including diabetes, and is magnificent for weight maintenance and skin care. Apples have high levels of quercetin, which helps reduce cellar deaths, memory loss, and brain health.
Brussels sprouts:
Brussels sprouts are high in protein and carbs, fiber, vitamins K, C, A, folate, and manganese. These antioxidants help promote bone health and gut health. Vitamin C helps to boost iron absorption and tissue repair.
Fun Fact: Brussels sprouts smell when you cook them, but when gently steamed, they have a sweet, nutty flavor, and a crisp texture.
Cauliflower:
Naturally high in fiber and B vitamins. It provides antioxidants and phytonutrients that can protect against cancer. Be warned, it can give you gas! Cauliflowers are low-carb, lower-calorie produce and an exceptional substitute for rice or poultry.
Recommended Recipe: Chef Julia’s Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad for hectic afternoons. It takes 5 to 10 minutes to make and less than a minute to devour!
Figs:
Figs are great for rainy days in the fall because they are a good source of calcium and potassium. They promote bone health. Eating figs help to improve bone density and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Keep in mind that figs are in season for September only!
Celery:
One of our favorite snacks from yesteryear. Celery is one produce you can do a lot with, dip in peanut butter, sauté with squash, and chew to promote healthy blood flow. Additionally, celery is an excellent source of vitamins A, B2, B6, C, K, phosphorus, potassium, fiber, folate, and manganese, all things that are great for nerve health.
Recommended Recipe: Celery is a snack for a rainy weekend and the perfect ingredient for vegan dinner dishes. Check out Veghead Chef Tina’s Chicken + Fennel Soup
Kale:
The queen of greens, it is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and copper. Potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus. It’s great in smoothies and a substitute for beef.
Lettuce:
Lettuce is a vitamin K source that helps strengthen the bone. It also contains water, keeps your body hydrated as you eat, and lowers cholesterol. Whether you’re eating it plain or in a salad, lettuce helps to regulate, hydrate, and motivate your body.
Pears:
Pear is a super fruit that promotes heart, bone, and gut health. Fiber regulates and prevents constipation; vitamins K, A, and C increase vision and bone density and contain flavonoid antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and the risk of heart disease.
Squashes:
Butternut, acorn, delicate squash, and sweet potatoes are amazing options as a side dish. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also turn them into a patty, as Chef Julia points out in her recipe for a healthy burger.
They are a great source of vitamins such as A, B, and C. As whole plant foods, they’re also rich in fiber and water.
Stay tuned for the final edition of What’s in Season. Please let us know what produce you’re adding to your “fall in between” list.
Thinking about hosting a party but need help in the kitchen? Send us a message, and we can start creating the perfect menu for you and your loved ones.
Are you looking for healthy recipes to start? Check out Health Chef’s Instagram for fun, seasonal cooking ideas you can make at home.
