Five Produce Favorites For Fall
The changing seasons doesn’t just mean cooler weather and different wardrobes. It also means the types of produce available and in-season are different as well. So, like our post on summer produce, we are sharing 5 of our favorite fruits and veggies that are perfect for Autumn and are accompanied by why they are a savvy choice to eat and a delicious recipe.. Ready? Let’s go!
1.Apples
Health Benefits
We’ve all heard the saying, “an apple a day…” Well, there is good reason why that phrase exists. Apples are chock full of health benefits. According to BBC Good Food, these include lowering cholesterol, preventing diabetes, reducing chances of obesity, protecting against heart disease, and improving bone health. And when we think “Autumn produce”, apples are definitely top of the list! Apple picking on a cool, crisp day - sign us up!
Recipe
We love this Healthy Apple Muffins recipe. These muffins make for a satisfying breakfast and because they can be baked up ahead of time and stored, they are super convenient.
2. Cabbage
Health Benefits
Cabbage is filled with good-for-you nutrients. One of those is sulforaphane, which may help prevent cancer. Additionally, cabbage is high in vitamin K, which makes nutrients necessary for blood clotting and bone building. Even more - cabbage has a compound called 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) that protects against radiation. It is such a such a versatile veggie!
Recipe
For a cabbage recipe that screams Fall, we like cooking up this Braised Root Vegetables and Cabbage with Fall Fruit recipe. Simply delicious.
3. Figs
Health Benefits
Figs have long been associated with positive health benefits. In fact, as described by this article by Web MD, “they’re symbolically linked to Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility, and were offered to the god Bacchus in ancient Rome.” Modern day understanding of this fruit shows that figs have the potential to reduce high blood pressure, improve the digestive system, and increase bone density. Additionally, they are naturally cholesterol and fat-free. We say, if they’re good enough for ancient gods, they’re good enough for us!
Recipe
While we enjoy eating figs straight up, we also find this No Bake Fig Newton Bites recipe awesome. This healthy version of a childhood treat tastes like nostalgia.
4. Leeks
Health Benefits
We LIVE for peak leek season. Not only do they make our taste buds happy, but they also make our bodies happy too. They possess various nutrients that can prevent heart attacks, bolster one’s immune system, improve vision, and can even reduce fatigue! We didn’t need more reasons to consume this delicious green veggie, but we got them!
Recipe
Few things are more satisfying than a warm and comforting soup on a cool Autumn evening, and leeks are a perfect ingredient for soup. We recommend this Slow-Cooker Carrot and Leek Bisque, which is made even better because of the convenience of using a slow cooker. The smells that fill your house will have you salivating before you even taste it!
5. Pears
Health Benefits
There are over 100 varieties of pears, and, like figs, have been around for thousands of years. Also like figs, they are highly nutritious and provide many health benefits. These include supporting gut health, improving immune system functioning, strengthen blood vessels, and reduce inflammation. They are also a healthy way to satiate a sweet tooth, so can assist in weight loss.
Recipe
Simple and satisfying, this Healthy Baked Pear recipe is a go-to for us when we are wanting a dessert but want a healthy option. Not to mention the flavors scream Fall.
What’s your favorite produce product for the season? Let us know in the comments!
Photo by Sharon Pittaway on Unsplash
