WANT EVEN MORE HEALTHY IDEAS FROM SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
It’s finally fall, y’all! Dust off your cozy sweaters, turn on some football and hit up the pumpkin patch. Oh, and visit your grocery store for seasonal produce! Not sure what’s in season? This list can inspire some healthy fall recipes.
Here are 8 tasty fall fruits and veggies to try this season!
Apples
Apple orchards are overflowing in the fall, making these fall fruits easily accessible at most grocery stores for affordable prices. You can find crunchy, juicy, tart or sweet options perfect for healthy fall recipes.
Health benefits: An apple a day may not actually keep the doctor away, but it may help you make fewer visits! Apples are high in fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants, which support digestion, immunity and low cholesterol while boosting energy.
Apples with peanut butter and fruit dip are a snack-time staple. If you’re looking for more ways to use your fall haul, try these healthy fall recipes:
- Chia, Apple and Cinnamon Oatmeal
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Apples
- Baked Apples
- Apple Cinnamon Infused Water
- Apple Crumble
Looking for more ways to use your apples? Browse these recipes.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are harvested in the fall, and their hearty flavor and deep orange color make them seasonal in more ways than one!
Health benefits: Sweet potatoes are LOADED with vitamins and minerals. They support healthy vision, skin and immune function while keeping you full and satisfied.
With a little olive oil, a sheet pan and an oven, you can whip up an easy side dish or fall appetizer. You could also try one of these healthy fall recipes:
- Southwest Sweet Potato Skillet
- Sheet Pan Sweet Potato Nachos
- Sweet Potato Pie
- Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes
Wanting more recipes? Try these!
Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Spaghetti)
Despite being called “winter squash,” butternut, acorn and spaghetti squash are all harvested in fall. They’re extremely versatile and make healthy swaps or additions to tons of dishes.
Health benefits: Winter squash is high in magnesium and potassium. These nutrients can help reduce inflammation and maintain strong bones.
Roasted squash makes a great fall appetizer or side dish on its own. Just add olive oil, salt and pepper. For fresh flavors and meal options, try one of these:
Looking for more squash-centric recipes? Look here!
Pumpkins
You can’t talk about fall fruits and veggies without mentioning pumpkins! This seasonal superfood is a shining star for almost every meal of the day!
Health benefits: If you think pumpkins are just for carving, think again. The potassium and other nutrients in pumpkins can boost your digestion and regulate blood pressure.
Think beyond the pumpkin spice lattes and try these healthy fall recipes instead:
- Spiced Pumpkin Nut Bread
- Yellow Curry Pumpkin Soup
- Pumpkin Spice Pumpkin Seeds
- Easy Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes
Can’t get enough pumpkin? Try these healthy recipes!
Carrots
When carrots are in season, they bring sweet flavor and crunch to every meal! Plus, they have a longer shelf life than other produce when stored in the fridge and are easily enjoyed raw or cooked. That’s why they’re so perfect for fall.
Health benefits: Carrots are high in vitamin A, which supports healthy eyes and glowing skin. Like a lot of other fall fruits and veggies on this list, their fiber content can help you stay regular and feel good.
There are tons of healthy ways to enjoy carrots, like packing baby carrots and hummus in your lunchbox. You can also try one of these healthy fall recipes:
- Easy Oven-Roasted Carrots
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
- Sesame Snap Peas With Carrots and Peppers
- Maple-Glazed Carrots
Still have carrots on your mind? Browse more recipes!
Cabbage
Cabbage is a nutrient-packed powerhouse that complements tons of soups, salads and other dishes. Its light flavor lets other produce and spices shine while adding a slight crunch.
Health benefits: Cabbage is loaded with vitamins C and K, making it a great, heart-healthy option that also boosts immunity.
You can add cabbage to almost anything, but here are a few healthy fall recipes to get you started:
See more ways you can add cabbage to your menu with these recipes.
Spinach
Spinach is one of the most versatile veggies out there. It’s great all year long, but is harvested in the fall, making it a little less bitter and more affordable.
Health benefits: Spinach has a lot going for it, but one of its unique nutrients is iron. It’s great for brain function as well as bone and muscle health.
Stir this leafy green into any pasta or soup, or try one of these recipes:
Have some spinach left over? Check out these other recipes!
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are making a comeback! These tiny cabbages pack a lot of flavor and can elevate almost any meal.
Health benefits: Brussels sprouts contain several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K and fiber. They also contain nutrients that support a healthy liver and other bodily functions.
The key to enjoying Brussels sprouts is to cook them the right way. Here are some healthy fall recipes to help you get inspired:
Hungry for more? Explore these recipes!
Whether you’re shopping at the farmers market or your local grocery store, don’t brush past these fall fruits and veggies. Try something new and see how you feel! Your taste buds and your body will thank you.
Looking for more ways to add healthy habits to your fall routine? Check out these exercises you can do anywhere!