Fall is an exciting time of the year! It is a season full of Holidays, fun outdoor activities, and most importantly, cozy and delicious recipes! I love to bake tasty desserts with freshly hand-picked apples, or whip up some filling soups with root vegetables straight from the garden. You may be wondering which ingredients are in season, what their benefits are, and how to incorporate them into your weekly line-up… Let me show you!
Apples
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, and there’s plenty of reasons why! Apples are rich in antioxidants, flavanoids and dietary fiber, helping you to reach your daily nutrient needs! Apples are also said to improve neurological health, reduce risk of stroke and prevent obesity by feeding the good bacteria in our stomachs! Apples also have a delicious, crisp taste! You can use apples to naturally sweeten up a savoury dish.
What can I cook with Apples?
Figs
Somehow, many people have made it through half of their lives without tasting a fig! How sad! While figs are often eaten dried or roasted, fresh figs are delicious as well! The flesh of the fruit is sweet and chewy, while their seeds add a nice crunch! Figs are also VERY good for you! They contain plenty of essential nutrients and vitamins, including vitamins A, B1, B2, calcium, iron, phosphorus, manganese and potassium. Figs may help to prevent constipation, lower cholesterol and prevent hypertension!
What can I cook with Figs?
Cauliflower
I love Cauliflower because it is such a versatile food that be used as a substitute for many carb-heavy and starchy dishes.This veggie helps to boost heart health and brain health! Cauliflower contains vitamins C, K and B6 as well as protein, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium and fiber! Due to its rich nutrient profile, cauliflower is incredibly filling! I, personally, love a good cauliflower mash on a cold fall day, it’s a guilt-free comfort food!
What can I cook with Cauliflower?
- Cauliflower Crust Pizza
- Fried Cauliflower Rice
- Low-Carb “Mac” and Cheese
- Garlic Chive Mashed Cauliflower
Squashdf
Squash is definitely a visual indication that Fall has finally arrived! We see squash all over the farmers market, and even on doorsteps all over the neighbourhood; decorating for fall! But while squash is definitely a beautiful piece of decor, it’s an even better ingredient! There are many different types of squash, including spaghetti, acorn and butternut! All of these gourds bring forward a different taste and texture, but the same versatility. Squash is very rich in Alpha-Carotene and Beta-Carotene. This vegetable is said to strengthen the immune system, may help to prevent cancer and can even reduce symptoms of insomnia!
What can I cook with Squash?
Sweet Potato
Sweet Potatoes are an amazing substitute for your typical potato. While regular white potatoes are very healthful, they contain a high amount of carbohydrates and calories. If you are looking for a more nutrient-rich side, Sweet Potatoes are the way to go! These pretty orange vegetables are full of Vitamins C, B6 and B2. Sweet Potatoes are said to produce collagen, which helps you maintain your skins elasticity and do not cause blood sugar spikes.
What can I Cook with Squash?
For more great recipes, check out www.PowerFoods101.com!
Happy Cooking!
References
www.medicalnewstoday.com
www.organicfacts.net
www.mercola.com
www.whfoods.com
www.care2.com
