These seasonal foods are perfect for fall and contain plenty of health benefits.
Fall is a season full of home-cooked meals, fuzzy sweaters, and cold weather. Many people can enjoy this fall by spending quality time with family and cooking all kinds of meals using these comfort foods. What are the healthiest, tastiest produce that is in season this fall? Check out my top 10 favorites and read all about the health benefits of each.
1. Cranberries:
This anti-inflammatory food, also known as the "powerhouse of antioxidants," is a superfood that will have you wanting more than one serving this Thanksgiving. Not only is the color well suited for fall, but there are tons of health benefits behind the bright red shade. Cranberries are high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and anthocyanin, which help fight off diseases, improve circulation, and boost the immune system.
2. Butternut squash:
Butternut squash is another perfect vegetable to incorporate into dinner this fall. What's great about butternut squash is that it is pretty low in calories, has a high amount of fiber, and is very flavorful. Butternut squash is also great for your skin since it contains a lot of vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects and nourishes your skin.
Take a look at this healthy butternut squash recipe:
3. Kale:
Kale is a weight-loss-friendly, leafy green that is easy to use in various recipes during holidays and fall months. It is filled with important vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and calcium, helping prevent heart disease. Kale grows wonderful during the months of fall and can be added in soups or salads and flavored as you like.
Try this hearty kale salad recipe:
4. Pumpkin:
Pumpkin is the perfect food to use for holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving, whether it's decorating or using in a dinner recipe. It is packed with many vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. Pumpkin is also rich in vitamin B and is filled with minerals like calcium and potassium in them. Maybe now you will feel less guilty about eating pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving.
5. Brussel Sprouts:
Another excellent food to eat this fall is Brussel sprouts! Brussel sprouts are very easy to cook and are very nutritious. They are a significant nutrition source and contain vitamins like vitamin K, B-6, and vitamin C. They have also helped prevent cancer by protecting cells from DNA damage. Brussel sprouts have a sweet, nutty flavor that can be used in recipes during the holidays this year.
6. Apples:
Apples are perfectly in season and can be used in many dishes this fall, particularly in desserts for Thanksgiving. They are very rich in fiber, vitamin C, and other minerals, which help protect your skin by enhancing collagen production and fighting cardiovascular diseases. Apples are also pretty high in fiber and keep you fuller longer, which is another common health benefit.
Check out this healthy and tasty apple pie recipe:
7. Leeks:
Get out of your comfort zone this fall and branch out to this healthy vegetable that's part of the onion and garlic family. Leeks are an anti-inflammatory food with many health benefits that protect against diseases like obesity and diabetes. This bulb-like vegetable offer vitamin A, C, and B-6, which is vital in protecting the organs. It is a great food to use when it's chilly outside and if you're in the mood for a nice cup of soup.
Cooking Tip:
Make sure to clean the leeks well before cooking because dirt can stick on the inside!
8. Pecans:
Pecans are a great source of zinc, an immune-boosting mineral that can help reduce the risk of diseases. They also have the lowest amount of carbs and are versatile in cooking things like bread, pies, sauces, salads, and more. They also contain healthy fats, fiber, calcium, magnesium, have anti-inflammatory benefits, and are good for your cholesterol, so make sure to put pecans on your grocery list!
9. Pears:
Pears are another food to look out for the next time you're shopping for groceries. This fall fruit is another excellent source of vitamins and nutrients. Not only are they sweet, but they are packed with vitamin C and fiber, which helps slow down digestion and keep your hunger in check. Other than its weight loss benefits, pears help decrease the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
10. Carrots:
Carrots are incredibly nutritious and can be used in a variety of ways. Not only are they perfect for a quick snack, side dish, and dessert, they are rich in magnesium, vitamin A, potassium, fiber, and other vitamins and minerals, which benefits the immune system and ocular health. Carrots are delicious when boiled, sautéed, and roasted for elevating any recipe.
Going vegan? Take a look at this vegan carrot dessert
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