Summer is fun – especially going to the beach and other water events – but fall is my favorite season. Wearing jeans, watching football, and the crisp fall weather all comes together to create a delightful time.
One of the stand out features of the fall is the availability of fall produce – the cooler days make it perfect to turn on your oven and slow roast the heavier squashes and comfort soups for which the season begs. Try some of these terrific, tasty fall dishes that won’t break the calorie bank but will satiate your taste buds and warm you from the inside out.
Puree butternut squash in small batches in your blender to make this Butternut Squash Soup recipe from Elana’s Pantry. Top each bowl with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to lend depth of flavor.
As the weather cools, pears come in to season and during the colder months, they are absolutely delicious. Try Cider Poached Pears with Yogurt and Toasted Almonds, especially if you are looking for a decadent treat that is surprisingly healthy.
Baked apples make a warm and satisfying dessert for a crisp fall night. Hollow out an apple and place the fruit into a baking dish. Stuff the center with a bit of brown sugar and raisins, and bake at 350for 45 minutes.
Stuffed Acorn Squash is a tasty, versatile side dish that can also be served as a main dish for vegetarians.
Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal is a hearty and sweet breakfast to start your day off right. Make a bowl of your favorite oats. Stir in 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree, a sprinkle of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon brown sugar. Crumble in one low fat graham cracker and you have a warm, tasty breakfast that is much better for you than you’d ever imagine.
Instead of the traditional popcorn balls, which can be high in fat and stick to the teeth, try sweet and tart Cherry Almond Clusters instead.
For a warm and hearty dinner that only improves the longer it bakes, try the White Bean Butternut Squash Ragout with Polenta Squares.
Pumpkin Walnut Snack Muffins or Easy Apple Bread make for tasty treats popped into a lunch bag, or enjoyed warm out of the oven after school.
Also Read:
Fall Produce is Amazing, Abundant and Delicious