Now that the Fall season is beginning to kick in, it is especially important to eat produce that is local and also in season. Eating in season is an excellent way to maintain your health and still keep on a budget. Here is my top list of fruits and veggies to eat during the next few months.
1. Apples
Apples are a great source antioxidants and dietary fiber. They are great for a light snack or to add to your morning oatmeal. If you are looking for something to do during the weekend, apple picking is a great activity to do during the fall season.
2. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a fantastic source of Potassium, Vitamin B-6, and Vitamin C. Cauliflower can be eaten year round, but are at its peak during the fall season. They are versatile enough to be eaten raw or cooked. I personally like to make cauliflower rice or add some to a savory curry.
3. Cranberries
Cranberries are a simply sweet fall food that can be added to salads or made for sauces and other fall baked goods. They have antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Grapes
Grapes peak in the late summer and early fall so pick some up at your local farmer's market while they are still in season. They are a sweet and easy snack that can be eaten before any meal.
5. Fennel
Fennel is a root vegetable that is great to use in salads, side dishes and can even be pureed for soups. Fennel is a great source of fiber and is a useful food to add into your diet if you are interested in losing weight.
6. Kale
Kale is the greatest super-food out there, because it is densely packed with nutrients and extremely affordable. Kale can be cooked or eaten raw. I personally like to add kale in my morning smoothies as a quick and easy way to get my greens for the day.
7. Pears
Pears are said to be the new apple. They are a great energy booster and can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
8. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are high in iron, have anti-aging properties, and are great to improve the quality of your skin. This is a great fall fruit to eat if you are interested in enhancing your natural beauty during the season.
9. Pumpkin
Pumpkins are great for prostate health and are extremely versatile. They can be eaten in soups, smoothies, and baked. My favorite way to eat pumpkin is with this vegan pumpkin bread recipe.
10. Squash
Squash is an abundant fall vegetable with many different types. Squash is a wonderful way to boost your immune system, improve your blood circulation, and are great for your bones and eyes. Most people eat them cooked, but I also like to enjoy them raw.
11. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are great way to get some extra carbs in your diet leaving your hunger satisfied. They are high in magnesium and aid in curving the common cold and flu. Eating sweet potatoes is terrific especially during flu season!
