The Top 15 Fall Foods

Fall foods

Looking for fresh and healthy food this fall? Look no further. Here’s our list of the top 15 in-season fruits and vegetables (in no particular order).

 

  1. Squash: This might be an obvious one, but squash is extremely healthy. There are many different types of squash, the most famous being pumpkins and butternut. Squash contains omega-3 fatty acids, is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B-6. It is also high in antioxidants and potassium.
  2. Dates: This fruit is often served with cheese, braised for stew, or chopped up in dessert. Eat them however you want, but be sure that you do eat them. Dates are a great source of fiber, potassium, and are also low in fat.
  3. Ginger root: This aromatic, unmistakable spice is considered a remedy for everything from the common cold, to stomach nausea, and recent studies have shown that it may prevent cancer.  Ginger root is extremely high in antioxidants and good for your overall health.
  4. Grapes: Grapes are in season from late summer until about November and they make for a sweet, healthy snack. They are very low in fat and are a good source of vitamins C and K.
  5. Kale: Recently kale has become extremely popular because it is packed with nutrients and vitamins. And luckily, it’s in season right now! Kale is a great source for beta-carotene, potassium, and fiber.  It also has very high amounts on vitamins A, C, and K.
  6. Kiwi: This may seem like a summer fruit, but kiwi is actually in season from September until March! It adds a tropical, sweet flavor to the rest of the fall foods. Kiwi, like most fruit is a great for being sweet, but only containing natural sugars. It is also a good source for vitamin C, potassium, and copper.
  7. Pomegranates: Famous for the high amounts of antioxidants, pomegranates are a great fall food. They can add color and a slightly tangy flavor to salads or you can eat them on their own (just don’t be wearing a white shirt). Pomegranates also have vitamin C and folate.
  8. Sweet Potatoes: This one may seem obvious too, but sweet potatoes are a great, healthy option (and not just as a side dish).  Sweet Potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, and iron.
  9. Nuts: Many different types of nuts hit their peak season in the fall. Almonds, pecans, pistachios, and chestnuts all peak in the fall and they have many health benefits. Nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and magnesium.
  10. Turnips: Recently popular because of Michelle Obama, turnips are great because you can eat the root and the leaves. Both have their own flavor and they have different nutrients. The roots are a good source of vitamin C, while the leaves contain vitamin A, K and folate.
  11. Pears: To add some sweetness to your fall diet, pears are a great source for flavor and nutrition. They can go with cheese, be poached, baked, or eaten on their own. Pears, like other fruits, are a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
  12. Cabbage: It’s maybe not the most desirable of vegetables, but cabbage is versatile and have many health benefits. It is high in vitamins K, c, and B-6. It can also help lower cholesterol.
  13. Broccoli: Also coming from cabbage family is broccoli. This more popular vegetable is known to be extremely healthy. Broccoli is a good source for beta-carotene, folate, potassium, as well as vitamin C.
  14. Cauliflower: Broccoli’s not as popular cousin, cauliflower is another healthy option for fall. Many people like to eat as a healthy alternative to mashed potatoes. Cauliflower contains compounds that may help prevent cancer and lower cholesterol. They also contain vitamin C.
  15. Brussels Sprouts: Love them, or hate them brussels sprouts are very healthy. They can be made up in a variety of ways and make a great, healthy side dish. They are high in vitamins C and A, as well as the mineral manganese.  Brussels sprouts may also help aid digestion and prevent spikes in blood sugar.

 

These are just some the fruits and vegetables that fall has to offer. What’s your favorite fall food?

 

Sources: 

http://www.cuesa.org/eat-seasonally

http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1009103-12-fall-winter-superfoods/#slide=14

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20307323_5,00.html

http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-fresh-ginger-root-stomach-8667.html

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265990.php

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fruits-and-fruit-juices/1920/2

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=19