Fall Produce
Fall is one of the most abundant seasons for delicious and diverse produce, offering up the bounty of the land for all to enjoy in innumerable autumn recipes. From your town’s biggest grocery store to its quaintest local farmers market, you’re sure to find all of the healthy, hearty ingredients you need to plan dozens of perfect family meals.
The vegetables and fruits associated with this season are well known for their brilliant colors, seen in every hue and shade imaginable. The greens, yellows, oranges, and whites of luscious autumn squash, for example, make for a casserole that’s as beautiful as it is savory. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, squash is also an excellent source of fiber. To get the maximum nutritional benefit from this particular family of vegetables, be sure to leave the skin on and cook it with the flesh, basting it in olive oil and sea salt for a delicately rustic flavor.
Some other popular vegetables of the season include cauliflower, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and Brussels sprouts, all with their own nutritional advantages as well. Steam or saute with a pinch of your favorite simple seasonings and enjoy the succulent aromas of the season as they waft through your kitchen. If fall fruits are more your speed, you’ll love the plentiful supply of sweet delights that await you this time of year. Apples, oranges, pomegranates, pears, cranberries, grapefruit, and red grapes are only a few of the most popular fruits on display this autumn.
If you’re planning on purchasing any of your produce in bulk for a big holiday meal, talk to the people at the farmers market about pricing for larger orders. Sometimes, bulk purchases come at a reduced cost, making it even easier to stock up on all of the best autumn has to offer without breaking the bank. If you really want to have fun exploring the bounties of fall with family and friends, plan to make a day of visiting various markets and stores. When you’ve found the best few sources of fresh produce in your area, you’ll know that your pantry and refrigerator will always be fully stocked with the goodness of the land. Experiment with different recipes and swap meal ideas with your neighbors, sharing the uniting experience that is autumn.
