As October rolls in, many people jump straight to Halloween, with its colorful costumes and pounds of candy. But hidden behind the month’s spooky fun is an abundance of seasonal produce that often goes unnoticed. From crisp apples to buttery squash, the flavors of autumn inspire a range of recipes. These cozy dishes can help you make the most of what’s fresh and local.
Baked Sweet Potato and Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted sweet potato and brussels sprout dish, drizzled with a luscious maple-balsamic glaze and topped with crunchy pecans and walnuts, is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes and halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Next, spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and tender. While the vegetables are baking, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a small bowl. Then, drizzle the balsamic glaze over them and toss to coat. This vibrant and flavorful dish treats you to a gourmet, autumn-inspired delight!
A cozy soup that’s full of autumn flavors, this recipe is perfect for making the most of seasonal squash. Included in this dish is butternut squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, olive oil, nutmeg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot, then add the roasted squash and vegetable broth. Blend the mixture until smooth, season with nutmeg and thyme, and serve hot.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of fall with this delightful Pumpkin and Kale Salad, a perfect way to highlight seasonal ingredients. Begin by roasting cubes of sweet pumpkin until they’re tender and caramelized. Now, massage fresh kale with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to enhance its texture and flavor. Combine the kale with the roasted pumpkin, and add in elements like toasted nuts for a crunchy taste. This salad bursts with colors and tastes, making it a standout dish for any autumn gathering or a comforting weekday meal.
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Baked Apple and Pear Crisp, a delightful dessert that combines tender slices of apples and pears with a crunchy oat topping. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing the crisp to bake to golden perfection. Toss the fruit with cinnamon and lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor before layering it into a baking dish. For the topping, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly, then sprinkle it generously over the fruit. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting finish.
These recipes embrace the most cherished flavors of fall with the help of underrated seasonal produce. Embrace the joy of cooking this October, and let these seasonal delights bring comfort, tasty celebrations to your family’s fall meals!
