What Seasonal Foods Should You Be Eating Right Now?
From the colorful changing leaves to the crisp air and warm and cozy sweaters, many things make fall a great time of year—especially the foods ripe and bursting with seasonal flavors. Whether it's a neighborhood event or an annual Friendsgiving gathering with your pals, there are countless fruits and veggies to take advantage of right now. Here are six fall produce items that are at the top of our grocery list for November and beyond.
1. Pumpkins
Whether you're eating them, carving them, or using them as holiday décor, pumpkins are our current autumn obsession. And, believe it or not, when it comes to cooking with the most popular and versatile gourd in the world, the possibilities go beyond the typical pumpkin pie, pumpkin spice latte, or loaf of pumpkin bread. For example, we love this delicious pumpkin cheese-stuffed pasta Bolognese bake from Half Baked Harvest. It's creamy, comforting, and sure to be a hit for any crowd.
Did you know there are more than 50 different types of pumpkins? Check out our top pumpkin picks and more fun facts in our ultimate pumpkin guide.
2. Apples
Another vital staple in seasonal autumn foods with many uses is apples. High in fiber and low in calories, apples should have a permanent spot in your fridge (they last six to ten times longer there!) or in your pantry this time of year. Next time you're craving this yummy fall fruit, skip the grocery store and head to the nearest apple orchard in your area for a vast, high-quality selection—and a fun fall bucket list activity for the whole family. Apples in season right now include:
- Melrose
- Ida Red
- Mutsu
- Fuji
- Granny Smith
- Black Twig
- Turley Winesap
- Stayman Winesap
Use the fruit to brew a cider, make a cinnamon apple sauce, eat raw as a snack, or whip up this irresistible granny smith apple pie.
Need more fall apple inspiration? Check out these unexpected ways to use apples before they go bad!
3. Pears
While they may not get as much love as their cousin (the apple), pears are also in season and full of fall flavors. Many types of pears are notoriously hard to shop for—but don't let that scare you away. To ensure the ripeness of all varieties, only buy those that yield to the pressure when you press on the neck, and then store them at room temperature. A great source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and iron, you can enjoy pears for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert; however, these pork chops with pear chutney are always a showstopper.
4. Cauliflower
Cauliflower has taken the culinary world by storm thanks to its mild taste and versatility. A healthy, fat-free, and cholesterol-free swap for our favorite starches, this cruciferous veggie can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled and can replace anything from rice and pizza crust to mashed potatoes and chicken wings. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, including purple, orange, and white. (P.S. - purple cauliflower is the healthiest option!) We love to cozy up with this delectable roasted cauliflower soup recipe as the temperatures drop.
5. Winter Squash
Move over summer squash and zucchini—winter squash, like spaghetti squash, butternut squash, and acorn squash, is here—and we’re absolutely thrilled about it. Getting its name from its tough skin that can withstand harsh temps and blooming in late summer and early fall, these hardy and nutrient-dense foods can be used in many forms, eaten as a main or side, and enjoyed with a sweet or savory flavor. This roasted squash salad with crispy shallot & balsamic reduction recipe is one of our top picks. It’s the perfect nutty-but-sweet autumnal twist on an everyday dish!
6. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are not only delicious, but they’re also considered a superfood, packed with vitamins and minerals, like vitamin A, iron, calcium, and potassium. Believe it or not, sweet potatoes are more nutritious than broccoli or spinach! While sweet potatoes are available year-round, they’re in peak season in the fall—but you shouldn’t wait until Thanksgiving to enjoy them. These spicy honey-baked sweet potato fries are a guilt-free snack that’s super easy to make.
Quick Uses for Leftover Seasonal Foods!
From sweet potatoes and pears to apples and winter squash, these seasonal foods for November are sure to please any palate. If you've whipped up one of our remarkable fall recipes with these autumn produce pics and have some leftovers, have no fear! Stop questioning what to make, and check out these quick uses for leftover ingredients. Happy cooking!