Healthy Chicks

Fall is hands down my favorite season. There’s something about it that’s purely magical…you can even smell it in the air. It’s fresh, crisp and the perfect amount of cozy (think: leggings, boots and an over-sized sweater).

Along with the weather shifts also comes a bounty of delicious in-season fruits and veggies. Here are a few of my favorites, along with must-try recipes to go along with them!

Cauliflower: There’s lots you can do with cauliflower. You can mash it (for a delicious mashed potato substitute), but my absolute favorite way is roasting. It cooks up really nice & crispy, and goes well with a number of herbs and spices. Try this Balsamic & Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe, a house-hold favorite!

Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are probably my favorite fall veggie, and my man will 100% agree. Lately, I’ve been going to town with sweetgreen’s Roasted Turkey + Brussels Sprouts Salad on their fall menu (hot tip: I like to add goat cheese) but it also frequently makes an appearance at home. When it comes to brussels sprouts, keeping it simple is best. These oven-roasted brussels from Whole Foods totally do the trick!

Pears: Once fall hits, apples get all the attention but what about it’s friendly sister, the pear? I’m a big fan of this under-rated fruit — it’s delicious as is, or smeared with some cinnamon & natural peanut or almond butter for an afternoon snack. This Brie, Pear & Mustard Grilled Cheese screams Sunday afternoon cuddled up on the couch in your pj’s with Netflix.

Spaghetti Squash: What’s not to love about this awkward-shaped veggie that resembles carb-a-licious pasta at first glance when cooked? As someone who eats mostly gluten free, this veggie is a life-saver when it comes to savory fall meals. Try Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs for a healthier take on spaghetti night! Trust me, no one will know you didn’t actually use boxed pasta 😉

Pumpkin: Pumpkins aren’t just for carving and dressing up your two-year-old for Halloween. They can also be a great addition to your fall cooking! For one, don’t waste their seeds — these babies make for a fabulous, nutrition-packed snack lightly roasted with salt or cinnamon & sugar. Try this Pumpkin Pie Smoothie recipe to healthy up your breakfast! (Or wait, is it dessert?)

Figs: Fig Newton’s are so out, but their rockstar ingredient the fig isn’t! These 5-ingredient No-Bake Fig Newton Balls give this childhood favorite a comeback both kids and adults will love.

What do you love most about the fall? What are your go-to recipes?