The autumn harvest brings an array of root vegetables for comforting, hardy recipes that warm the soul. You’ll also see numerous fruits that you don’t typically see any other time of year. We don’t know about you, but fruit that is in season for a limited time is very exciting. Not only do these fruits exhibit impressive nutritional profiles, but they also taste great and are quite versatile. 

A 2020 study found that vegetarians who ate a diverse mix of fruits and vegetables had a lower risk of stroke than non-vegetarians who ate meat. An additional study from 2021 also gives people a reason to eat more fruits and vegetables. In this study, participants who ate the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables per day experienced a lower risk of death than those who ate fewer servings. Additionally health experts encourage people to eat seasonal produce items because they are at peak freshness and nutritional value. Choosing seasonal produce will also help reduce your carbon footprint, as fresh and local items don’t need to be transported long distances. We are talking about farm to table!

For more inspiration and information about seasonal produce items, visit your local farmer’s market and talk with the farmers. They are very knowledgeable about the flavor profiles and how to use/cook with the various produce items. To buy you some time until that happens, we’ve outlined the top seven fall fruits below. 

Kumquats

Don’t know what kumquats are? They are about the size of grapes, but they are citrus fruits and happen to be one of the best sources of fiber and vitamin C. Although they are technically winter fruits, they often show up in mid to late fall. In some areas, such as the Southern United States, they are available year round because of the warmer climates. Kumquats are the only citrus fruit that you can eat with the peel, which contains even more antioxidants than the fruit’s flesh. 

Quinces

A lesser known fall fruit, the quince is probably not in your regular fruit rotation. It resembles a lumpy, slightly larger pear, exhibiting a bright green skin. Quince is naturally rich in vitamin C, potassium, copper, fiber, and antioxidants, including rutin and caffeoylquinic acid. Most people boil quince to enjoy it, as that is the best way to enjoy the best flavor. Quarter the fruit, remove the core and seeds, and boil for about 40 minutes. You can add the flesh to juices, tarts, sweet treats, and purees. 

Pears

We are going from the quince, a fruit that somewhat resembles a pear, to the actual pear fruit. From Anjous and Bartletts to Forelle and Seckels varieties, pears are a hydrophilic food, meaning they fill you up quickly and love water. Pears contain the complex carbohydrate known as pectin, which acts as a detox agent, immune system stimulant, and gastrointestinal tract regulator. According to several studies, eating pears on a regular basis may help reduce bad cholesterol levels and regulate the body’s absorption of sugar. 

Cranberries

You cannot have an article that details the best fall fruits and leave cranberries off the list. Fresh cranberries are only available for a limited time, typically from mid to late fall. Harvested in places like the Northeast United States, cranberries are valuable sources of plant compounds like benzoic acid, anthocyanins, quercetin, vitamin C, and epicatechins. Cranberries go great in sauces, pies, scones, muffins, salads, smoothies, and desserts. A 2022 study found that participants who took a cranberry supplement (the equivalent of one cup of cranberries) daily for 12 weeks improved memory and lowered LDL (bad) cholesterol. 

Apples

Apples are the quintessential fall fruit, and one of the best fall outings is to go apple picking at an orchard. Available in many varieties, apples are excellent sources of fiber, vitamin C, and polyphenols, which are beneficial plant compounds that exist in plant-based foods. Polyphenols may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, according to several research studies. Flavonoids, which are also present in apples, may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and general cognitive decline. 

Grapes

Although grapes are available year round, they boast their best flavor during fall. Enjoy varieties like champagne, concords, holiday seedless, and many others. Grapes don’t seem to get a lot of attention when it comes to nutrition, but they are excellent sources of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants like resveratrol, an anti-inflammatory compound that keeps your skin looking young. Grapes also contain anthocyanin, another antioxidant that has ties to longevity. 

Passion Fruit

Passion fruits are available in the early- or mid-fall months, and they grow in climates that are always warm. The actual fruit is quite gelatinous, with black seeds that are also edible. The taste is a bit sour, but riper passion fruits tend to be on the sweeter and highly fragrant side. You can incorporate passion fruit into acai bowls, smoothies, and juices. They are naturally rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, beta-cryptoxanthin, carotenoids, and other polyphenols.

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A lot of people think about pumpkin seeds when it comes to roasting the seeds of squash. Roasted kabocha squash seeds are a great alternative to pumpkin seeds and make use of an under-appreciated fall ingredient: kabocha squash. Since you have to hollow out the squash and remove the stringy parts and seeds before you cook the squash, you should save them and make this recipe. To make them, start by scooping out the seeds from a fresh kabocha squash and removing any stringy flesh. Make sure to rinse the seeds thoroughly to clean off any remaining squash. Once clean, pat them dry with a towel because they will not crisp up nicely if you roast them while they are still damp.

Once dry, scatter the seeds, which you’ll season liberally, across a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You don’t have to use parchment paper, but it makes for an easier clean up process. Roast them in a preheated oven at around 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become crunchy. Be sure to toss the seeds halfway through the cooking process in order to ensure even roasting. Once they are nice and crispy, let them cool slightly before enjoying. You can also store them in an airtight container for about 5 days before tossing them out.

Kabocha squash seeds are a rich source of healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3s work to support brain and heart health. These seeds also contain a lot of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. Additionally, kabocha squash seeds are high in magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants like vitamin E, which can help enhance immune function, improve skin health, and reduce inflammation.

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Although these a wellness shot is tiny, it packs a mighty punch. You are probably used to seeing ginger turmeric wellness shots, especially in health food stores, such as Whole Foods. Those are amazing anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting little shots, but they can be a little spicy, especially for the uninitiated. While ginger and turmeric receive a lot of attention regarding immune health, elderberry deserves equal, if not more, attention.

There are elderberry gummies, elderberry syrup, and even elderberry kombucha. Why can’t there be elderberry wellness shots? Thing of this recipe as a concentrated version of all of those recipes. You can use fresh or dried elderberries for this recipes, but you have to cook them first because they contain cyanogenic glycosides. Although they are not poisonous, they can be toxic and cause digestive discomfort, especially in people with sensitive digestive systems. The safest way to consume elderberries is to make sure that they are cooked first.

Although these shots have a vibrant purple hue because of the elderberry, the taste does not come from elderberries. In fact, elderberry doesn’t really have much of a flavor, which is why elderberry syrups and such are flavored by other ingredients, such as lemon, cinnamon, and ginger. Lemon provides vitamin C, which helps control inflammation and increase nutrient absorption. Finally, these shots contain echinacea, which, like elderberries, may help reduce the length and severity of viral illness, especially when it comes to bacterial infections. So although these wellness shots won’t cure an illness, they may help enhance immunity and improve recovery time.

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After you eat this recipe, you will most likely call all of your friends and say, “You simply have to try this recipe.” Better yet, perhaps you will save it in your recipe bank and make it for Thanksgiving, or another potluck party during the holidays. Not only does it deliver impressive flavor, but it also provides lots of vitamins and minerals. The Brussels sprouts, which typically get a bad rap, come out to be just soft enough with a sticky-sweet exterior glaze. And it all comes together in just about 30 minutes!

Maple syrup is a common ingredient used in many fall-inspired recipes. It lends itself to those savory, aromatic spices in a variety of sweet and savory recipes. The slightly bitter flavor of Brussels sprouts needs the subtle sweetness that maple syrup provides. The fresh orange juice and orange zest also add a sweet citrusy flavor. If you didn’t look at what you were eating, you wouldn’t even know that you were eating Brussels sprouts. By the way, the fresh orange zest is a non-negotiable. Just do yourself a favor and use it!

One thing to note about Brussels sprouts is that you’ll want to give them a good rinse, scrubbing any dirt or grime off them. You may even want to peel one or two of the outer leaves to ensure cleanliness. Slice the Brussels in half to ensure even cooking, or quarter them if your sprouts are larger. The key to getting a classic, caramelized glaze on one side, though, is to place the sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet.

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Pumpkin is back, people, and the advertisements for this glorious fall and winter squash have only just begun. Seeing pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pies, or pumpkin breads gets some people excited. It indicates that summer is ending and fall is approaching. With the onset of fall comes major festivities, including Halloween, Thanksgiving, and then Christmas to start winter. 

The pumpkin recipes that most people see in coffee shops and grocery stores, however, are quite unhealthy. The pumpkin fad means that more people consume high-calorie foods, most of which contain processed ingredients. Is it even possible to make pumpkin-inspired seasonal recipes that are healthy? The answer, dear friends, is yes.

Are Pumpkins Healthy?

Belonging to the squash family, pumpkin exhibits a wide range of health benefits. In fact, pumpkin happens to be one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that gives orange foods their vibrant colors. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which encourages optimal eye health, immune function, and even protects against heart disease. One study found that a diet rich in beta-carotene foods helped suppress tumors in patients with prostate cancer. A separate 2014 cross-sectional study from Japan found that beta-carotene slowed the development of colon cancer.

Some studies found that pumpkin’s fiber, potassium, and vitamin C content supports a healthy cardiovascular system. A 2017 study, for example, indicated potassium’s importance in reducing blood pressure levels. One cup of cooked pumpkin provides 16% of the recommended daily intake of potassium.  

Pumpkins are also great sources of fiber, vitamin E, copper, riboflavin, folate, niacin, iron, and magnesium. To learn how to incorporate more of this fall favorite into your diet, explore the following healthy recipes. These aren’t your standard pumpkin recipes, but they sure make pumpkin the star of the show. You won’t be missing pumpkin flavor at all!

Pumpkin Apple Fruit Leather

Elevate your fall snack game with this vegan pumpkin apple fruit leather! Celebrate the season with flavor, low calories, and deliciousness.. 

Click here to make the recipe. 

Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats

These pumpkin pie overnight oats make for a great, filling vegan breakfast on slightly brisk fall mornings. Just grab the jar and eat it on the go!

Click here to make the recipe.

Slow Cooker Vegan Pumpkin Butter

A luxuriously spreadable pumpkin butter is 100% vegan and great for the fall season. You can put it on toast or freshly sliced apples!. 

Click here to make the recipe. 

Dehydrated Pumpkin Rosemary Crackers

Enjoy a nutrient-dense, crispy pumpkin rosemary cracker while cleansing. It contains flax seeds, a ton of seasonings, and pumpkin, of course!

Click here to make the recipe. 

Raw Vegan Pumpkin Pie Tarts

Get in the fall spirit by making these adorable and delectable pumpkin pie tarts. The greatest thing about these tasty tarts is that they are easy to make, but they also boast bold flavors. All you need is time for the filling to set and you have yourself a healthy take on a fall classic. 

Click here to make the recipe. 

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There is something so satisfying about replacing an item you buy in the store with an even better homemade version. French fries, a loaf of bread, and these root veggie chips are just some examples of things you can make better, and healthier, than the ones you find in stores. Not only does it feel good to make your own chips, but it also means that you get to enjoy more nutrients. Researchers note that root vegetables help to boost serotonin (the feel good hormone) levels. Top off that crunchy goodness with a satisfying and luxurious spiced tahini sauce and you are ready to snack.

The hardest thing about this recipe is making sure that the chips are evenly sliced. That is why we encourage you to use a mandolin slicer on the 1/16-inch setting. You just have to be careful when you start slicing, as the mandolin blade is very sharp. Some mandolins come with protective devices that shield your fingers. If you just have the simple one with that feature, just mind your fingertips when you get close to the end of the potatoes and beets.

Regarding the root vegetables, you can choose ones that you enjoy, if you do not like the yam, white sweet potato, and beets in this recipe. Other great options include Yukon Gold potatoes, rutabaga, turnips, radishes, parsnips, or celery root. As long as these root vegetables are sliced uniformly thin, they will cook evenly. Some root vegetables may have a higher water content then others, so feel free to pat them dry prior to baking them.

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Fall is one of the most gorgeous times of the year, especially if you live in an area where the leaves change color. The cooler temperatures and shorter days have us craving a comforting soup. Why not use some of fall’s best produce items? Many of these vegetables are root vegetables, which are often overlooked because people don’t know how to use them. This soup is not just about warming the soul; rather, it is about discovering the often overlooked flavors in ingredients like parsnip and rutabaga. Rutabaga and parsnip do not give this soup its signature orange color. This soup contains carrots and butternut squash, which provide beautiful sweetness to contrast the more assertive ingredients.

This soup is truly an appreciation of autumn’s quieter, deeper flavors. It is a reminder to step outside your comfort zone and utilize under-appreciated ingredients that offer rich flavors and comfort. Rutabaga belongs to the turnip family, but it has a sweeter flavor, so that classic bitter radish flavor will not surprise your taste buds. Parsnip is like a cross between a turnip and carrot, and if they ripened under a little cover of snow, they will be much sweeter. You can find that out if you purchase them from a local farmer’s market. In case the rutabaga and parsnip have a slightly bitter flavor, the butternut squash will help balance the soup with its natural sweetness.

Our hope is that this recipe helps you find joy in transforming humble vegetables into something that is both filling and satisfying. Perhaps you had a parent or grandparent that used to make magic with whatever was in the house. This soup may fill your home with the nostalgic aromas of the past and remind you of autumn with the family.

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Thinking about going vegan? With Dherbs, a plant-based lifestyle becomes beneficial, effective, and sustainable for your health, energy, and wellness. See why more people are choosing natural solutions to feel their best!

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Trying a vegan diet? Simple swaps make the transition easy, delicious, and sustainable. Start your Going Vegan Challenge today!

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A smoothie is one of the easiest things to make if you are trying to be a healthier person. Throw a bunch of ingredients into a blender, flip the switch, blend until smooth, and then enjoy. It takes all of five or so minutes for it to come together, especially if you are quick at prepping ingredients. Plus, you can load them with vegetables, fruits, nut butters, plant-based milks, and more in order to pack the smoothie with as many nutrients as possible. There is truly no better feeling than knowing you have a belly full of amzing nutritious ingredients!

This mango kale smoothie only contains four ingredients. Because it is packed with fiber, protein, omega-3s, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and complex carbs, it makes for a great breakfast. It is perfect whether you are raw vegan, Paleo, gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or literally any person with any diet. You cannot go wrong by drinking this smoothie! Just make sure that you remove the ribs from the kale before adding them to the blender. The ribs, or thick central stems, are very bitter and fibrous, so your smoothie will have an off-putting flavor if you include them. You also need to blend on high to ensure you don’t have any kale pieces floating around in your smoothie.

Now, if you are not a mango person, you can replace the mango with a banana. You can replace the kale with spinach if you do not enjoy kale. Consider adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp seeds for a boost of protein and healthy fats. Those are all optional choices, as the smoothie is delicious as is. Whatever you do, just enjoy being healthy!

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