Delicious and Easy Ways to Eat Healthier This Autumn

This time of year is perfect for embracing healthier eating habits while enjoying the rich tastes of autumn. From hearty squashes to vibrant root vegetables, autumn offers a variety of ingredients that can enhance your meals and nourish your body. Today, we will explore some delicious and easy ways to eat healthier this autumn, focusing on seasonal foods, simple recipes, and practical tips to make the most of this beautiful season.

Embrace Seasonal Produce

One of the best ways to eat healthier in the autumn is to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals. Autumn is a time for harvesting a variety of fruits and vegetables that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Some of the most popular autumn produce includes:

• Pumpkins: Rich in vitamins A and C, pumpkins are versatile and can be used in soups, pies, and even smoothies.

  
  

• Sweet Potatoes: These are high in fiber and antioxidants, making them a great addition to any meal. They can be roasted, mashed, or even made into fries.

  
  

• Brussels Sprouts: These little cabbages are high in vitamins K and C and can be roasted or sautéed for a delicious side dish.

  
  

• Apples: A quintessential autumn fruit, apples are great for snacking, baking, or adding to salads for a sweet crunch.

  
  

By focusing on these seasonal ingredients, you can create meals that are not only healthier but also bursting with flavor.

Simple and Healthy Recipes

Incorporating seasonal produce into your diet doesn't have to be complicated. Here are a few simple and healthy recipes that we enjoy for you to try this autumn:

Roasted Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil

  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

3. In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.

4. Add the roasted pumpkin and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.

5. Blend until smooth and serve warm.

   
   

This soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect autumn dish.

Sweet Potato and Brussel Sprouts Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 sweet potatoes, cubed

• 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: feta cheese or nuts for topping

  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Toss the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden.

4. Serve warm, topped with feta cheese or nuts if desired.

   
   

This salad is a great way to enjoy the flavors of autumn while keeping your meals healthy.

Snack Smart

Autumn is also a great time to rethink your snacking habits. Instead of reaching for processed snacks, consider healthier options that incorporate seasonal ingredients.

• Apple Slices with Nut Butter: A simple and satisfying snack that combines the sweetness of apples with the protein of nut butter.

  
  

• Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: After carving your pumpkin, don’t throw away the seeds! Roast them with a little olive oil and salt for a crunchy, nutritious snack.

  
  

• Vegetable Chips: Make your own chips by thinly slicing sweet potatoes or beets, tossing them with olive oil, and baking until crispy.

  
  

By choosing healthier snacks, you can keep your energy levels up throughout the day without compromising your health goals.

Stay Hydrated

As the weather cools down, it can be easy to forget about hydration. However, staying hydrated is essential for overall health, especially during the autumn months.

Consider incorporating herbal teas or infused water with seasonal fruits like apples and cinnamon. These options can be both refreshing and comforting, helping you stay hydrated while enjoying the flavors of the season.

Give it a go!

Eating healthier in the autumn doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By embracing seasonal produce, trying simple recipes, snacking smart and staying hydrated, you can enjoy the rich flavors of fall while nourishing your body.

As you explore the delicious ways to eat healthier this autumn, remember that the key is to enjoy the process and savor the seasonal ingredients that this beautiful time of year has to offer. Happy eating!

A warm bowl of roasted pumpkin soup garnished with fresh herbs - looks just like ours....

A vibrant autumn salad with roasted sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts