Fall is the Time for Superfoods!
By Donna Stark
The fall season brings so many changes … there’s that shift in our wardrobe to sweaters and scarves, the dip in temperature that calls for nights to be filled with hot chocolate, and the change in color not only on the trees but also at the local farmers market. You see, long gone are the bright colors of summer berries and corn on the cob. Now, those booths are filled with hues of deep reds, vibrant oranges, and robust greens. It’s as if the color palette from the changing leaves has poured itself all over the fall produce waiting to be purchased. And just as we do for every other season, we begin our search for delicious and nutritious alternatives to what we have been eating for the past several months. The “everything spice” craze is in full effect, and fall produce is a wonderful foundation for it all.
Fall Superfoods
Those summer berries and snap peas sure were delicious, but we have truly run out of recipes for them, haven’t we? But that’s OK because now it’s time for those fall superfoods to shine. So take a look at the stars of the season and get ready to prepare some amazing new dishes.
- Apples - Sure, you can dip them in caramel or cover them with sugar in a pie, but these sweet little bits of Heaven don’t need anything added to them to make them stand out. With so many varieties to choose from, it’s easy to get the Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber they provide.
- Squash - Are there any soup lovers out there? Because if there are, fall is the season for you! Nothing beats a bowl of warm, rich, creamy squash soup on a chilly autumn evening. And what makes it even better are all of the vitamins and omega-3s it provides while still being remarkably low in calories.
- Pumpkin - Fall just isn’t fall without the great pumpkin making an appearance, but don’t stop at decorating or carving them! Add them to your soups, stews, pies, and breads. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and fiber, you can’t go wrong serving this flavorful ingredient.
- Sweet potatoes - Don’t wait for Thanksgiving to chow down on these incredible veggies! Rich in Vitamin A, iron, and anti-inflammatory properties, and more nutritionally dense than white potatoes, they make a perfect substitution when roasted or mashed. They also make a fantastic soup!
- Pomegranates - The pomegranate has a long and rich history, as it is believed to be one of the very first cultivated fruits. It is known as an antioxidant powerhouse and is an excellent source of Vitamin C and folate. So pick up one and use it as a base for marinades and cocktails, or simply enjoy the seeds on their own.
Change is Good
The change in seasons is the perfect time to try new flavors and recipes, so throw your scarf and sweater on, head on out to your local farmers market, and pick up something new. Just don’t forget the hot chocolate on the way home!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Marcos, Calif.