Healthy Fall Meals

Squash is one healthy, autumnal food item.

The fall season is full of tasty and healthy foods that you can incorporate into your every day meal planning, like autumn squash, apples and nuts. These foods are nutritious to boot, offering a variety of healthy options that can give you the taste of fall without adding to your waistline.

Squash

Squash can be found in abundance in the fall, both at local grocery stores and community farmer's markets. There are many types of autumn squash, like butternut squash, acorn squash and spaghetti squash. Squash are low in fat and calories because of their high water content, and are a good, healthy substitute for starchier vegetables like potatoes. You can add autumn squash to most recipes, from pasta dishes to a side item of roasted root vegetables.

Roasts

Roasted meats are common in kitchens once the temperature drops, as they warm up the stomach and give a nice aroma to the entire house. Some roasted meats, like pork butts or roasted beef, can be fatty and high in calorie content. For a healthier alternative, consider roasting a leaner meat like a whole chicken or lean pork loin in the fall. Instead of basting the food in butter, use olive oil or peanut oil for even more health benefits.

Nuts

Nuts are full of proteins and nutrients, and several types of nuts are also associated with autumn flavors. Acorns, walnuts and pecans are low in calorie and high in nutrients, and can be added to soups and roasted vegetables, or you can dredge chicken cutlets through crushed nuts for a tasty crust. You can also drizzle slices of fruit with the nuts for a low calorie dessert.

Apples

Apples are harvested in the fall and can be found by the bushel at grocers and produce stands. Apples can be added to both sweet and savory recipes for a touch of autumn flavor. Slice apples and roast the with chicken or chicken sausages in a pan on the stove. Stuff whole apples inside a roasting turkey or chop up some apples for a stuffing. A baked apple drizzled with cinnamon makes a healthy, low-fat dessert as well.

References

• Country Living: Flavorful Autumn Recipes