I know what we are all thinking: where did the summer even go? Although the long, hot days of summer seemed to fly by, there are so many exciting things that roll around come September as we prepare for fall. Certain harvests are at their peak right now and can make for some delicious food and beverage ideas. Get inspired by the recipes below to spice up the new month while select fruits and vegetables are in season.
What Foods Are In Season?
September brings a colorful and nutritious variety of foods to the table. Some fruits include things like melons, pears, apples, and grapes. Most people associate berries with the summer months but actually, September brings us raspberries and blackberries; two fruits very high in antioxidants and vitamins. The vegetables include a variety of options between peppers, zucchini, radishes, squash, and kale. With such an assortment of different foods, we have lots to choose from when preparing a home-cooked, healthy meal. Check out the recipes below that use the foods September has to offer, and get inspired for your next meal.
White Bean and Kale Salad
Photo courtesy of minimalistbaker.com
Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world. Its benefits seem endless, as it is loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, antioxidants, and more. It is good for your skin, your heart, your cholesterol levels, and benefits your overall health. My go-to kale preparation is sauteed in a little olive oil with chopped garlic, served hot and a little crispy. However, using kale as your leafy greens in a salad is just as easy and delicious.
This White Bean and Kale Salad from the Minimalist Baker is simple, healthy, and filling. With minimal ingredients, this salad is loaded with essential nutrients our bodies crave. Click the link to view this recipe and give it a try this month!
Sheet Pan Roasted Garlic & Herb Chicken and Veggies
We all know the feeling of getting home from a long day and hoping to make something easy for dinner without having to stop at the nearest drive-thru. Sheet pans are a fun and easy way to make your dinner in one swoop with a little preparation and seasoning. This recipe from Gimme Delicious combines four September vegetables: zucchini, broccoli, garlic and bell peppers. You roast all of the ingredients for about 20 minutes in the oven and your colorful dinner is ready to go. It’s convenient, and can be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken for another fall favorite vegetable of your choosing. Try it out for yourself and get a taste!
Ginger & Apple Crostata
Now, we move onto the sweets. Apples are a key indicator that fall time is upon us, but they bring endless opportunities for tasty food and drink ideas. Best of all, apples make for great dessert dishes, including this Apple-Ginger Crostata recipe from Food and Wine. Using fresh ingredients for this recipe, such as fresh apples, ginger, and lemon juice, will make the dish burst with flavor. With a little preparation, this decorative dessert will be done in only 30 minutes. Get the taste of fall by utilizing this apple-picking season’s full potential to wow your friends and family this month!Â
Photo courtesy of foodandwine.com
The fall is my favorite season of the year. Where I grew up, September signifies the transition into cooler weather, leaves changing colors, cozy times with friends and family, and endless possibilities with great food and drinks. Celebrate the season with the harvests this month, and create great memories through delicious meals that will all leave you wanting more.
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