Autumn brings an array of delightful seasonal fruits and vegetables. Some popular autumn fruits include apples, pears, and cranberries, while vegetables like pumpkin, butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts are in abundance. These flavorful foods are not only delicious, but also rich in nutrients. Enjoy the autumn harvest!
Eating fruit and vegetables when they are in season is a great idea for many reasons. Firstly, produce is cheapest when it is at its most abundant. If you are working to a tight budget, eating seasonally can dramatically reduce your grocery bill!
Secondly, fruit and vegetables contain the greatest number of nutrients when they are allowed to ripen naturally. For instance, avocados sold in winter have often been picked early then frozen or chilled to prevent them ripening too quickly. Nutrients are lost this way and you can taste it - when you eat them, they're not nearly as good.
Eating in season is important for obtaining optimal nutrition and supporting our immune system, especially during times of high stress. Root vegetables and vitamin C rich fruits are readily available during the colder months, providing essential nutrients to promote our health. As the days grow shorter, it is beneficial to adjust our eating habits to include lightly cooked produce, which gives our digestion a break and keeps us nourished. Adding steamed or sautéed vegetables to roasted salads can provide a boost of energy and nutrition.
Autumn brings a bounty of seasonal vegetables and fruits. In the vegetable department, popular choices include pumpkin, Brussels sprouts, kumara, cabbage, kale, onions, parsnip, celeriac, swede, beetroot, baby carrots, and Agria potatoes. For those craving a variety of fruits, autumn offers figs, apples, pears, feijoas, lemons, limes, grapefruit, and quince. These delicious and nutritious options provide a wide range of flavors, textures, and nutrients to enjoy during the fall season.