Harvest Your Health
‘Tis the season for ghouls, goblins, witches and…squash? To me, October doesn’t only just scream Halloween, but also reminds me that my favorite fall and harvest veggies are in season! Summer can be a hard act to follow with an abundance of perfect berries, tomatoes, corn, watermelon, and peaches, oh my! But there are so many autumn produce options available, too. Plus, I really think any meal tastes better when you use fresh, seasonal ingredients. This time of year, sweet potatoes, pumpkins and squash are at their prime, which means they are generally less expensive, more readily available in your grocery store, and higher quality as well. Yet sometimes, staring at that squash in the grocery store can be just as scary as that mask your child is begging you to buy for trick or treating. With its thick exterior and odd-looking shape, it can be easy to judge a squash harshly, but when cooked, well, they are very flavorful and tender. So this harvest season, why not try giving your fall meal routine a makeover?
Pumpkins aren’t just for carving anymore! Did you know that pumpkins are super low in calories and packed with tons of nutrients and vitamins, like potassium, magnesium, iron and beta-carotene (hmmm, doesn’t seem so scary after all). Picking pumpkins from the pumpkin patch (try saying that 10 times in a row) is one of my favorite fall pastimes. This coming Halloween, save the seeds from the pumpkins that you and your family carve and try roasting or toasting them. There are an infinite number of ways to flavor them using garlic powder, cayenne pepper, curry powder, or even ground cinnamon.
And, don’t forget to take advantage of some great fall fruit as well. Fresh cranberries, apples, pomegranates and pears are so versatile; you can use them in sweet or savory dishes, or just for snacking, of course. Toss your favorite apples or pears into a salad with some spinach for a light lunch option.
For a truly unique all-in-one healthy fall meal, try this recipe for Roasted and Stuffed Acorn Squash. I made a similar dish years ago during my catering days for one of the Seinfeld producers and it was a huge hit! So join me this autumn and trade in your Halloween candy for something a little heartier and decadently tasty (plus it will make the dentist happy, too).
Try Devin Alexander's Roasted and Stuffed Acorn Squash
