All the watermelon has been cut up and eaten, the sweet corn has all been picked, the sugar snap peas were eaten while standing in the garden, the plums are now plum jelly, the tomatoes went into salads, and most of the green beans went into a casserole. The summer produce is almost gone and fall is in the air. That means it is time for fall produce such as cauliflower, pumpkins, apples, pears, acorn squash, cranberries, and pomegranates.
Most of these fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamin C and fiber. Vitamin C has a role in synthesizing collagen and is important for wound healing and function of the immune system. A diet high in fiber has many health benefits including lowering blood cholesterol levels and helping maintain blood sugar levels. Pears, pumpkins, acorn squash, and cauliflower all contain potassium which is associated with lower blood pressure. Pumpkins and pears also contain folate which is important for women of childbearing age. For strong bones snack on pomegranates, cranberries, and cauliflower to get some vitamin K which plays a role in bone health and the maintenance of bone density.
Try incorporating this fall produce into your meals by experimenting with some new recipes like roasted cauliflower or a pear-cranberry crisp. Enjoy.
I’m usually not crazy about cauliflower but am interested in roasting it – good advice for all!
Roasted cauliflower is great!!!! Mix with carrots (from garden if possible), spray with olive oil spray, salt, pepper and your seasoning of choice (rosemary or garlic salt are my standbys), roast in oven for about 30-40 min. Awesome with roast chicken!
Good information on lowering cholesterol levels…..I will get my acorn squash baked this week. Cute dog!!!!!
Very good information – can’t wait to try the pear-cranberry crisp!