9 Best Fall Fruits and Veggies

Best Fall Fruits and Veggies

Fall is a magical time of year when crisp air signals the arrival of cozy sweaters, warm beverages, and, of course, an incredible harvest of seasonal fruits and vegetables. The shift in weather brings us the best fall produce, packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for heartwarming meals. But beyond their taste, these fruits and veggies offer numerous health benefits, from lowering blood pressure to boosting immunity. Whether you’re browsing your local farmers market or stocking up on fresh cranberries for the holidays, eating seasonally during the fall can transform your kitchen and your health.

Ready to explore the most delicious and nutritious fall fruits and vegetables? Let’s dive into the top nine you should savor this autumn season.

Best Fall Fruits and Veggies

1. Kale

fall seasonal vegetables

Kale is a powerhouse fall vegetable. Known for its bright green leaves, it’s rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making it an excellent choice for boosting immunity. Kale is a versatile veggie; whether it’s tossed into salads, sautéed with olive oil, or blended into smoothies, its slightly bitter taste complements sweet and savory dishes. To keep it fresh, wrap it in a damp cloth and store it in the crisper drawer of your fridge. It should stay crisp for up to a week.

Recipe Idea: For a nutrient-packed lunch, try making a hearty kale and sweet potato salad with a drizzle of lemon tahini dressing.

2. Butternut Squash

fall/winter fruits

A staple of fall cooking, butternut squash is a sweet, nutty winter squash with a high beta carotene content. Your body converts this to vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. Butternut squash is perfect for baked goods, soups, or roasted as a side dish.

Whole butternut squash can be stored in a dark place at room temperature for up to a month. Once cut, refrigerate the squash in a plastic bag.

Recipe Idea: Butternut squash soup with roasted garlic and a touch of cream is the ultimate comfort food for cool evenings.

3. Grapes

fall fruit

Grapes are one of the best fall fruits to snack on, but they also shine in salads and desserts. Packed with antioxidants, they help fight off free radicals and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Add fresh grapes to a charcuterie board, or toss them into a salad for a burst of sweetness.

Keep grapes in the fridge and wash them just before eating to prevent spoilage.

Recipe Idea: Make a delicious grape and feta salad with toasted walnuts for a refreshing fall side dish.

4. Apples

fruits in fall

Is it even fall without apples? This quintessential fall fruit comes in many different varieties, all offering a good source of fiber and flavonoids, which may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Apples are incredibly versatile; they can be eaten raw, cooked into pies, or even added to savory dishes.

Keep apples in a cool storage area or in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. If stored properly, they can last for weeks.

Homemade Hot Apple Cider Recipe Ingredients

Recipe Idea: An easy apple crisp made with oats and cinnamon is a must-try. It’s perfect for a cozy fall dessert.

5. Pumpkin

fruits in fall season

Pumpkin is not just for carving—it’s a fall superstar! Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, pumpkin supports eye health and boosts immunity. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, from pumpkin soup to pies. The seeds are also edible and packed with nutrients.

Store whole pumpkins in a cool, dry area. Once cut, wrap the pieces tightly and refrigerate them.

Recipe Idea: Whip up a batch of fluffy pumpkin pancakes for a nice start to your autumn mornings.

6. Persimmons

fall fruits and vegetables

Sweet and slightly tangy, persimmons are a less common but delightful addition to fall’s fruit lineup. They’re a great source of fiber and their tart taste pairs beautifully with savory foods like cheese or pasta dishes.

Keep persimmons at room temperature until ripe, then move them to the fridge to extend their shelf life.

Recipe Idea: Slice persimmons over a salad with goat cheese, pecans, and a drizzle of balsamic for an elegant fall dish.

7. Brussels Sprouts

fall fruit and vegetables

Often underrated, Brussels sprouts deserve a spot on every fall table. These small veggies are packed with nutritional benefits, including vitamins K and C, and are great for heart health. Brussels sprouts are at their best when roasted to crispy perfection with olive oil and garlic.

Brussels sprouts can be stored in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to a week.

Brussels Sprouts Benefits and Tasty Recipes

Recipe Idea: Roast Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze for a side dish that’ll convert even the most reluctant sprout eaters.

8. Spaghetti Squash

fall fruits and vegetables list

If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to pasta, spaghetti squash is your fall veggie hero. Once cooked, its flesh transforms into spaghetti-like strands that pair perfectly with marinara sauce, pesto, or even pasta dishes.

Like other winter squashes, spaghetti squash can be stored in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Its tough outer skin helps to protect the flesh inside, allowing it to last for several weeks, sometimes even months, when stored properly.

For optimal storage, keep it in a cool, dark place, such as a basement, pantry, or cellar, where the temperature stays consistently between 50-55°F (10-13°C). This environment helps prevent premature ripening and protects the squash from rot, which can be caused by exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures.

Recipe Idea: Serve spaghetti squash with a simple olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan sauce for a quick and healthy dinner.

9. Cranberries

fall fruit in season

The tart flavor of fresh cranberries is a highlight of the fall harvest season. High in antioxidants and vitamin C, they help boost immunity and may lower the risk of heart disease. They’re typically cooked into sauces or baked into muffins and pies.

Fresh cranberries can be frozen or stored in the fridge for a few weeks. Before using, remove any bad spots. If you plan to use fresh cranberries within a few weeks, refrigerating them is another good option. Store them in their original packaging or transfer them to a plastic bag or airtight container to retain moisture.

They can stay fresh in the fridge for about three to four weeks. Before using them, it’s important to sort through the batch and remove any that have bad spots, which can include shriveled berries or those showing signs of softening.

Recipe Idea: A tangy homemade cranberry sauce is a must-have for Thanksgiving, but don’t stop there—cranberry muffins are a great way to enjoy these fall fruits all season long.

Conclusion

There you have it—the best fall fruits and veggies to enjoy this harvest season. Whether you’re incorporating these into salads, soups, or yummy treats, eating seasonally can enhance the flavor and nutritional content of your meals. From hearty butternut squash soups to crisp apple desserts, fall’s bounty offers something for every palate and dish.

So head to your local farmers market, stock up on these seasonal delights, and enjoy the cozy, flavorful goodness of fall.

Johan Perez
Johan Perez is an experienced agriculturalist with over twenty years in the field. He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences and has contributed extensively to research on sustainable farming practices. Johan has also written for numerous agricultural periodicals, offering expert advice on farming technologies and methods. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor adventures, which often inform his professional insights into ecological agriculture.

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