Fall is in full swing, and with it comes cozy nights by the fire, colorful foliage, and harvest dinners. As the days get shorter and chillier, nothing is more comforting than a warm, hearty meal made with seasonal produce and ingredients. These easy fall recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and highlight the flavors of autumn.
Butternut squash is versatile and nutritious. For a quick side dish, cut a small squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast cut-side down on a baking sheet until tender, about 40 minutes. Flip over and mash right on the skin with butter, salt, and pepper. Or make butternut squash risotto: Sauté diced squash, then add to Arborio rice with broth, parmesan, and fresh herbs.
Apples are ideal for both sweet and savory dishes. For a simple dessert, slice apples and bake them with cinnamon, sugar, and a splash of water or cider until soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Or make an apple salad with mixed greens, candied walnuts, crumbled goat cheese, and a cider vinaigrette. Pork chops pair nicely with apples—season the chops, sear in a pan, then finish in the oven with sliced apples, broth, and thyme.
Pears are also wonderful in fall recipes. For an easy chutney, combine diced pears, vinegar, sugar, raisins, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Simmer until thickened, then serve with cheese, meats, or rice dishes. A simple pear crisp with an oat and nut topping is a comforting dessert, and pears pair beautifully in salads with mixed greens, blue cheese, and hazelnuts.
Root vegetables like beets, parsnips, rutabagas, and turnips are earthy and satisfying. Roast them with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender and caramelized. Mash or puree cooked root vegetables with butter, broth, and herbs for a creamy side dish. Add diced root vegetables to beef or vegetable stew for heartiness and flavor.
Fall produce offers endless inspiration for delicious and comforting weeknight meals. Take advantage of seasonal ingredients like squash, apples, pears, and root vegetables for easy recipes that highlight the flavors of the harvest.