Plated: Food that Tastes Better in the Fall

Cooler fall temperatures are a relief after the summer heat, and watching leaves change from green to gold, red, and orange is romantic. Fall also brings family fun outdoor activities and cozy wardrobes. And it is the season of comfort foods. The autumn season offers many nutritious and delicious options, from hearty root vegetables to succulent fruits. With a unique selection of fruits and vegetables at your local farmers’ market or grocery store, some foods taste better in the fall.

Brussels sprouts taste better after a slight frost and are a fall crop in warmer climates because they prefer cool weather. They resemble mini cabbages and are typically cut, cleaned, and cooked to make a nutritious side dish or main course. To steam Brussels sprouts, boil about an inch of water in a small pan on the stove and cook it covered for 5 to 10 minutes. Or roast with olive oil on a sheet pan for 25 to 30 minutes at 400 degrees. Add salt and pepper or red pepper flakes or garlic powder to taste.

Sweet potatoes are versatile and nutritious vegetables in the fall season. Vardaman, Mississippi, is known as the “Sweet Potato Capital of the World” and hosts the National Sweet Potato Festival every November. Instead of roasting sweet potatoes whole, try slicing them half lengthwise. They’ll cook much quicker and get some caramelization while staying moist. Roast halved potatoes at 425 degrees for about 30 minutes. Add peeled and diced sweet potatoes to fall soups, stews, or chilis.

Cranberries are at their peak in the fall, have a sweet-tart flavor, and are not just for Thanksgiving. Eat them whole like blueberries, or chop them to add them to salads, oatmeal, or smoothies. Bake with cranberries; they pair well with orange flavors and are delicious in breads with warm spices and orange glaze. Add cranberries to beverages with vodka, bourbon, mint, lime, sugar, and ginger ale in cocktails.

Pears peak in the fall and ripen at room temperature after being picked. You can tell if a pear is ripe if the neck near the stem gives a little when pressure is applied. A pear’s skin is edible and a great source of fiber. To keep sliced pears from browning, briefly soak them in 1 quart of water and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice.

Fall foods are often comforting, earthy, savory, and best when eaten in season.

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