Spooky Season Healthier Recipe Round-Up
It's spooky season!
The unofficial beginning of the holiday season doesn't need to scare your health goals away. It can be easy and delicious to work toward your nutrition goals while still enjoying the fun foods the season has to offer.
Healthy Fall Foods Abound
We often think of the holidays as a time to "buckle down" and really restrict our food choices so we can be "good." But it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, autumn is a great time to lean into all of your favorite fall foods. And adding nutrient-dense seasonal foods into our holiday meal plans instead of just depriving ourselves makes it easier for our bodies to handle the treats of the season.
Pumpkin is high in fiber, iron, and vitamin A. Pumpkin pancakes, anyone? Bonus points if you cut them into the shape of Jack-o-lanterns.
Butternut squash is loaded with vitamin C, Magnesium, and vitamin B6. It tastes wonderful roasted (see below) or enjoyed as a soup.
Apples are abundant this time of year and rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Check out this Apple Pie Collagen Smoothie recipe. It's one of our favorites.
Fresh figs and pomegranates are coming into season too. Treat yourself to some of nature's candy.
A ripe pear and a slice of cheddar cheese is a well-balanced snack idea that celebrates the season in a very simple way.
Our post, What's in Season? Nutrient-Dense Foods for Fall is full of more ideas. Give it a read for more inspiration!
Roasted Butternut Squash & Brussel Sprouts
You can celebrate the fall harvest with all the yummy autumnal produce, including apples and pears, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and of course pumpkin and all the winter squash. There are so many nutrient-dense choices available that can quickly become family favorites. A simple roasted veggie pan with Brussels sprouts and butternut squash is simple to throw together and can put you in the mood for changing leaves and sweater weather.
Ingredients
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½ of a large butternut squash, cubed into 1" pieces
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1 pound of Brussels sprouts, quartered
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¼ cup of olive oil
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
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Toss vegetables and oil in a bowl, until the veggies are well coated.
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Place the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer.
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Season liberally with salt and pepper
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Bake for 25 minutes or until Brussel sprouts are browned and crispy.
More Harvest Offerings
Enjoy this Oktoberfest-inspired Braised Sausages with Apples & Onions from Rachel Ray.
Fall is the perfect time for a White Chicken Chili to warm you up when it gets chilly outside.
Butternut Squash Soup is like a comforting hug. This one is extra special with bacon and goat cheese.
Spaghetti Squash Pizza Boats are a fun take on a Friday night favorite.
And don't think we forgot about breakfast. This Breakfast Pumpkin Custard is the perfect way to start your day.
Halloween Candy Swaps
You might have noticed that stores have been stocking their shelves with Halloween candy since August! If you look forward to a fun-sized Snickers after trick-or-treating—go ahead, have that Snickers. But, if you are looking for some alternative candy options, a few brands use simpler ingredients and taste even better. UNREAL has some delicious options. The dark chocolate coconut bars are dreamy. Justin's and Cocomel's are also great go-to's for a sweet treat.
Consuming too much refined sugar can lead to imbalances in our blood sugar levels, leaving us feeling depleted and hangry. Practice mindfulness when you choose to eat a treat—really enjoy it. Then try to keep the rest of your meals and snacks well-balanced with carbohydrates, fat, and protein.
More Halloween Fun
If you are ready to embrace Halloween, a bit of creative chopping or plating can elevate the mundane to the morbid like these Caprese Salad Eyeballs. We also have some great ideas for healthier versions of your favorite Halloween treats.
Deviled eggs are always a party favorite. These Jack-O-Lantern Eggs are perfect for any Halloween gathering.
These Roasted Root Veggies are a fun spooky side dish. They might even get your kids to try them.
Apple Nachos are a hit for kids and adults alike. Who doesn't like nachos?
Halloween wouldn't be complete with a Candy Bar. This make-at-home version will satisfy even the sweetest tooth.
Homemade Gummy Eyeballs are sure to spook and delight your family.
Bloody Cups (chocolate cups filled with raspberry) only have three ingredients, and a fun take on a classic Halloween treat.
Whether you love sweater weather and pumpkin spice lattes or enjoy scary movies and costume parties, eating well can keep you feeling great as we celebrate all that fall offers.
About the Author
Karen became a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner after her own medical crisis and autoimmune diagnosis led her on a journey of discovering how vital proper nutrition is to feeling happy and healthy. She became passionate about helping others regain their energy and sense of well-being through food and lifestyle choices. Karen lives in Southern California with her family and can be found outdoors most of the time. She loves helping clients find the joy of creating delicious foods that nourish their mind, body and spirit. Read more about Karen.
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