The turning of the leaves signals the start of the fall season, and, along with foods and treats associated with it. From Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte and Apple Crisp Macchiato to apple cider doughnuts and pumpkin pie to caramel apples and apple cobbler, autumn is a season with a vast repertoire of food items. Fall-related desserts and Starbucks’ signature drinks are great as long as they are consumed in moderation. Still, there are many underrated products harvested in the fall that deserve the same amount of attention because of their taste and health benefits.
Although it is sometimes difficult to remember when specific fruits and vegetables are in season, especially due to their year-round availability as a result of advancements in air shipping and refrigeration, there is generally a notable difference in taste during their prime season. In a state like New York with four seasons, it is a great idea to take advantage of the produce available locally during autumn. With countless farms across the state, including those only 30 to 40 minutes away from Mamaroneck such as Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm in Yorktown and Muscoot Farm in Katonah, there is no reason you should not try out some fall produce this year.
Some delicious seasonal squashes include acorn squash, delicata squash, butternut squash, honeynut squash, and spaghetti squash. All of these squashes are versatile in that they can be served steamed or roasted, savory – with a simple olive oil, salt, and pepper – or sweet – with maple syrup or honey or brown sugar. Regardless of the approach you take to preparing your squash of choice, the freshness of an in-season squash will be the star of the dish. Squashes are full of vitamins including vitamin B6, which is important to healthy brain development according to the Mayo Clinic. Squash also contains plenty of antioxidants, which ease oxidative stress in your body that could otherwise lead to severe damage of the DNA, proteins, and fatty tissues according to Healthline.
Of course, fall is also the season to go to apple orchards and pumpkin patches. Picking apples and pumpkins is a fun, active pastime that will leave you with a bundle of healthy, tasty produce. Whether you purchase freshly picked apples from a local farmers’ market, grocery store, or directly from the tree, you will be sure to notice the distinct crispness that bursts from autumn’s apples.
The fall harvest has so much to offer, especially to New Yorkers who have easy access to farms and foliage. It is a fantastic season that provides a variety of unique foods, visuals, and experiences to those lucky enough to live in it. As you continue to enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn, be sure to check out and try locally grown produce to add a little flavor to your meals!