How To Use In-Season Produce For Holiday Meals

If you’re trying to add more fresh produce into your diet, the fall and winter seasons are the perfect time to do it. At Organic Restaurants, we know plenty of ways to add seasonal produce to your holiday meals, whether you’re looking for new ideas for side dishes, main courses, or even desserts. When you go to the organic market this fall or winter, here are some items you should think about picking up.

Perfect Produce for Fall

Some of our favorite fall produce is rich in taste, texture, and nutrients. There are classics like sweet potatoes, perfect on their own as a side dish or in a pie. Squash is so versatile and can be used in all kinds of roast vegetable dishes or even pasta entrees.

Tart and flavorful cranberry sauce is a must at most holiday gatherings, and any pumpkins that weren’t carved up for Halloween can find their way into pies and other delicious baked goods. Of course, fall is also apple picking season. Apple pies are a staple of holiday gatherings for good reason, but you can also make cider with them or just have them as a snack on their own. All of these produce items can enhance meals all autumn long.

What to Add in Winter

Much of the produce you liked in fall is still in season during the winter months, but we have a few more additions to suggest. Green leafy greens are a great addition to your diet during the winter months and offer plenty of nutrients. We love to add ingredients like kale, broccoli, and bok choy to our meals during these darker, colder months. Some of our favorite greens can make great additions to salads, soups, and even pasta dishes all season long.

Also, opt for some more colorful produce and offset the more dreary winter season. We like pomegranates, which are full of antioxidants and other nutrients. Carrots are packed with vitamins and make a great addition to many winter meals, and if you feel like sticking with orange vegetables sweet potatoes are still delicious in the winter time. Finally, if you’re roasting vegetables, try adding some parsnips and winter squash.

Try Different Types of Recipes

We’ve mentioned some specific types of produce, but if you’re looking for new ways to incorporate the seasonal produce you already love you can do that too. Why not try out some new recipes this fall and winter? You might be surprised at what you can do with some of your favorite fruits and vegetables.

Need to put some snacks out before a holiday meal is ready? Put out some chips, but pair them with a unique mango salsa that everyone will want to know the recipe for. Add new vegetables to your stir fry or roast vegetable dishes. Make a pie with produce you’ve never used before. There are many great ways to experiment with delicious fruits and vegetables this season.

For More Seasonal Food Ideas

If you want to learn more about how to make the most out of your organic food options each season, visit the Organic Restaurants website. We’re posting new tips and tricks all the time, helping people discover new produce and recipes that their families will love!