In Season: Apples

Apples photo by Michael Verhoef via Flickr/Creative Commons

Stepping into a big box grocery store, it’s easy to think that all produce grows all year round—but that’s hardly the case. In this series, we’ll highlight one in-season produce pick a week.

Apples

Nutrition: Apples provide a solid dose of vitamin C, and about a fifth of daily fiber requirements.

Why that matters: Vitamin C keeps tissue formation and the immune system running smoothly, while fiber aids in digestion, bowel health, and weight management.

Where to find them: In addition to being a farmers’ market staple, Massachusetts has more than 80 pick-your-own farms. Different apples ripen at different points during the fall, so be sure to check picking dates if you’re loyal to one variety.

Five apple recipes:

1. Slow Cooker Homemade Applesauce
via Rachel Schultz

Don’t be daunted—making your own applesauce is as easy as combining apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a slow cooker. To make it extra healthy, leave out the brown sugar or use a natural sweetener, like honey, instead.

2. Broccoli Apple Salad
via The Recipe Critic

Carrots, broccoli, apple, cranberry, and red onion provide a good dose of produce, while pecans add healthy fat and protein. The dressing uses Greek yogurt, so it’s already better than many creamy toppings, but you could leave the mayo out or sub in avocado to make it even lighter.

3. Oatmeal Stuffed Baked Apples
via Mom Endeavors

This delicious breakfast recipe gives your old standby, oatmeal, a creative update. All you have to do is core the apples, fill them with the oatmeal mixture, and bake for 30 minutes.

4. Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apples, Carrots, and Rosemary
via Everyday Good Thinking

Once the weather gets colder, this recipe will have you embracing the fall spirit. And since it can be prepared in a slow cooker, it’s a perfect make-ahead meal for a weekday.

5. Roasted Brussel Sprout, Bacon, Sweet Potato, and Apple Hash
via Multiply Delicious

This produce-heavy hash is versatile. Top it with an egg and you’ve got a hearty breakfast, serve it with protein for a main dish, or have a smaller portion for a side dish.