A guest post from Produce for Better Health Foundation.
November is here and winter celebrations are on their way. No matter what the holiday, the dining room table always seems to be the center of festivities. While everyone enjoys their traditional family recipes, it can be fun to incorporate new dishes to the meal and the options for delicious, healthy dishes are endless.
Some of the season’s best, like parsnips (pictured), turnips, and winter squash, are prefect additions to stews, soups and roasts. Other in-season items, like sweet potatoes, cranberries and pumpkin, are traditionally associated with celebratory meals.
Even if your families’ favorite fruits & veggies aren’t in season you can still enjoy them for the holiday because All Forms Count! Canned, frozen and dried fruits and vegetables can be less expensive than their fresh counterparts and are just as nutritious because they are processed immediately after harvest.
Fruits and vegetables may help reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and some cancers. They are naturally low in calories and they provide fiber that helps keep your digestive system working well. Fruits and veggies are rich in vitamins and minerals that your body needs to feel healthy and energized. Everyone can benefit from eating more fruits and vegetables, so pledge to fill at least half of your plate with them!
Make the season come alive with the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables. Before the meal, offer a vegetable tray that includes blanched asparagus or green beans, red and green bell pepper strips and your favorite colorful raw veggies. Serve a couple different flavors of low-fat dressing, hummus, or guacamole as dips. A variety of dips to choose from keeps everyone happy. Keep seasonal fruit on hand for delicious and nutritious snacks.
There are many wonderful recipes calling for autumn produce that can make an appearance on the holiday table. Sweet Potato and Pear Soup makes a delicious meal starter, and Honey-Roasted Parsnips are a great seasonal side dish. If you’re in search of help for hosting that big meal, look at our autumn entertaining hints, and check out our other recipes online at www.FruitsAndVeggiesMoreMatters.org too!
Nicole Geurin, MPH, RD 