Though fall arrived back in September, the weather just recently got the memo here in the valley. And with this enviable weather, Phoenicians are getting outside more and also turning to the produce of the season. In-peak produce of the fall harvest includes all kinds of that are healthy and delicious. Koibito Poke offers some easy and yummy ways to enjoy some of the season’s harvest.
Berries and peaches may not be popping up on salads again until next summer, but that’s no excuse to turn away the greens. There are many ways to give salads an autumn spin. Rather than spike salads with berries, consider chopped or slivered apples and pears, which are synonymous with fall. These fruits pair well with nuts like pecans and walnuts as well as soft cheeses (brie or goat cheese, for example). Rather than crisp iceberg or romaine, consider peppery arugula, hearty kale or shaved brussels sprouts.
Speaking of which, Brussels sprout is another star of the fall harvest. These mighty little guys are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. While shaved raw brussels can be an excellent base for a fall salad, the leaves can be roasted or air fried to make light and airy crisps for snacking. Brussels sprouts are also excellent as part of an autumn vegetable roast with other veggies such as hard squash (think butternut, acorn, delicata and kabocha), onions, carrots, potatoes, turnips and more.
Hard squash have their moment in the fall! They are beautiful to display as part of an autumn centerpiece. Think of combining multiple shapes and colors along with pumpkins for a festive holiday table display at Thanksgiving, for example. Beyond display, they are delicious to eat and are loaded with nutrients and healthy benefits, too. Roasting them is one of the easiest ways to enjoy them … and the creativity can level up from there!
For example, toss roasted veggies into a salad with those aforementioned apples and pears for a sweet and savory fall flavor profile over a bed of greens. Rather than a light and summery white wine vinaigrette, opt for a maple syrup- or apple cider-based vinaigrette for an autumn twist.
Dates are another great fall flavor. They are so versatile for savory and sweet dishes and can easily be added to give salads or side dishes another level of flavor and texture. Stuffed dates make an easy appetizer and dates can be made into butter or paste to top pumpkin pancakes or apple cinnamon bread.
Sweet potatoes are also in peak season and are a great item to add to any healthy fall menu. They are nutritious, filling and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. So get creative!
The team at Koibito Poke believes in eating with the seasons to enjoy produce at its very best. Eating with the seasons also allows variety and creativity. Eating healthy through all four seasons never has to be boring. Need some inspiration? Stop into a Koibito Poke location for a customized bowl that is hearty, healthy, delicious and always in season!
