Embrace the Flavors of Fall: 3 Seasonal Recipes to Nourish Your Body

As the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, it’s the perfect time to refresh your diet with the best of what the season has to offer. At X3 Health, we believe that eating with the seasons not only supports your health but also enhances the taste and nutritional value of your meals. This month, we’re excited to share three wholesome, fall-inspired recipes that align perfectly with the seasonal bounty available at your local markets.

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Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup pecans, toasted

• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Maple Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Roast the butternut squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.

3. Prepare the kale: While the squash is roasting, massage the chopped kale with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt until it becomes tender and slightly wilted.

4. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, kale, dried cranberries, pecans, and goat cheese. Drizzle with the maple vinaigrette and toss to combine.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy this deliciously seasonal salad!

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Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Root Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 1 beet, peeled and cubed

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the broth is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

3. Roast the vegetables: Toss the sweet potato, carrots, beet, and red onion in olive oil, cinnamon, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

4. Assemble the bowl: Divide the cooked quinoa between bowls. Top with the roasted vegetables, pumpkin seeds, and crumbled feta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

5. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, nourishing bowl!

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Spiced Apple and Oatmeal Bake

Ingredients:

• 2 large apples, peeled and chopped

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup almond milk

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the apple mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, rolled oats, almond milk, maple syrup, walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.

3. Add the egg: If using an egg, whisk it lightly and stir it into the mixture. For a vegan option, prepare a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for 5 minutes, then add to the mixture.

4. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.

5. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for an extra touch of indulgence.

These fall-inspired recipes are just a few ways to embrace the season’s fresh, flavorful produce. Eating seasonally not only enhances your meals but also ensures you’re getting the most nutrients and flavors out of your ingredients. Try these recipes in your kitchen and share them with loved ones to fully savor the season.