Heading to the farmer’s market? Here’s what to look for and how to prepare what’s in season now!

October is here and I must admit, I’m a little biased towards this month. The beginning of fall feels like a fresh start AND it doesn’t hurt that it also happens to be my birthday month as well.

All of that aside, I love the cozy fall favorites that pop onto my plate this time of year as well. As a true at heart introvert nothing says joy to me more than a big bowl of soup, some blankets and a book on a cool, crisp Fall day.

Here are some dishes you may want to try out this month featuring all the best of fall!

APPLES

Apple picking. Apple cider. Apple pie! We all know that apples are the quintessential fall fruit, but there are so many other ways to cook with them. From adding to soups (like below) to salads and easy sheet pan dinners, there are so many reasons to pick a few up this fall.

APPLE & PARSNIP SOUP WITH CRISPY PANCETTA

*Fingers crossed* but we might just officially be over the summer weather and heading into soup season. This simple soup combines two perfect fall ingredients: apples & parsnips to combine a creamy, satisfying soup without any cream! And while you could totally skip the crispy pancetta topping…why would you?

BROCCOLI

Fun fact: broccoli is my favorite vegetable. There, I said it. I know it gets a lot of hate but I believe it’s poorly misunderstood. It’s in fact an incredibly versatile and delicious (all the while good for you) addition to your plate.

ROASTED BROCCOLI SALAD WITH FETA

Ready to become a broccoli convert? Try this salad! No, seriously. I have seen with broccoli adverse diners go from skeptical to true believers in one simple bite and I think it has every bit to do with the fact that the broccoli is roasted until slightly crispy. Oh and the cheese. The cheese never hurts.

Not a fan of broccoli? Try roasting it and tossing with a simple vinaigrette and salty cheese.

TURNIPS

This fall root vegetable always reminds me of Thanksgiving and my grandfather. Dinner could not be served (properly) unless we had mashed turnips on the table. And I’ll be honest, this wasn’t always my favorite preparation growing up. But as an adult, I’ve found they are great roasted or used in place of potatoes like in the below stew.