For many of us, cooler weather means dusting off the stovetop and whipping up our favorite fall meals. But, from stews and casseroles to creamy soup and pumpkin pie, it’s easy to overlook our sugar, fat or calorie intake.
“According to the National Institutes of Health, people tend to eat more and exercise less during the colder months. On average, people gain an extra pound or two every year,” says Heidi Kell, a dietitian at Lafayette’s Good Samaritan Medical Center. “Over a lifetime, those pounds can really add up!”
This fall, put a healthy spin on some fall favorites with these 10 quick and healthy recipes you can make at home:
Carrot-Oatmeal Muffins
Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Using oats, carrots, raisins and walnuts, whip up these sweet and healthy treats.
Stuffed Cabbage Soup
Tuck this recipe away for a rainy day. This warm and simple comfort food is easy to make and always a family favorite.
Chicken Noodle Soup
It’s just not fall without a warm bowl of homemade chicken soup. Dice up fresh carrots, celery, tomatoes and onion to toss into this flavorful creation.
Tofu Stir-Fry
This dish only takes minutes to prepare. Shrimp make a great addition if you’re a seafood-lover. Serve it over brown rice or rice noodles for a colorful fall dinner.
Homemade Chicken Parmigiana
Put a healthy spin on this Italian favorite by making it at home. This filling dish is the perfect dinner for cooler weather.
Stovetop Chili
This gluten-free recipe is packed with flavor. Make a big pot to feed your whole family — or yourself for a week!
Roasted Asparagus
You only need three ingredients to make this delicious side. Mix up your greens by grabbing a bundle of these healthy spears and roasting them to perfection.
Do-It-Yourself Trail Mix
If you’re heading out to sight-see the fall foliage, consider packing some of this easy, do-it-yourself trail mix. Dried fruit, nuts and healthy cereal make a quick and tasty snack.
Tasty Pumpkin Pie
With a sugar-free crust and rich pumpkin flavor, this recipe is a must-have for your next family, or holiday, gathering.
Apple Coffee Cake
Use some fresh fall apples and raisins to create this deliciously moist coffee cake. It’s the perfect autumn indulgence!
