As the mercury drops outside, our cravings shift towards warm, satisfying meals that fill our bellies and soothe our souls.
And what better way to do just that than with a collection of fall recipes that pack a flavorful punch? While it’s true that comfort foods like hearty stews, rich sauces, and creamy mac and cheese can be indulgent, we’re not about sacrificing taste for health.
Instead, we’ve curated 32 healthy fall recipes that are both nourishing and delectable, ensuring you can enjoy the cozy comforts of autumn without compromising your dietary goals.
3-Ingredient Honey Chicken Wings
After a long day at the office, unwinding with a round of pool and some satisfying bar food is often the perfect way to unwind. However, while indulging in these tasty treats can be a great stress-reliever, it’s not exactly the healthiest option either. That’s why we’ve created a recipe that combines the flavors you love with a healthier twist – our Honey Chicken Wings are finger-licking good and surprisingly nutritious too! By baking them instead of frying, we’ve significantly reduced the fat and calorie content, making this dish a great choice for those looking to make a few tweaks to their diet. And the best part? You only need three ingredients: chicken wings, Italian seasoning, and honey. Simply coat your wings with the seasoning, bake until crispy, then drizzle with honey – it’s that easy! Here are the details: Per serving, you can expect approximately 527 calories, 37g of fat, 26g of protein, 23g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 6.2g of sugar. Try our recipe tonight and experience the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition.
Instant Pot Stuffed Squash
Hosting dinner for friends? Surprise them with this Instant Pot Stuffed Squash that’s bursting with the flavors and hues of fall. The sweetness of the squash is perfectly balanced by the satisfying crunch from the pecans and pumpkin seeds, while the tanginess of the pomegranate seeds adds a delightful surprise. And the best part? This show-stopper can be prepared in just 15 minutes, thanks to the Instant Pot’s time-saving magic. Not only does it save you precious time, but it also opens up new possibilities for cooking tougher cuts of meat at an affordable price. If you don’t have an Instant Pot yet, consider investing in one – and get ready to impress your guests with this delectable dish. Per serving: Calories 416, Fats 17g, Protein 10g, Carbs 67g, Fiber 12g, Sugar 22g.
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Chilli
If you’re searching for a chili that’s both comforting and light, this Butternut Squash Chili is an excellent choice. Its warm, inviting flavor profile is enhanced by the subtle kick from the jalapeños. Meanwhile, the addition of black beans provides a delightful contrast in texture, making each spoonful satisfying yet surprisingly light. This is due in part to the fact that black beans are an impressive source of plant-based protein, with one cup of cooked beans providing a substantial 30% of your daily recommended intake. Additionally, they’re an excellent provider of dietary fiber, covering a full 60% of your daily needs. Furthermore, black beans have been shown to possess beneficial effects on bone health, as they’re rich in essential minerals like manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus. According to the nutrition information, each serving of this chili contains: Calories – 149, Fats – 2.8g, Protein – 9g, Carbs – 28g, Fiber – 9g, Sugar – 4.5g.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Dates
Think you don’t like Brussels Sprouts? Think again! My recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Dates is a game-changer. The secret lies in the cooking method and added flavors. We start by sautéing the sprouts in bacon fat, which gives them a rich, savory taste. This process also caramelizes their natural sugars, making them sweet instead of bitter. To take it to the next level, we add a date paste that adds even more layers of sweetness. And let’s not forget the crispy bacon that brings everything together. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new. Per serving: Calories 251, Fats 18g, Protein 7.6g, Carbs 17g, Fiber 5g, Sugar 8.6g.
Roasted Root Vegetables
If you’re struggling to get your kids to eat their veggies, try serving them Roasted Root Vegetables. The key is to bring out the natural sweetness in these vegetables through a process called caramelization. This occurs when you roast the veggies in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized. To take it to the next level, drizzle the roasted veggies with a honey-Dijon sauce for an added touch of sweetness and a hint of heat. Don’t worry about the prep work being too much, as this recipe uses three different vegetables: carrots, parsnips, and red potatoes. You can chop them by hand or use a food processor to make it easier. Here’s what you’ll get per serving: 110 calories, 4g of fat, 2g of protein, 17g of carbs, 3g of fiber, and 6g of sugar.
Italian Style Sausage & Squash Chilli
Are you struggling to get your kids to eat their veggies? Look no further! This delicious and nutritious Chili recipe is a game-changer. By using Italian Sausage instead of traditional ground beef, you’ll add an earthy flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, the addition of three types of beans provides a boost of fiber – one serving actually meets close to 60% of your daily needs. To sweeten things up, squash puree is used, making it an excellent way to sneak in some extra veggies. With its chunky texture and smoky flavor, this Chili is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Per Serving: Calories: 445; Fats: 24.6g; Protein: 24.4g; Carbs: 31.8g; Fiber: 9.4g; Sugar: 6g.
Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl
It’s alarming to think that most adults aren’t meeting their daily veggie quota, with a staggering 90% failing to get enough fruit or veggies. However, there is hope for incorporating more plant-based goodness into your morning routine. One simple yet effective way to boost your veggie intake is by adding them to your breakfast. My Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl recipe is a game-changer in this regard. This dish is a masterclass in contrasting textures and flavors, with the sweetness of sweet potatoes balanced by the spiciness of [insert spices], the crunch of hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds, and the creaminess provided by Greek yogurt. The addition of vanilla extract takes the flavor profile to new heights. But what truly sets this recipe apart is the nutritional powerhouse that is sweet potato. These humble tubers are a rich source of Vitamins A and C, making them an excellent choice for supporting immune function. They’re also a boon for bone health, thanks to their magnesium content, and provide a whopping amount of fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Per serving, this recipe delivers 312 calories, with 9.6g of fat, 9.3g of protein, 50g of carbs, 8.4g of fiber, and 19g of sugar. So why not give it a try and start your day off on the right foot?
Harvest Quinoa Salad with Pumpkin Yogurt Dressing
Salads can be a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, but let’s be honest – many salads can be rather unexciting. That’s why this Harvest Quinoa Salad stands out as a flavorful and textured masterpiece. The sweetness of the beets, butternut squash, and apples is beautifully balanced by the tartness of the cranberries, while the quinoa provides a satisfying crunch. And let’s not forget the pecans – their crispy texture adds an irresistible depth to the dish. But what truly sets this salad apart is its homemade dressing, which is so good that you might just want to drink it (no judgment here!). Beyond its impressive flavor profile, this quinoa-based salad also boasts some impressive health benefits. As a good source of plant-based protein, it’s an excellent addition to any meal. Additionally, quinoa contains essential minerals like manganese and magnesium, which are crucial for bone health – and it’s gluten-free to boot! If you’re looking to get creative with your salads or breakfast bowls, this recipe is the perfect starting point. Simply add some of these ingredients to your favorite bowl and enjoy the ride: beets, butternut squash, apples, cranberries, quinoa, and pecans.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Chips
Satisfy your potato chip cravings without compromising on health with Air Fryer Sweet Potato Chips. These crunchy treats are not only delicious but also significantly healthier than their fried counterparts. The key to this recipe is the air fryer, which eliminates the need for deep-frying and reduces fat and calorie intake by a significant margin.
Making these sweet potato chips is surprisingly easy. Begin by slicing your sweet potatoes into thin strips using a mandolin slicer, then spritz them with olive oil. Cook them in the air fryer for approximately 7 minutes or until crispy, before seasoning with salt to taste.
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can easily purchase a high-quality one at an affordable price. And if you’re concerned about nutritional values, rest assured that each serving of these sweet potato chips contains just 51 calories, 1g of fat, 1g of protein, 11g of carbs, 2g of fiber, and 2g of sugar.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash
The ultimate comfort food has arrived! Imagine succulent chicken breasts, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing all mingling with sweet strands of spaghetti squash. It’s a match made in heaven. This indulgent dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a nutritious boost. Rich in Vitamins A and C, it’s a powerhouse of health benefits, including a nice dose of heart-healthy potassium. And the best part? You can enjoy it without sacrificing flavor for nutrition. Per serving, you’ll get: 367 calories, 22g of fats, 26g of protein, 19g of carbs, 4g of fiber, and 7g of sugar.
Herb Crusted Salmon
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with my Herb Crusted Salmon recipe, perfect for seafood enthusiasts. The dish features tender salmon fillets smothered in a medley of fresh herbs, served alongside succulent cherry tomatoes and finished with a drizzle of rich balsamic vinegar. This visually stunning dish is sure to tantalize your senses and leave you craving more.
But the allure of this recipe extends beyond its impressive presentation – salmon also boasts an impressive array of nutritional benefits. Packed with heart-healthy omega-3s, B vitamins that support brain function, and selenium, a powerful antioxidant, every bite is not only delicious but also good for you.
Per serving, you can expect:
Calories: 333
Fats: 20g
Protein: 27g
Carbs: 11g
Fiber: 2.7g
Sugar: 6.2g
Lemony Quinoa with Butternut Squash
Indulge in the flavors of autumn with this delightful vegetarian quinoa dish. The combination of toasted almonds, sautéed squash, and creamy Parmesan cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. To take it to the next level, fresh herbs add a burst of freshness to each bite. Not only is the presentation stunning, but the ingredients also bring numerous health benefits. Almonds, for instance, are an excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, Vitamin E for radiant skin, and magnesium for healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, incorporating almonds into your diet may aid in weight loss. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving: Calories – 227, Fats – 17g, Protein – 6g, Carbs – 15g, Fiber – 4g, Sugar – 2g.
Quinoa Feta & Pistachio Stuffed Acorn Squash
Looking for more vegetarian options? Look no further. Stuffed Acorn Squash is a game-changer, with its rich flavors and impressive nutritional profile. The creamy feta cheese perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the squash, while the roasted pistachios add a delightful crunch. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings everything together, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is healthy. And let’s not forget about the star of the show: acorn squash itself. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also packed with vitamins A and C, making it a nutrient-dense addition to any meal. Plus, it’s rich in bone-building minerals like magnesium and manganese, making it a great choice for those looking to support their overall health. Per serving, you can expect: 183 calories, 10g of fat, 4g of protein, 22g of carbohydrates, 6g of fiber, and just 1g of sugar.
Mexican Bean Salad
Fall’s arrival is a perfect excuse to indulge in rich, comforting dishes, but sometimes you crave something lighter and fresher. That’s where my Mexican Bean Salad comes in – a flavorful and vibrant recipe that’s bursting with the bold flavors of Mexico.
This salad is a masterclass in textures and tastes, featuring tender black beans, sweet corn, crunchy red bell peppers, and a kick of heat from jalapeno peppers. What’s more, its unique blend of spices and herbs creates a dish that only improves with time – making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
When storing your salad, be sure to use airtight containers that will keep the flavors and textures intact. I recommend opting for glass containers like these, which not only preserve food freshness but also promote eco-friendliness.
Of course, if you’re not a fan of glass containers, BPA-free plastic alternatives are a safe bet. And if you’re looking for more inspiration for your summer salads, be sure to check out this collection.
Classic Savory Pumpkin Soup
As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm and comforting bowl of soup to thaw out your senses. This Pumpkin Soup is just the remedy, offering a rich, creamy, and sweet experience that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied. And the best part? It can be whipped up in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick pick-me-up. With its impressive nutritional profile, featuring 143 calories, 6g of fats, 3g of protein, 22g of carbs, and a generous helping of fiber and sugar per serving, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken with Fall Vegetables
Need a quick and delicious dinner option that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken. With just ten minutes of prep time, you can have this flavorful dish on the table in no time. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze with only one sheet pan to worry about. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, caramelized vegetables, and tangy cranberries provides a hearty and satisfying meal. But it’s the Dijon mustard-maple syrup glaze that really takes this dish to the next level, adding a depth of flavor that’s both savory and sweet. And with 329 calories per serving, you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
Per Serving:
Calories: 329
Fats: 6g
Protein: 48g
Carbs: 21g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 9g
Stuffed Delicata Squash
Looking for a romantic dinner idea to impress your date? Look no further than this Stuffed Delicata Squash recipe. This autumnal dish is packed with flavors, including cranberries, apples, ground pork, leeks, and fennel. What’s impressive is that it doesn’t require much prep time at all. In fact, the hardest part will be waiting for it to bake! Not only is this squash stuffed with goodness, but it’s also a nutritious option, boasting high levels of protein to keep you satisfied. You might not even have room for dessert after this filling meal. If you do decide to indulge in something sweet, consider pairing it with some rich and healthy dark chocolate, like the 85% cocoa variety. After all, it’s filled with antioxidants that are good for you. Check out more high-calorie recipes if you’re looking for inspiration.
Delicata Squash Salad
Got extra squash on hand? Turn it into a Squash Salad that’s both scrumptious and nutritious. The slightly bitter kale is beautifully balanced by the natural sweetness of roasted squash, sweet potatoes, and crisp apples. Topped with a creamy, tangy tahini dressing, this salad is a flavor bomb. But what really sets it apart is its impressive nutritional profile: one serving provides nearly 300% of your daily Vitamin A needs, as well as over 60% of your daily Vitamin C requirements. That’s like giving your immune system a superhero boost! Per serving, you can expect: Calories – 310; Fats – 19g; Protein – 5g; Carbs – 35g; Fiber – 5g; Sugar – 10g.
Salmon Spaghetti Squash Bake
Indulge in a guilt-free dinner experience with the Salmon Spaghetti Squash Bake. This dish is a masterclass in balancing flavors, boasting cheesy and savory notes alongside a subtle kick. But what truly sets it apart is its nutritional profile – by using salmon as the protein source and spaghetti squash as the starch, you’ll be enjoying a meal that’s not only satisfying but also surprisingly healthy.
One of the key players in this recipe’s success is the humble spaghetti squash. Low in calories yet high in fiber, it makes an excellent addition to any weight loss regimen. Additionally, its beta-carotene content provides DNA-protecting benefits – a true win-win for your health.
Per serving, you can expect:
Calories: 665
Fats: 42g
Protein: 41g
Carbs: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 13g
Sweet Potato Lentil Soup
Indulge in a hearty and flavorful Meatless Monday meal with this Sweet Potato Lentil Soup. The creamy blend of sweet potatoes, lentils, and coconut milk is a perfect harmony of savory and sweet notes. A hint of ginger adds warmth, while the hemp hearts bring a satisfying earthy depth to the dish. Not only do they enhance the flavor, but hemp hearts also offer impressive nutritional benefits, boasting omega-3s and the amino acid arginine, which supports heart health and may even alleviate PMS symptoms. This versatile ingredient can be used not only in soups but also in smoothies or baked goods. For those looking to incorporate hemp hearts into their diet, they can be easily sourced online. Nutritionally, each serving of this soup provides 272 calories, with a balance of 14g fat, 11g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and a significant 9g of fiber, along with only 3g of sugar.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Farro & Mushrooms
Indulge in the earthy flavors of this plant-based masterpiece, where mushrooms bring umami, farro adds nutty notes and texture, while sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness. The peppery kick from arugula and crunchy bite from red cabbage create a delightful balance. The crowning glory is a homemade rosemary balsamic dressing that’s simply fall in a bowl. Not only does farro contribute to the dish’s texture and nutty flavor, but it’s also packed with nutrients, boasting more fiber than many popular grains. As an added bonus, it’s a good source of protein, providing 6 grams per 1/2 cup serving. This helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. And the best part? Farro is versatile – use it as a stuffing, add it to salads, or create a hearty soup. Ready to give farro a try? You can find some here.
Roasted Pumpkin Frittata with Feta
Indulge in the versatility of this Roasted Pumpkin Frittata, a dish that can be savored at any time of day. The harmonious blend of creamy eggs, melted feta cheese, and roasted pumpkin creates a rich and satisfying experience. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin is beautifully balanced by the saltiness of the feta, while the green onions add a savory depth without overpowering the dish.In addition to its irresistible flavor profile, this frittata boasts impressive nutritional benefits. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, providing a boost to overall well-being. They also contain choline, essential for building and maintaining healthy cell membranes, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect the eyes.To prepare this delightful dish, start by cooking it on the stovetop before transferring it to the oven. To ensure a seamless transition, be sure to use an oven-safe skillet – I recommend an iron skillet like this one, not only for its safety but also for its ability to distribute heat evenly.
Roasted Low Carb Pumpkin Soup
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Roasted Pumpkin Soup, a low-carb delight that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This vibrant and creamy soup will have your family flocking to the kitchen, drawn by its irresistible aroma. So be prepared for some impromptu snacking sessions! With only 80 calories per serving, this recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a guilt-free way to boost your vitamin intake. In fact, one serving provides a whopping 170% of your daily Vitamin A needs. Here’s what you can expect from each serving: Calories: 80; Fats: 4g; Protein: 4g; Carbs: 8g; Fiber: 1g; Sugar: 4g.
Instant Pot Beets
If you’re looking for a side dish to pair with your pot roast, look no further than these Instant Pot Beets. Not only are they incredibly tender and sweet, but they’re also ready in under 30 minutes – making them a quick and easy addition to your meal. But beets aren’t just delicious, they’re also packed with nutrients that offer numerous health benefits. They’re an excellent source of iron, which is essential for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, beets contain inorganic nitrates, which can help regulate healthy blood pressure and even provide a boost during high-intensity exercise. Just be mindful when preparing them, as they have a tendency to stain your hands bright red – although using gloves can certainly mitigate this issue. Per serving, you can expect: 73 calories, 1g of fat, 3g of protein, 16g of carbohydrates, 5g of fiber, and 11g of sugar.
Almond Flour Pumpkin Bread
The allure of pumpkin pie is undeniable, especially during the fall season. However, for those adhering to a low-carb diet, this beloved dessert becomes a no-go due to its substantial carb content.
A single slice can pack up to 19 grams of carbs, nearly exceeding daily net carb allowances. While the thought of indulging in pumpkin pie might be tempting, it’s not worth compromising dietary goals.
Fortunately, this low-carb pumpkin bread recipe offers a solution. By replicating the flavors of traditional pumpkin pie without the excess carbs, you can enjoy a delicious and guilt-free treat.
This bread boasts only 2 grams of net carbs per serving, making it an ideal option for those watching their carb intake. Furthermore, each serving provides a respectable 11 grams of fiber, ensuring you’ll feel full and satisfied.
To achieve this impressive nutritional profile, the recipe relies on blanched almond flour and coconut flour, both of which are naturally low in carbs and rich in essential nutrients.
Almond flour, in particular, is an excellent source of Vitamin E, supporting healthy skin. Its manganese and magnesium content also benefits bone health.
Coconut flour, meanwhile, is a rich source of iron and fiber, promoting healthy digestion. As an added bonus, both flours are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Per serving, this low-carb pumpkin bread recipe yields the following nutritional profile:
Calories: 116
Fats: 9g
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 13g
Fiber: 11g
Sugar: 1g
Apple Mozzarella Pecan Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Indulging in meat-based dishes is a common pleasure for many, myself included. However, it’s also essential to strike a balance and allow ourselves the occasional break from the savory. This refreshing salad perfectly embodies that philosophy, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Roasted Butternut Squash Cubes
When it comes to pairing a side dish with your Turkey dinner, look no further than this delicious Roasted Butternut Squash. With its rich flavor profile, thanks to the combination of olive oil and spices, the natural sweetness of the squash is allowed to shine through. What’s more, this nutritious side dish is also packed with vitamins A and C, as well as potassium – a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health. So, indulge in this tasty treat without any guilt! Per serving, you can expect: 151 calories, 5g of fat, 2g of protein, 26g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, and 4g of sugar.