Uncommon Seasonal Produce for Fall

By Sarah Kilpatrick, LMP Intern

Happy November! We are officially out of spooky season and into the holiday season (or maybe it’s just an excuse for me to buy all the seasonal candles as early as possible). Whatever this season reminds you of, if you’re from Pennsylvania, you probably think of produce like apples, squashes, and pumpkins. But today, let’s talk about some seasonal produce that isn’t as commonly thought of in November, but is in season nonetheless!

• Beets – these beautifully-colored vegetables are high in inorganic nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide when digested. This is a vasodilator, so eating beets may help to open up the vessels and reduce blood pressure! Try having some at dinner with this delicious salad.
• Cauliflower – high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, this vegetable also contains flavones, which is the white antioxidant pigment found in cauliflowers and other white vegetables. And did you know they can be added to smoothies?
• Mushrooms – mushrooms are high in antioxidant nutrients such as selenium, choline, and vitamin C. There are many different kinds, ranging from a basic white button mushroom to extravagant, expensive truffles. Try this twist on everyone’s favorite appetizer.
• Spinach – this green superstar is high in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, iron, and calcium. But it’s okay if you don’t like green juice – try it in this lasagna.
• Turnips – remember our friends, inorganic nitrates, which we talked about with beets? Turnips have them, too – along with vitamins C, K, folate, and fiber. If you’re tired of mashed potatoes, try some mashed turnips one night.

You can still enjoy your pumpkins and apples, but hey, now you know you have options.