by Margaret S Garrett - Published 6 months ago

Warm Comfort Foods: 6 Fruits & Veggies

As the weather cools down, we naturally crave warming, comforting foods.

While cooking fruits and vegetables can sometimes alter their nutritional content, it often makes them easier to digest. Whether it's for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, or desserts, here are some delicious ways to incorporate produce into cozy meals.

Swap salad greens for your favorite in...

Leafy greens are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, but salads aren't always the most comforting choice during colder months. Here are some alternatives.

...a tasty frittata

Frittatas are a simple and delicious way to showcase greens. Although traditionally egg-based, vegan recipes make this a versatile meal option.

...a bowl of savory oatmeal

Oatmeal doesn't have to be sweet, as this delicious mushroom and spinach bowl proves. Perfect for breakfast or a satisfying dinner.

...a chunky soup

Adding greens to your favorite soup recipe is a simple way to boost the nutritional value. We love this simple farro and white bean soup with chard and this arugula stracciatella soup for highlighting the greens.

Instead of just slicing, add apples to...

Fall is apple season, but a crisp apple isn't always the best option for a warming meal. Try incorporating apples into heartier dishes by adding them as toppings.

...a bowl of fall-spiced porridge

Get apple dessert flavors like cinnamon and vanilla, using hemp hearts for oats in this recipe.

...a stack of 10-minute pancakes

These vegan pancakes are ideal for a cozy morning, quick to make, and perfect with apples.

Instead of a smoothie, add bananas to...

Bananas are great for baking, so here are some recipes using them.

...a tasty loaf

Instead of regular banana bread, try this gluten-free blueberry banana bread recipe.

...protein pancakes

These pancakes use only three ingredients, so you get the most from your bananas. You can top them with other fruits, too.

...some healthy cookies

Use this recipe to make protein-packed cookies with whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Use peas as the base for a springy pasta dish instead of...

Peas are great and freeze well, so we always have them. These recipes are perfect if you're unsure how to use them in warm dishes.

...this Mediterranean green shakshuka

This vegan dish combines beans and peas with a variety of herbs, creating a warm and flavorful meal perfect for cold days. It's also packed with vitamins.

...a bright miso soup

If you're seeking an immune boost, this pea miso soup is a great fall dinner choice. It specifically calls for frozen peas.

Instead of a yogurt bowl, use berries to make...

While berries might be out of season, you likely have some in your freezer. These recipes feature them as prominently as if they were fresh.

...homemade jam

Making homemade jam is incredibly easy and doesn't require added sugar. Use any berries and enjoy it on your favorite bread or baked goods.

...this buckwheat breakfast bowl

If oats aren't your preference, try this buckwheat bowl with added antioxidants and top it with berries. You can stir frozen berries into the mix for a blended texture.

Use tomatoes as the base for dishes instead of simply slicing them...

...a delicious tomato soup

Whether you prefer a simple soup or a more gourmet version with carrots and red peppers, tomato soup is a classic choice that pairs well with a warm sandwich or on its own.

...an easier eggplant Parmesan

Even if you enjoy eggplant Parmesan, it's a labor-intensive dish. This one-pan recipe simplifies things by baking chopped tomatoes and eggplant together.

...a warming vegan shakshuka

This recipe, which has its roots in the Middle East and North Africa, highlights tomatoes but also includes a wide array of other vegetables.

The takeaway

The arrival of cooler weather doesn't have to signal the end of meals rich in fruits and vegetables. Instead, get inventive with how you include them in your warming dishes.

If you're seeking more inspiration, explore this list of nutrient-packed soups to energize your lunch breaks.