13 Fruits and Vegetables That Taste So Much Better in the Fall

Apples

Africa Studio/ShutterstockVisit your local farmer's market or take the family on an apple picking trip for the freshest apples. They're perfect for snacking, baking, and even stopping headaches. Check out these other genius uses for apples (besides eating them).

Oranges

malialeon/ShutterstockOranges are commonly associated with summer, but from Florida to California, autumn is the best time to enjoy this citrus favorite. Use them to make healthy breakfast smoothies or eat them as a quick vitamin C-packed snack.

Grapes

Tim UR/ShutterstockWhile you won't find any grape ice cream this season (or any season), fall’s harvest brings in a bounty of fresh grapes in all varieties. Either as a snack or made into your favorite jam, now is the perfect time to bag a bunch.

Pomegranates

Tosa/ShutterstockFilled with antioxidants, stock up on this wonder fruit during the fall. Try juicing them to tap their full heart health benefits. (After all, that's why they're among the healthiest fruits you can eat.) The fruit and their seeds can also be thrown on top of salads as a colorful, edible garnish.

Broccoli

CHATCWORLD/ShutterstockWhether you enjoy it in salads, casseroles, or as a side dish, broccoli is definitely more nutritious than you realize, so be sure to stock up. Fall is the time to fill your cart with the year’s best tasting broccoli.

Brussels sprouts

julie deshaies/ShutterstockIf you think all there is to Brussels sprouts is a reputation for tasting disgusting, prepare to have your mind blown: Brussels sprouts have more vitamin C than oranges. So don't believe the cartoons that perpetuate this stereotype; enjoy these tasty green treats at their freshest. If you’re having trouble getting your family to eat them, try roasting them.

Mushrooms

Tatiana Volgutova/ShutterstockFall is the perfect time to enjoy your favorite mushrooms, whether they're white, cremini, or Portobello. (By the way, this is the difference between those 'shrooms.) Your local market will have the best variety of mushrooms at this time. Take the opportunity to try something new.

Cauliflower

mmkarabella/ShutterstockEnjoy this delicious vegetable either raw or cooked. You can even mash it for an alternative to mashed potatoes or turn it into a delicious pizza crust. Try purple varieties for an added treat.

Spinach

Djero Adlibeshe/ShutterstockTake the opportunity to taste spinach at its very best. Since this leafy green is filled with iron, fiber, and nitrates that keep your arteries from getting clogged, you’ll be fueling your body with the perfect nutrients for the cold weather ahead.

Cranberries

Tim UR/ShutterstockFrom preventing cancer to keeping your brain sharp, there are plenty of reasons to eat more cranberries. Enjoy this tart, sweet berry from autumn to winter. Try making your own cranberry juice or impress your Thanksgiving guests with homemade cranberry sauce.