It's Apple Season!
Adapted from guest post contributed by Isidora (Isi) L. Muñoz Segovia, Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator
As the weather turns colder, enjoying fruits may seem less appealing when all you crave is snuggling by the woodfire with warm, freshly baked cookies – yum! While those cozy moments are something to cherish, you might find yourself wondering about the absence of delicious watermelons, peaches, and mangoes that once adorned your local grocery store shelves, providing a refreshing respite from scorching days. Is it the end of fresh fruit season?
Certainly not! It's time for cranberries, apples, pomegranates, citrus fruits, and pears to take the spotlight. In this article, we'll explore some mouthwatering apple recipes to savor this season, and we'll dive into the nutritional benefits of fruits, particularly apples, to remind you that fresh and healthy options are still in abundance, even as the temperature drops.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that fruits and vegetables comprise one-half of our plates. Fruits supply fiber, and fiber consumption is linked to low cardiovascular disease and obesity cases. Fruits also supply a variety of vitamins and minerals to the diet and have components that function as antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents and bolster our immune systems with vital components like vitamin C.
Now let me share with you some delicious recipes to incorporate one of the stars of the fall season: apple crisp and easy microwave applesauce!
Apple Crisp
Ingredients
5 medium apples
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed and divided
½ cup whole wheat flour, divided
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Non-stick cooking spray
½ stick (2 ounces) cold, unsalted butter
1½ cups quick oats Optional Ingredients
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Materials
9-inch square baking dish
Cutting board
Large bowl
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Medium bowl
Sharp knife
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Rinse and cut apples in half, lengthwise. Remove any stems. Cut out the center core of the apple that contains the seeds. Do not peel. Place apples cut side down. Use a sharp knife to cut apples into ⅛-inch slices. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 Tablespoon of flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg, if using. Mix well. Spray baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the apple mixture into a baking dish. Spread evenly. Dice butter into smaller cubes, using a sharp knife. In a medium bowl, combine remaining brown sugar and flour, oats, and butter. Mix with hands until crumbly. Spread oat and flour mixture over apple mixture. Bake uncovered on the middle rack of the oven for 40 minutes or until the top is lightly browned or bubbly. Let sit for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Easy Microwave Applesauce
Ingredients
6 apples, peeled, cored and quartered
¼ cup water
⅓ cup sugar
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Place apples and water in a 2-quart microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid. Cook on HIGH for 6 to 8 minutes, or until apples are easily pierced with a fork. Add sugar and cinnamon. Use a potato masher or a fork to crush apples into smooth or chunky applesauce.
ENJOY!
Are you looking for ways to stretch your food budget and create healthy and delicious meals at home? Our SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators can help you gain the skills and confidence to create meals your family will love while also making the most of your time and budget.
Healthy Acadia’s Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators offer year-round cooking and nutrition classes in partnership with schools and organizations throughout Hancock and Washington counties. To learn more or schedule a class, contact Mandy or Shannon in Washington County, and Isi or Lizzie in Hancock County.