Apples are abundant in fall, making it the perfect season to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re growing your own apples or simply have a surplus, there are countless ways to enjoy them beyond traditional pies. From savory dishes to refreshing salads, here are 12 healthy and delicious ways to incorporate apples into your meals.
Preventing Browning
Before diving into your recipes, here’s a quick tip for keeping apples fresh after slicing: use lemon water or a citric acid solution to prevent browning. Chilling apples before cutting also helps slow the process. If you’re using conventionally-grown apples, peeling them removes pesticide residues, but organic apples can be used with skins intact after a good wash. Soaking apples in a baking soda solution (2 teaspoons per quart of water) for 15 minutes also removes residues.
Apple-Vegetable Appetizers
Start with small plates that pair apples with vegetables for a fresh twist on appetizers. For instance, make an apple salsa by chopping apples, tomatoes, and peppers, then adding green onions, lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of honey. For added texture and nutrition, mix in cilantro, avocado, or radishes. You can also combine whole grains like wheat or rye berries for a heartier option, topped with sharp cheese.
Another tasty dish is a whole wheat flatbread topped with thinly sliced apples, red onions, and crumbled goat cheese. Broil it until the apples soften and the cheese melts. For added flavor, caramelize the onions or include fresh figs or pecans. Garnish with fresh garden greens such as parsley, kale, or scallions.
Apple-Vegetable Soups
Cooking apples with vegetables makes for comforting, creamy soups—perfect for fall. Pair apples with parsnips and garlic for a savory soup, or mix apples with butternut squash or pumpkin for a sweeter version. Both soups are prepared similarly: cook a chopped onion in oil until soft, then add your apples and vegetables along with enough vegetable stock to cover. Simmer for about 20 minutes until tender, then blend into a smooth puree. Stir in a mixture of flour and milk for creaminess. Top with yogurt, toasted pumpkin seeds, or crumbled cheese for added richness.
Apple-Vegetable Salads and Sandwiches
Apples pair beautifully with leafy greens in salads. One favorite combination is arugula and apple with blue cheese dressing and toasted walnuts. As the season progresses, swap out arugula for spinach or other garden greens. Chinese cabbage or fennel also work well in apple-based slaws, especially when paired with a peanut dressing or a caraway seed vinaigrette.
For a crunchy sandwich option, layer thinly sliced apples with kohlrabi and cheese. Ripe peppers also make a great pairing with apples on sandwiches for an added crunch.
Roasting Apples with Vegetables
Roasting apples with vegetables is a simple way to enhance the natural sweetness and tanginess of both. Apples complement a variety of roasted root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes, as well as Brussels sprouts and winter squash. To roast, chop the vegetables and apples into bite-sized pieces, toss them in olive or canola oil, and season with salt and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 40 minutes, stirring every 10–15 minutes for even cooking. This method ensures a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors.
With these 12 healthy and flavorful ways to enjoy apples, you can embrace the season while nourishing your body. Whether you’re making soups, salads, or roasted dishes, apples offer a versatile and nutritious ingredient to elevate your meals. Enjoy exploring these delicious alternatives to the classic pie!