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It’s that transitional seasonal time of year. As we ease out of watermelon agua frescas and transition to Pumpkin Spice Lattes, it can be fun to incorporate the best of the season into your meal plans. Today I want to share some fun and economical Summer to Fall Recipes.

This time of year I pull out my pumpkins and fall decor and slowly put items out. I want to enjoy that transition from summer to fall gradually so by putting out decor little by little, I feel like I can truly embrace this transition time.

This time of year is a great time to start collecting recipes to update your fall meal plan. Using printable meal plan templates or a bullet journal, you can start thinking about the great fall dinners you are going to make. We have a Fall Produce guide that is helpful as well, especially if you want to save some money at the grocery store.

Summer To Fall Recipe Transition 

As we transition from summer to fall and begin thinking about eating seasonally, here are some autumn fruits and veggies that you’ll begin to see popping up in your grocery stores. Some of these items are available year-round, but if you have a farmer’s market near you, start looking for this fresh produce as early as late summer. Get a jump on fall deliciousness and start incorporating some of these vegetables and fruits into your meals now.

Peaches

Peaches are in their prime right now. There is an abundance of this sweet juicy fruit that is available this time of year. I love to make fresh homemade peach ice cream for a fun and refreshing dessert idea. It does not take a long time to prepare and it really makes for a fun late summer frozen treat.

Or try some Peach Iced tea for a refreshing drink on a hot day. Peach Cobbler is always a family hit to enjoy the fruit this season. 

Another great easy recipe is Peach Pecan Muffins from scratch. Made with chunks of peach, chopped pecans, and a simple muffin recipe, these are perfect for a late summer morning breakfast or brunch idea.

Zucchini

Zucchini is still widely available at farmers’ markets and grocery stores at low prices. Zucchini is so versatile for main dishes, side dishes, and dessert. Try a Zucchini Casserole or Zucchini Boats for dinner. Try it with some tomatoes for a side dish or bake Zucchini Muffins for breakfast or dessert.

Apples

Apples are abundant during the fall season with many varieties from which to choose. Apples are a versatile fruit that can be used in sweet as well as savory dishes. Apples are loaded with nutrients, fiber and are a great source of antioxidants. From ciders to desserts and from smoothies to salads, apples are a favorite way to celebrate the autumn season. Apples are great for lunch box snacks and they are especially delicious with this Easy Caramel Sauce.

Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is widely available year-round, but it’s traditionally a fall and winter vegetable. With its sweet and buttery flesh, butternut has a variety of uses. You’ll find it in stews, soups, pasta, and risottos just to name a few. It works well in savory dishes but can also be found incorporated into sweet dishes. You can even make a delicious Sweet Baked Butternut squash as a great vegetable side dish.

Broccoli

This cruciferous vegetable is available year-round, but its peak season is fall through early spring. Did you know that one cup of chopped broccoli provides well over 100 % of the daily requirement of vitamin K which is essential to good bone health? It’s also and an excellent source of fiber as well as a multitude of vitamins and nutrients such as B6, B1, potassium, copper, and manganese.

It’s also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, protein, and zinc. Incorporate broccoli into your fall meal with this Broccoli Pasta Salad or this Pepper Broccoli Salad. When things start to cool down, try this easy homemade Broccoli Cheese soup recipe that your family is sure to love.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is sometimes referred to as broccoli’s cousin and the two are often found together in veggie medleys. Cauliflower is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, protein, vitamin K, and vitamin B6. It’s a great choice if you are on a low-carb diet too! I have a great Cauliflower recipe in the works that I will be sharing on the blog here soon. Try some Cheesy Cauliflower for a tasty side dish. 

Pears

Pears, like apples, are abundant in the fall. Full of antioxidants, dietary fiber, and minerals, they are not only a sweet treat but healthy, too. Pears work in savory dishes as well as desserts. Pears can be grilled, baked, added to salads, and crafted into tarts and pies. 

With so many healthy and delicious fall fruits and vegetables available starting in late summer, you’ll have no trouble making the transition from warm weather to cooler temperatures with these delicious and versatile produce options to tempt your palate.

Finally, why not end the season with S’mores? Try these S’ mores Cookies or this S’mores Dip for a fun way to say goodbye to summer. 

If you have a farmers market near you, check out our helpful Farmer’s Market Shopping List guide.

Each passing season should be enjoyed and embraced. We are all about making the most of our time here on Organized Island. Be sure to check us out on Instagram for more inspiration and sign up to be on our weekly newsletter.

How do you embrace the transitional time between summer and fall?