Cooler weather is moving in, and with it comes a beautiful variety at the farmers market. Tons of superfoods hit their peak season in the fall, so be sure to stop by your farmer’s market weekly and take advantage of local treasures this time of year!

Nothing soothes the soul better than some homemade vegetable soup, butternut squash risotto, or warm baked apples on cool fall nights.

Try incorporating some fall superfoods in your dishes this week!

1. Apples

It’s apple picking season! Bring together some friends and family and make an outing of it. Take a trip to your local orchard, pick some apples and make a meal together!

Wash but don’t peel your apples to get the most nutrients from this fall superfood — their skin is especially packed with antioxidants and fiber.

Baked apples are great this time of year, just be sure to not drown your healthy treat in butter and sugar. Simply thinly slice the apples, place them on a baking sheet and sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and you will have a warm, delicious, superfood treat!

2. Parsnips

If you have never seen a parsnip, the best way to describe its appearance is it resembles a pale, white carrot.

Parsnips are a great source of potassium and fiber – and they can bring a sweet, nutty flavor to your favorite fall soup.

3. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is not just for painting and carving! It’s a great superfood too, rich in potassium, fiber, and lots of beneficial B vitamins.

Pumpkin bread will always be a fall staple, but try using pumpkin in some non-traditional ways this year. You may not expect it, but pumpkin tastes great in chili.

Smoked Pumpkin Chili is one of my favorite things to make this time of year. Serve pumpkin chili at a dinner party and your guests are sure to be impressed!

4. Pears

Pears are a great source of fiber and come packed with vitamin C. Try poaching pears for a delightful end to a fall dinner party!

If you are not familiar with poaching, it involves gently simmering a food in a flavorful liquid. Some recipes poach pears in very sugary liquid, which negates the purpose of eating this superfood. Instead, find a healthier recipe that perhaps uses 100% juice or water.

5. Squash

Winter squash can add brain healthy omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A to virtually any dish.

Roast diced squash with a little nutmeg as a side dish, incorporate it into baked goods, puree it for the base of a soup, or add it into rice and quinoa dishes for a sweet, savory addition to any meal.

6. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes can be found year round, but their season actually starts in September. Fall is the season to find the ripest sweet potatoes, loaded with vitamin A and iron.

Cut your sweet potato into thin, fry-like pieces and roast them in the oven with a little nutmeg. Serve as a beautiful side dish to your entrée of the night (perhaps pumpkin chili).

7. Pomegranates

Pomegranates have recently gained popularity because of their amazing antioxidant benefits, but they are also a great source of vitamin C and Folate.

Not to mention, they are an absolutely beautiful fruit with vivid pink/purple coloring. The seeds make a delicious, colorful topping for any salad or smoothie bowl!

8. Dates

Dates can bring up the fiber and potassium content of your favorite dessert, and are also an excellent addition to homemade granola bars. The dates help to bind all the ingredients together and keep the bars from falling apart.

Experiment with incorporating dates into your favorite fall baked good!