Healthy Weeknight Meals for Fall

When autumn arrives, the cool air and fallen leaves make us crave cozy homecooked meals. After a summer of clean eating, you may be tempted to indulge in your favorite comfort foods, but healthy eating can be fun, filling and delicious!

There’s an abundance of seasonal vegetables that can be transformed into scrumptious meals for weeknight meals. What are some of our favorites to try this fall?

Grain Bowls

Barley, quinoa, farro, bulgur, wild rice and other whole grains are rich in protein, fiber, antioxidants and other nutrients that have been shown to reduce the risk of common health concerns. A few seasonal meal ideas with whole grains include:

• Farro with roasted butternut squash, mushrooms and Brussels sprouts
• Butternut squash boats filled with black beans, corn, tomatoes and herbs
• Chicken, long grain rice, sweet potato, Brussels sprouts and dried cranberries

Light Pasta Dishes

In moderation, pasta can be part of a healthy diet. It’s the sauces and toppings that can add calories and fat. Alfredo is a favorite among pasta lovers; how can you lighten it up for fall?

• Lightened-up alfredo sauce with low sodium chicken broth, 1% milk and plain Greek yogurt
• Seasonal alfredo sauce with pumpkin puree, instead of heavy cream

Healthy Soups

Soups are easy to make, versatile and store well for future meals. When the temperatures start to drop and the nights are cold enough for frost, stay warm with these soup recipes:

• Chicken chili with white beans, green chiles, corn and herbs
• Stuffed pepper soup with ground turkey, quinoa, chopped peppers and onions

Vegan Choices

A vegan diet focuses on fruits, vegetables and legumes. Vitamins, minerals and fiber help you feel full in the absence of meat, can help with weight loss and lower disease risk. What are some go-to vegan meal ideas for the autumn season?

When you’re not in the mood to cook, bring the family to Colony Diner. We use fresh seasonal ingredients to make delicious meals for all tastes and preferences. Visit our Wallingford restaurant today!