Insiders Viewpoint: Expert Supermarket Advice: Crisp Fall Apples. Jennifer Shea, SHOPPERS. Fruits And Veggies More Matters.org

The days are getting shorter and cooler, and the smell of autumn is in the air. It’s time to enjoy all the flavors that the fall harvest has to offer. And what says fall more than crisp local apples? Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite.

Apples are a delicious and great-for-you snack choice because …

    • One small apple contains only 80 calories.
    • They provide a good source fiber, which supports digestive health and helps with weight management.
    • They provide a good source of vitamin C which supports skin, immune and bone health.

Nutrition Bonus: Unpeeled apples have twice the fiber as, and are richer in antioxidants than peeled apples – so keep that peel on!

Check out these festive fall dishes …

    • Apple, Nut & Cheese Platter. Slice unpeeled Honeycrisp, Granny Smith and McIntosh apples then drizzle with lemon juice (to prevent browning). Select your favorite cheeses: cheddar, Parmesano-Reggiano, Brie, blue cheese. Then select your choice of nuts: walnuts, almonds, pecans. Arrange apples, cheeses, and nuts on an attractive cheese board or platter. Set out cheese knives and appetizer plates.
    • Baked Apples. Core Roma or Jonagold apples most of the way through (leave ½ inch on the bottom) and fill each with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of raisins, 1 tablespoon walnuts, a dash of cinnamon and top with ½ a teaspoon of salted butter. Place in a square baking dish and bake at 375° F for about 30 minutes.
    • Apples & Salad. Slice your favorite apple variety and toss with mixed greens, toasted pecans, dried cranberries and blue cheese. Top with a simple vinaigrette made with balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Jennifer Shea MS, MPH, RD
Corporate Dietitian
SHOPPERS

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