Fallin’ in love…

Fallin’ in love…..

Yes, the days are getting shorter and there is a chill in the air, but I do admit I simply love autumn!

Living in Toronto that glorious splendour is often short lived to 3-4 weeks before we set into the winter chill…but oh how glorious it is when we do have it!

Though there are a myriad of gorgeousness that happens in this season here are my top 3 things that I love about fall:

Colours

Ohhhhh… you all know that I simply adore complex colourations, but when Mother Nature presents all her splendour before the winter deep freeze…how wonderful it is!

Whether you take a walk in your neighbourhood, park, countryside or through a ravine there is no denying that nature is absolutely magnificent at this time of year.

Now is the perfect time to take some time for yourself and get lost in the glory of fall colours.

Farmers markets

Well now…you know I love my farmers’ markets. Given that I love all things gardening being flowers or fruits and vegetables, my green thumb talents are truly sadly lacking.

It is not without many, many visits to my favourite gardening nursery in the ‘hood (Sheridan Nurseries has the most attentive, knowledgeable and patient staff ever!), I have resigned myself to the fact I may be a lost cause on a few points other than my herb pots.

But those markets at this time of year….swoon. I do appreciate the dedication, work and energy the farmers do to bring local deliciousness to my table.

Though perhaps a smidge of a fail with my gardening skills, thanks to the markets I can bring home fabulous vegetables that I will make into glorious soups to enjoy the next few months.

Call me simple, but there is something about a flavourful, healthy soup, crusty artisan bread and a salad that is perfect for lunch, dinner or for the soul.

I can’t lie…it is my guilty pleasure as my soups take 2 days to lovingly make…but they are rather fabulous.

Check out my ginger carrot soup recipe   … super easy and deliciousness that will warm you up even on the coldest fall day.

It’s rather yum but I will be sharing my Autumn Harvest soup recipe soon that has a ton of options given your preferences and bringing all that harvest wonderfulness home.

Pumpkins

Gosh.. what about the colour! Truly nothing speaks to autumn as much as a pumpkin. Orange, white or green….whatever suits you. I love the myriad of colours, shapes and sizes.

So not only are they a beautiful fall highlight, but they are rich in vitamin A, beta carotene, are a natural anti oxidant and help with immunity to name just a few. So do not throw that Jack-o-lantern out!

Carve up that pumpkin, peel, and seed it, cut into 1″ chunks and roast with olive oil, pumpkin spices (cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg)and a smidge of sea salt for about an hour at 375 F. Puree and further season to your taste for a yummy, healthy addition to so may recipes.

I freeze in ½ cup portions to add to my favourite recipes whenever needed. There is nothing like the smell of freshly baked pumpkin spice muffins or a pumpkin pie.

I am a huge fan of pumpkin risotto (recipe to come 😉 ), and using as a filling for home made ravioli….sooooo many options!

Ahhh …..the tip of the iceberg of all that is fabulous about fall. So much to enjoy for your health in the fresh air, for your senses with the visual splendour and scents and all things yummy to keep you and your family healthy.

What’s not to love…?

Share your favourite fall moments…I’d love to hear from you!

Xoxo- Sandra