When it comes to seasonal produce, we tend to dream of warm summer months filled with fresh berries and tempting peaches. However, the cooler temperatures of autumn also mark prime harvesting time for a number of delicious superfoods. If you’re aiming for a more balanced diet this fall, take advantage of the season’s offerings by visiting your local farmers’ market. From pumpkins to parsnips, here are a few seasonal superfoods to help you stay healthy all autumn long.

Pumpkin

No list of fall superfoods would be complete without the undisputed food of the season: the pumpkin. Not only do they make excellent décor for your front porch, but they’re also good for you. Pumpkins are rich in potassium, and contain over 20 percent of your daily recommended intake of fibre.  Skip the sugary pumpkin spice latte and instead focus on other ways to incorporate this superfood into your diet.  Try cooked pumpkin in a warm salad or in a homemade puree, for a more nutritious take on this seasonal favourite.

Sweet potatoes

Potatoes have long been a staple at the Thanksgiving dinner table. But given the nutritional benefits associated with sweet potatoes, perhaps it’s time we switched over to the spud’s healthier cousin. Sweet potatoes provide 400 percent of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A and boast anti-inflammatory benefits. They also contain fewer calories and carbs than traditional potatoes. Whether you eat them boiled or mashed, as a side or on its own, this seasonal treat is a great addition to your diet.

Parsnips

When it comes to vegetables, a more colourful exterior typically means a greater number of antioxidants. Given their light brown exterior, parsnips are an unlikely superfood. Yet don’t be fooled by their unassuming appearance. The parsnip is actually extremely rich in potassium, fiber and Vitamin C, and is loaded with precious antioxidants. Considering their versatility, parsnips make an excellent side for almost any meal or a delicious soup. Try a salad or a parsnip hummus dip to help you embrace this hearty seasonal veggie.

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