Soon autumn will be in the air, and that means it’s time to start thinking about nourishing and comforting meals. With shorter days and cooler nights, it will be the perfect time to curl up with a good book and a delicious warm meal!

Here are some of the best foods to cook in autumn:

Root vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes and beets are in season in autumn, and they’re packed with nutrients. They’re also hearty and filling, making them perfect for cooler weather. If you want something sweet and tasty try our beets and sweets.

Winter squash: Winter squash such as butternut and acorn,  and pumpkin are also great options for autumn cooking. They’re versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to pies and desserts. If you haven’t tried chef’s favorite Delicata squash, try it this year. Try a simple recipe for roasting it with tasty toppings, and also try it in a crisp.

Apples: Apples are a classic autumn fruit, and they can be used in a variety of dishes, from pies and crumbles to salads and salsas. They’re also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. Here’s a fun way to get young ones in the kitchen with our Baked Apple Pretzel Boats.

Grains: Grains like quinoa, farro, and barley are a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious option for autumn meals. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, from boiling to roasting.

Lean protein: Lean protein like chicken, fish and tofu are a good way to add protein to your autumn meals. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to baking. If you would like to introduce tofu to your family, here’s a  winning recipe that is easy and seasonal.

In addition to choosing the right ingredients, there are a few cooking strategies that can make autumn meals easier:

Use one-pot meals: One-pot meals are a great way to save time and energy on cooking. Simply throw all  the ingredients into a pot and let it simmer.

Cooking ahead: Cooking ahead is a great way to have easy meals on hand for busy weeknights. Make a big batch of soup or chili on the weekend and freeze it in individual portions.

Use slow cookers: Slow cookers are a great way to cook hands-off meals. Simply throw the ingredients in the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Get creative with leftovers: Leftovers can be turned into a whole new meal with a little creativity. For example, you can use leftover roasted vegetables to make a salad, soup or omelet.

Here are some additional tips for making cooking easier in general:

Do your prep work ahead of time: This includes chopping vegetables, measuring out ingredients and setting out your cooking utensils.

Keep your kitchen organized: This will make it easier to find what you need and avoid making a mess.

Don’t be afraid to improvise: If you don’t have a certain ingredient, or if you don’t like the way a recipe is turning out, don’t be afraid to make changes.

Have fun! Cooking should be enjoyable, so don’t take it too seriously. Experiment with different recipes and flavors and find what you like best.

With these tips, you can easily cook delicious and easy autumn meals that will warm you up from the inside out. Start cooking again and you will love the way you feel!