Inspired by the New Year, many of us may be looking for new ways to refresh our diets and lifestyles for a full year of success. We know achieving wellness is all about taking small, but meaningful steps that are easy to incorporate and are sustainable and an easy way to do this is by including more seasonal produce into your meals. Here are eight winter fruits and vegetables along with some super easy ways to incorporate them into your daily diet.

 

#1 Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts are in season during the fall and winter months and make a delicious addition to your lunchtime salad or dinnertime side. Brussel sprouts can be air fried or boiled, but one our favorite ways to enjoy them is roasted. Simply rinse your bundle of Brussel sprouts in cool water, cut off the stems then coat in avocado oil with a light sprinkling of Pink Himalayan Salt. Pop in the oven at 350 degrees and bake for 40-45 minutes then enjoy. It’s that simple! 

Recipe Recommendation: Pumpkin pizza topped with garlic-roasted Brussel sprouts

#2 Carrots

Carrots are a delicious root vegetable that can brighten up any winter dish like hearty soups and stews. Carrots are also a good source of Vitamin C, which we could all use more of during the cold winter months. Enjoy them on their own with your favorite dip or hummus, a top your lunchtime salad, in a savory soup or baked into a breakfast muffin.

 #3 Clementines

Clementines are a citrus fruit that bring a bright burst of flavor to your day, which can be especially enjoyable during the cold, dark winter months. Enjoy clementine slices in a glass of water or paired with a handful of our almond flour crackers for a  convenient snack. Small and compact, clementines can easily be packed in your bag so you are never left hungry. 

Recipe Recommendation: Harvest Baked Brie



 

#4 Collard Greens

Collard greens are a member of the cabbage family and grow as a loose bouquet instead of a tight head like cabbage plants. Traditionally slow cooked with proteins like, pork, collard greens can be prepared just like its cabbage counterpart.

Recipe Recommendation: Turkey Tomato Collard Green Wraps

#5 Dates

Dates could be considered Mother Nature’s candy as they are a naturally sweet treat. Dates can be enjoyed on their own or slather them in a spoonful of your favorite nut butter for a sweet and savory midday snack.

Recipe Recommendation: Peanut Butter Banoffee Parfaits



 

#6 Kale

Also a member of the cabbage family, kale is a dark leafy green that is a cruciferous vegetable. Enjoy kale in your morning smoothie, mixed in with your afternoon salad greens or sauteed as a delicious dinner side dish.

Recipe Recommendations:Cauliflower Beet and Kale Flatbread

 

#7 Pears

Pears are a delicious fruit that can be enjoyed on the go, just like clementines and oranges. Tip: When picking out the perfect pear, check the neck of the stem by gentling pressing it with your thumb. When the neck of the pear yields to the pressure of your thumb it’s ripe and ready to eat!

Recipe Recommendations: Caramelized Pear Upside Down Cake or Mushroom and Chestnut Stuffing.

 

#8 Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the perfect produce option if you prefer something sweet with your meal. Sweet potatoes pair well with roasted Brussel sprouts and can even be enjoyed for a snack with a spoonful (or two) of nut butter and a dash of cinnamon. Yum!

Recipe Recommendations: Sweet Potato Collagen Waffles or Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Avocado Bites or Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Stay bright through the winter months with these eight winter fruits and vegetables and be sure to tag us @SimpleMills so we can see how you enjoy winter produce!