11 Light & Nourishing Fall Dinner Recipes

light and nourishing fall recipes

Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad

nutritious roasted vegetable salad

Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for a cozy fall dinner. This hearty salad combines the earthy flavors of roasted seasonal vegetables with the protein-packed goodness of quinoa, making it a filling option that can serve as a side or a main dish. It’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, ensuring you’ll feel great after enjoying it.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Bell peppers (varied colors) 2, diced
Zucchini 1, sliced
Carrot 1, diced
Red onion 1, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley ¼ cup, chopped
Feta cheese (optional) ½ cup, crumbled

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, cook quinoa in water according to package instructions, then set aside.
  3. On a baking sheet, toss the diced bell peppers, zucchini, carrot, red onion, and minced garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables, fresh parsley, and crumbled feta cheese if using. Toss well to incorporate.
  5. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm or at room temperature.
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Butternut Squash Soup With Sage

creamy roasted squash soup

Butternut Squash Soup with Sage is a comforting and creamy dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This velvety soup features the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash combined with aromatic sage, making it an ideal starter or light meal. It is both warming and nutritious, providing a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 2 lbs, peeled and cubed
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Fresh sage leaves 6-8, chopped
Heavy cream ½ cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
  3. Add the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, and chopped sage to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
  4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
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Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken With Brussels Sprouts

lemon herb grilled chicken dinner

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken with Brussels Sprouts is a flavorful and healthy dish that showcases the vibrant taste of fall. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon-herb mixture, then grilled to perfection, while Brussels sprouts are roasted until crispy and caramelized. It’s a satisfying meal ideal for a cozy fall dinner, bringing together protein and seasonal vegetables in a delightful way.

Ingredients Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 (about 1.5 lbs)
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Fresh lemon juice ¼ cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Dried oregano 1 teaspoon
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Brussels sprouts 1 lb, trimmed and halved

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
  3. While the chicken is grilling, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
  4. Slice the grilled chicken and serve alongside the roasted Brussels sprouts. Enjoy your delicious fall dinner!
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Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Acorn Squash

stuffed acorn squash delight

Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful vegetarian dish that captures the essence of fall with its rich flavors and hearty textures. The natural sweetness of the acorn squash pairs beautifully with a savory filling of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and cheese, creating a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh spinach 4 cups (packed)
Mushrooms (sliced) 1 cup
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Cream cheese 4 ounces
Grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup
Salt and pepper To taste
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Breadcrumbs ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and brush the insides with olive oil. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and mushrooms; sauté until mushrooms are tender. Mix in the spinach and cook until wilted. Add cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring until combined.
  3. Once the squash is done roasting, fill each half with the spinach and mushroom mixture, topping with breadcrumbs. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the filling is heated through and breadcrumbs are golden.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Acorn Squash!
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Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry With Seasonal Vegetables

flavorful cauliflower rice stir fry

Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Seasonal Vegetables is a nutritious and vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This gluten-free and low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice is packed with colorful seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, all sautéed together with cauliflower rice for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower 1 large (about 4 cups riced)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Broccoli (chopped) 1 cup
Carrot (julienned) 1 medium
Snow peas (trimmed) 1 cup
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Soy sauce or tamari 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste
Green onions (sliced) 2 (for garnish)
Sesame seeds 1 tablespoon (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Begin by ricing the cauliflower using a food processor or grater until it resembles grains of rice.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the diced bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot; stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until just tender.
  4. Add the riced cauliflower and snow peas to the mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Drizzle with soy sauce or tamari, season with salt and pepper, and mix well. Cook for another minute.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if using, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Seasonal Vegetables!
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Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad

autumn inspired spinach salad recipe

Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad is a delightful and invigorating dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall. This vibrant salad combines the crispness of fresh spinach with sweet apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and a zesty dressing. It’s a great choice for a light dinner or as a side dish for any autumn meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 6 cups
Apples (sliced) 2 medium
Walnuts (chopped) 1/2 cup
Red onion (thinly sliced) 1/4 cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced apples, chopped walnuts, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately. Enjoy your Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad!
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Zucchini Noodles With Tomato and Basil

zucchini noodles with tomatoes

Zucchini Noodles with Tomato and Basil is a fresh, healthy, and vibrant dish that highlights the flavors of fall. This light and satisfying meal is perfect for those looking to enjoy a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta while benefiting from the abundant harvest of zucchinis and tomatoes during this season. The fragrant basil adds a delightful aroma that brings together the wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients Quantity
Zucchini 4 medium
Fresh tomatoes (diced) 2 cups
Fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt and pepper To taste
Parmesan cheese (optional) 1/4 cup grated

Cooking Steps:

  1. Use a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles and set them aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
  3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until softened, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. Stir in the zucchini noodles and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender, mixing in fresh basil.
  5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Zucchini Noodles with Tomato and Basil!
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Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

hearty turkey sweet potato skillet

Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and nutritious one-pan dish that brings together tender ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and an array of spices to create a warm and comforting meal. This skillet is perfect for fall, showcasing the rich flavors of the season while providing a balance of protein and complex carbohydrates.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground turkey 1 lb
Sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed) 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Spinach 2 cups
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  2. Stir in ground turkey, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Add cubed sweet potatoes, bell pepper, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.
  4. Fold in spinach and cook until wilted.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy your Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet!
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Chickpea and Pumpkin Curry

nutritious fall chickpea curry

Chickpea and Pumpkin Curry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall. This vegetarian curry is packed with nutritious chickpeas and pumpkin, enriched with spices that warm the soul. It’s a wholesome meal that is both comforting and satisfying, ideal for a cozy dinner while enjoying the autumn weather.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Ginger (grated) 1 tablespoon
Canned chickpeas (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Coconut milk 1 can (13.5 oz)
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Turmeric 1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper To taste
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh spinach (optional) 2 cups
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and softened.
  2. Stir in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  3. Add chickpeas, pumpkin puree, coconut milk, salt, and pepper; stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and thickened.
  5. If using, fold in fresh spinach until wilted, then garnish with cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Chickpea and Pumpkin Curry!
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Baked Salmon With Maple Mustard Glaze

baked salmon with glaze

Baked Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze is a delicious and wholesome dish that combines the rich flavor of salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze. This quick and easy recipe makes for a perfect fall dinner, providing both heartiness and nutrition, along with the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen. Served alongside seasonal vegetables or a light salad, it’s sure to be a favorite at your dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Salmon fillets 4 (6-ounce)
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the glaze generously over each fillet.
  4. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Baked Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze!

Lentil and Kale Stew

hearty lentil kale stew

Lentil and Kale Stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for cozy fall evenings. This comforting stew brings together protein-rich lentils, the nutrient-dense green of kale, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful broth. Ideal for vegans and meat-eaters alike, this wholesome dish warms you from the inside out and is great for meal prep.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Carrots (diced) 2 large
Celery (diced) 2 stalks
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Dried green or brown lentils 1 cup
Kale (stems removed, chopped) 4 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 ounces)
Bay leaves 2
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cook until softened about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add vegetable broth, lentils, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  4. Stir in the chopped kale and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Remove bay leaves. For added brightness, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the stew before serving. Enjoy your Lentil and Kale Stew!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.