11 Low-Glycemic Fall Dinners for Health

healthy autumn dinner recipes

Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

butternut squash quinoa salad

This Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad is a nutritious and vibrant dish perfect for fall dinners. Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients, it’s low on the glycemic index while being hearty and satisfying. The combination of roasted butternut squash, fluffy quinoa, and fresh greens makes it a delightful meal or side dish that warms both body and soul.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium, diced
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth or water 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 1 tablespoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Baby spinach or arugula 4 cups
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup, crumbled
Chopped walnuts or pecans 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
  3. Meanwhile, rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth or water according to package instructions (usually 15 minutes).
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  5. Once the butternut squash and quinoa are done, let them cool slightly, then combine them in the bowl with the dressing, adding spinach, cranberries, feta, and nuts.
  6. Toss everything gently, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
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Spiced Lentil and Pumpkin Stew

hearty lentil pumpkin stew

Spiced Lentil and Pumpkin Stew is a comforting and hearty dish that embodies the flavors of autumn. Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, this stew is not only low on the glycemic index but also packed with nutritious ingredients like lentils and pumpkin. The warming spices create a fragrant aroma, making it an ideal choice for cozy fall dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Green or brown lentils 1 cup
Pumpkin (fresh or canned) 1 1/2 cups, diced
Onion 1 medium, chopped
Carrot 1 large, diced
Celery 1 stalk, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Turmeric 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Spinach or kale (optional) 2 cups, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, turmeric, and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, pumpkin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  4. If using, stir in the chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
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Cauliflower Rice With Sautéed Greens

cauliflower rice with greens

Cauliflower Rice With Sautéed Greens is a light and nutritious dish that serves as a perfect base for a variety of protein options. This low-glycemic recipe is ideal for fall dinners, as it combines the subtle flavors of cauliflower rice with the vibrant colors and nutrients of sautéed greens like kale or Swiss chard. The result is a satisfying, savory meal that is both filling and health-conscious.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower 1 medium head, riced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Kale or Swiss chard (or other greens) 4 cups, chopped
Vegetable broth or water 1/4 cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Lemon juice (optional) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Start by ricing the cauliflower using a food processor or grater until it resembles rice grains.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the riced cauliflower and vegetable broth or water, mixing well. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
  5. Add the chopped greens to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if using.
  6. Serve warm as a delicious low-glycemic base for your favorite protein or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
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Baked Salmon With Maple Mustard Glaze

maple mustard glazed salmon

Baked Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze is a delightful and healthy dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of fall. This low-glycemic recipe combines the rich, buttery taste of salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze made from maple syrup and Dijon mustard, making it an ideal centerpiece for your dinner table. Not only is this dish packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but it also pairs wonderfully with seasonal vegetables or grains for a complete meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Salmon fillets 4 (about 6 ounces each)
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Chopped, optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and brush the maple mustard glaze generously over each fillet.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite low-glycemic sides.
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Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

hearty turkey sweet potato chili

Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for chilly fall evenings. This low-glycemic recipe combines ground turkey with sweet potatoes, black beans, and warming spices, creating a comforting meal that is both satisfying and healthy. Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground turkey 1 pound
Sweet potatoes 2 medium, diced
Black beans 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
Onion 1 large, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1 medium, chopped
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 ounces)
Chicken broth 2 cups
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Chopped, optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and ground turkey to the pot, cooking until the turkey is browned and fully cooked.
  3. Stir in diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your wholesome fall dinner!
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Stuffed Bell Peppers With Brown Rice

stuffed bell peppers recipe

Stuffed Bell Peppers With Brown Rice is a delightful and nutritious dish that makes for a perfect low-glycemic fall dinner. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of brown rice, lean ground turkey or beef, vegetables, and spices, making them a wholesome and satisfying option for a family meal or meal prep.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers 4 medium, halved and seeded
Brown rice 1 cup, uncooked
Ground turkey or beef 1 pound
Onion 1 large, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 ounces)
Spinach (fresh or frozen) 2 cups, chopped
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Shredded cheese (optional) 1 cup, for topping

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook brown rice according to package instructions; set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft.
  4. Add ground turkey or beef, cooking until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Combine the meat mixture with the cooked brown rice.
  6. Stuff each halved bell pepper with the rice mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
  7. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until peppers are tender.
  9. Enjoy your delicious and healthy stuffed bell peppers warm!
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Coconut Curry Vegetable Soup

creamy coconut curry soup

Coconut Curry Vegetable Soup is a warm and comforting dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of fall while adhering to low-glycemic principles. This delightful soup is packed with a variety of vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk, making it both nourishing and satisfying. It’s a fantastic choice for a cozy dinner or as a light lunch option.

Ingredients Quantity
Coconut milk 1 can (13.5 ounces)
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Carrots 2 medium, sliced
Bell pepper 1 medium, diced
Zucchini 1 medium, sliced
Broccoli florets 1 cup
Onion 1 large, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Fresh ginger 1-inch piece, minced
Red curry paste 2 tablespoons
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Fresh cilantro (optional) For garnish
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger until softened.
  2. Stir in the red curry paste, cooking for a minute until fragrant.
  3. Add sliced carrots and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add zucchini and broccoli florets; cook for another 5-7 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
  6. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Coconut Curry Vegetable Soup!
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Zucchini Noodles With Pesto and Grilled Chicken

zucchini noodles with grilled chicken

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken is a delicious and healthy low-glycemic dinner choice that celebrates the flavors of fall. This dish features spiralized zucchini that serves as a gluten-free pasta alternative, topped with fresh basil pesto and succulent grilled chicken. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal meal for those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels while enjoying a flavorful feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Zucchini 4 medium
Grilled chicken breast 2 (about 6 ounces each)
Fresh basil 2 cups, packed
Pine nuts 1/4 cup
Olive oil 1/3 cup
Parmesan cheese (optional) 1/4 cup, grated
Garlic 1 clove, minced
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Start by spiralizing the zucchini to create noodles and set them aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Blend until smooth to make the pesto.
  3. Grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then slice them into strips.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, lightly sauté the zucchini noodles for 1-2 minutes until just tender.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the prepared pesto until the noodles are well coated.
  6. Serve the zucchini noodles topped with sliced grilled chicken, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Enjoy your nutritious Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Apples and Pecans

savory roasted vegetable medley

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Apples and Pecans is a delightful fall side dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful. The combination of savory Brussels sprouts, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans creates a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it an ideal low-glycemic option that pairs wonderfully with any main course.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 pound
Apples (such as Honeycrisp) 2 medium, diced
Pecans 1/2 cup, chopped
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Honey (optional) 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, and toss them in olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the oven for 15 minutes.
  4. After 15 minutes, add the diced apples and chopped pecans to the baking sheet, and drizzle with honey if desired.
  5. Roast for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
  6. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme if using, and serve warm. Enjoy your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Apples and Pecans!
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Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

quick and healthy stir fry

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick and healthy fall dinner option that combines tender strips of beef with a medley of colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. This dish is low-glycemic and packed with protein and nutrients, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still being satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef sirloin or flank steak 1 pound, sliced
Bell peppers (any color) 2, sliced
Broccoli florets 2 cups
Carrot 1, sliced
Snow peas 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce (low-sodium) 3 tablespoons
Fresh garlic, minced 2 cloves
Fresh ginger, minced 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon
Water 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Green onions, chopped (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, followed by the bell peppers, broccoli, carrot, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Return the beef to the skillet and add the soy sauce, water, and cornstarch. Stir to combine and allow the sauce to thicken.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry!

Chickpea and Spinach Casserole

hearty chickpea spinach casserole

Chickpea and Spinach Casserole is a hearty and nutritious fall dinner option that brings together the rich flavors of chickpeas, fresh spinach, and a blend of spices. This low-glycemic dish is not only filling but also packs a punch with protein and vitamins, making it a perfect choice for a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients Quantity
Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) 2 cans (15 oz each)
Fresh spinach, chopped 4 cups
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Cumin powder 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup, crumbled
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
  3. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your Chickpea and Spinach Casserole!

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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.