11 Sweet and Spicy Autumn Dinner Ideas

sweet spicy autumn dinner ideas

Maple-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts

maple glazed roasted brussels sprouts

Maple-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious side dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. The combination of the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup results in a delightful balance of tastes that complements any fall-themed dinner. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also provides a warm and comforting addition to your seasonal table.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 lb (450g)
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Maple syrup 2 tbsp
Salt 1 tsp
Black pepper ½ tsp
Balsamic vinegar (optional) 1 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper, tossing until well-coated.
  4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  6. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving, if desired. Enjoy!
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Spicy Butternut Squash Soup

spicy butternut squash soup

Spicy butternut squash soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of autumn. With its creamy texture and spicy undertones, this soup is perfect for warming up on chilly evenings. Packed with vitamins and nutrients, it’s not only satisfying but also a healthy choice for your fall meals.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium (about 2 lbs)
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Onion 1 medium
Garlic 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Cumin 1 tsp
Red pepper flakes ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
Salt 1 tsp
Black pepper ½ tsp
Coconut milk 1 cup
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, brush with olive oil, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
  3. Scoop the flesh of the roasted squash into the pot along with vegetable broth, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Stir in coconut milk and heat through.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your warm bowl of spicy butternut squash soup!
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Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs

sweet and spicy chicken thighs

Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs are a deliciously sweet and spicy dish that perfectly embodies the warming flavors of autumn. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, these chicken thighs are marinated in a chipotle honey sauce that not only enhances their flavor but also keeps the meat juicy and tender. Pair them with your favorite side dishes for a heartwarming meal this fall.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) 4-6 pieces
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2-3 peppers
Honey 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Lime juice 2 tbsp
Salt 1 tsp
Black pepper 1/2 tsp
Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, honey, olive oil, garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-lock bag or bowl and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your flavorful chipotle honey chicken thighs!
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Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

sweet potato black bean tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a wholesome and vibrant vegetarian dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn. These tacos are not only packed with nutrients but also offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory tastes. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering with friends, they can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 medium
Black beans (canned, drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Ground cumin 1 tsp
Chili powder 1 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Corn tortillas 8
Avocado (sliced) 1
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional
Lime wedges For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes.
  2. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender.
  3. In a separate pan, heat the black beans over medium heat until warmed through.
  4. To assemble the tacos, warm the corn tortillas on a skillet. Then, layer roasted sweet potatoes and black beans onto each tortilla.
  5. Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos!
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Autumn Harvest Salad With Pomegranate Dressing

autumn salad with pomegranate dressing

Autumn Harvest Salad With Pomegranate Dressing is a revitalizing and colorful dish that embodies the essence of fall. This salad features a medley of seasonal ingredients, such as crisp apples, crunchy nuts, and nutrient-rich greens, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy pomegranate dressing. It’s the perfect side for your autumn dinner or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed greens (spinach, arugula) 4 cups
Apple (sliced) 1 medium
Pomegranate seeds 1/2 cup
Walnuts (chopped) 1/3 cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 3 tbsp
Pomegranate juice 1/4 cup
Honey 1 tbsp
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apple, pomegranate seeds, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, pomegranate juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of autumn in every bite!
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Cranberry-Orange Glazed Salmon

cranberry orange glazed salmon recipe

Cranberry-Orange Glazed Salmon is a delicious and festive main dish that beautifully highlights the flavors of autumn. The natural sweetness of the cranberries combined with the citrusy zing of fresh orange creates a delectable glaze that complements the rich flavor of the salmon. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a cozy dinner gathering or an elegant holiday feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Salmon fillets 4 (6 oz each)
Fresh cranberries 1 cup
Orange juice 1/2 cup
Orange zest 1 tbsp
Honey 2 tbsp
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
  3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
  4. Spoon the cranberry-orange glaze over the salmon fillets.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with additional orange zest or herbs if desired. Enjoy the festive flavors!
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Thai Pumpkin Curry

creamy thai pumpkin curry

Thai Pumpkin Curry is a warming and fragrant dish that captures the essence of autumn with its earthy squash and aromatic spices. This vibrant curry is both comforting and healthy, making it a perfect addition to your autumn dinner table. The combination of creamy coconut milk and a hint of Thai red curry paste adds depth and richness, while the fresh vegetables provide a delightful crunch.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (diced) 2 cups
Coconut milk 1 can (14 oz)
Thai red curry paste 2 tbsp
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Bell pepper (sliced) 1
Carrot (sliced) 1
Onion (chopped) 1
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Ginger (grated) 1 tsp
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until translucent.
  2. Stir in the Thai red curry paste and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced pumpkin, sliced bell pepper, and carrot to the pot, stirring to combine.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, then bring to a simmer. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
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Honey Sriracha Garlic Shrimp

sweet and spicy shrimp

Honey Sriracha Garlic Shrimp is a delightful fusion dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the spiciness of Sriracha, creating a flavorful and aromatic meal perfect for autumn evenings. This dish features succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, resulting in an exciting balance of flavors that can add excitement to your autumn dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Shrimp (peeled and deveined) 1 lb
Honey 3 tbsp
Sriracha 2 tbsp
Garlic (minced) 4 cloves
Soy sauce 2 tbsp
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Green onions (sliced) 2
Salt and pepper To taste
Sesame seeds (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, mix honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, and minced garlic to create the marinade.
  2. Toss the shrimp in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Maple Mustard Pork Chops

maple mustard pork chops

Maple Mustard Pork Chops are a deliciously festive dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of autumn. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard creates a delectable glaze that infuses the pork chops with a rich, savory flavor. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a warm apple salad, making it an ideal centerpiece for your autumn dinner gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in pork chops 4 (about 1-inch thick)
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tbsp
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Fresh thyme (chopped) 1 tbsp
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
  3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, then place them in a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Brush the maple mustard glaze over both sides of the pork chops, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  5. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
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Spiced Apple and Pear Galette

rustic autumn fruit galette

Spiced Apple and Pear Galette is a rustic and comforting dessert that beautifully showcases the flavors of autumn fruits. This free-form tart combines sweet apples and juicy pears with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner gathering, this galette can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups
Salt 1/4 tsp
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Ice water 3-4 tbsp
Apples (peeled and sliced) 2 medium
Pears (peeled and sliced) 2 medium
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Egg (beaten, for egg wash) 1
Sugar (for sprinkling) 1 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough forms. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
  3. In another bowl, combine sliced apples and pears with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
  4. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Arrange the apple and pear mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the crust over the filling, brushing with beaten egg and sprinkling sugar on top.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is tender. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Chili-Lime Roasted Cauliflower

spicy lime cauliflower side dish

Chili-Lime Roasted Cauliflower is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that brings a touch of spice to your autumn dinner table. The mildly sweet and nutty flavor of the cauliflower pairs perfectly with the zesty kick from lime juice and the heat from chili powder. This dish is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to any fall gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower (cut into florets) 1 medium head
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Chili powder 1 tsp
Ground cumin 1/2 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Black pepper 1/4 tsp
Lime juice 2 tbsp
Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through.
  5. Remove from oven, drizzle with lime juice, and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

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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.