Whether you’re leaf-peeping along the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, picking apples in the orchards of Massachusetts, or cheering on the Patriots at Gillette Stadium, fall in New England is a feast for all the senses. If you live in a leaf-peeping state, I’m sure it is for you too! And if not, come visit!
Speaking of feasts, there’s nothing quite like the way autumn inspires us to gather and share meals. From potluck suppers at the local Grange Hall to tailgating at high school football games, food is at the heart of our fall traditions.
I’m reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the woodstove would be crackling away by early September, and the counters would be lined with Mason jars full of pickles and preserves. She’d be rolling out pie crust for her famous pumpkin pie, while a pot of “chowdah” simmered on the back burner. Those memories of warmth, abundance, and love are what autumn cooking is all about.
Our hope with this issue of RecipeLion Magazine is that we can share that cozy fall spirit with you, no matter where you call home. These are the dishes that fill our kitchens with mouthwatering aromas when the leaves start to turn and the geese fly south. In fact, I’ve got the Sweet Potato and Hot Italian Sausage Casserole planned for my next neighborhood potluck – it’s sure to be a hit alongside the traditional baked beans and brown bread!
You’ll find 32 irresistible harvest recipes in this edition, with something for everyone. From a Sweet Ginger Meatloaf that adds an unexpected twist to a classic comfort food, to a Green Bean Casserole that elevates this traditional side dish, to an Ultra Cozy Potato Soup that’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings. We’ve also included some delightful desserts like Spiced Poached Pears that capture the essence of fall, and a rich, moist Carrot Cake that’s sure to become a family favorite. These dishes are ideal for helping you embrace the flavors of the season, whether you’re hosting a harvest dinner or simply looking to add some warmth to your weeknight meals.
Here are a few more highlights ahead in our RecipeLion Magazine Fall 2024 issue:
Savor the Flavors of 14 Root Delicacies
We love a good potato dish as much as anyone, but there are so many more possibilities when it comes to root vegetables. From sweet potatoes to radishes and everything in between, if it grows underground, we’ve found a delicious way to prepare it!
- Savory Sweet Potato Burger: This Savory Sweet Potato Burger recipe is a vegetarian delight that even meat-lovers will enjoy. It combines mashed sweet potatoes with oats, and a blend of spices, creating a hearty and flavorful patty that’s perfect for cool autumn evenings.
- Baked Brown Butter Radishes: Prepare to see radishes in a whole new light with this Baked Brown Butter Radishes recipe. The peppery bite of radishes is mellowed and enhanced by roasting them in nutty brown butter, resulting in a side dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
- Sweet Potato and Hot Italian Sausage Casserole: This Sweet Potato and Hot Italian Sausage Casserole is the ultimate one-dish comfort food for fall. It marries the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the spicy kick of Italian sausage, all bound together in a creamy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
10 Recipes From the 3 Sisters: Corn, Beans, and Squash
The garden might be winding down, but it’s still offering up some of its best produce. We’re celebrating the Native American tradition of the “Three Sisters” – corn, beans, and squash – with recipes that showcase these complementary crops. From soups to stir-fries, we’ve got creative ways to enjoy this trio of fall favorites.
- Fresh Sweet Corn Gazpacho: This Fresh Sweet Corn Gazpacho is a delightful bridge between summer and fall. It combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the acidity of yellow tomatoes and complexity of yellow bell peppers, creating a refreshing soup that’s perfect for those warm early autumn days.
- Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry: Our Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is a quick and easy weeknight meal that brings a bright pop of flavor and color to your table. The crisp green beans pair perfectly with tender chicken and a savory sauce, making for a satisfying and nutritious dinner.
- Roasted Winter Squash Soup: As the days grow shorter, warm up with our Roasted Winter Squash Soup. This velvety soup combines the sweetness of roasted squash with aromatic spices, creating a bowl of pure comfort that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
8 Cozy Confections
Cool autumn days call for warm, comforting desserts. Whether baked, simmered, or chilled, these sweet treats capture the essence of fall flavors.
- Cinnamon Baked Apples: Our Cinnamon Baked Apples are like fall in a dish. Fresh apples are cored and filled with a mixture of walnuts or oats, brown sugar, and warm spices, then baked until tender. It’s a healthier alternative to apple pie that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
- Dark Chocolate Ginger Hearts: These Dark Chocolate Ginger Hearts offer a sophisticated twist on fall flavors. The warmth of ginger pairs beautifully with rich dark chocolate, creating a treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or as an after-dinner indulgence.
- Glazed Cranberry Scones: Start your autumn mornings right with our Glazed Cranberry Scones. Studded with tart cranberries and topped with a sweet glaze, these scones are the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
I hope you enjoy our Fall 2024 issue and get to try some exciting and fun new fall recipes!
Happy cooking, happy autumn—and happy eating!
Christy Page
Editor & Publisher
P.S. Please enjoy this issue of RecipeLion Magazine, and let me know what you think about it by commenting below with your feedback! Your input is valuable to us and can help us make improvements.