Even though apples can be found in most grocery stores all year round, they are an iconic symbol of the fall season. Whether an apple reminds you of back-to-school, picking apples or a warm apple cider donut, come September, most of us can’t resist this crispy, crunchy fruit. There are about 2,500 varieties of apples grown in the United States, but the crabapple is the only apple native to North America.
Apples come in many shades of red, green or yellow and are used for many different culinary applications depending on their taste profile. When purchasing apples, choose firm, smooth-skinned apples with intact stems. They should smell fresh, maybe even a bit sweet, but not musty. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks, storing them away from strong-odored foods like onions or garlic.
In season: Fall
Nutrition
Can an apple a day really keep the doctor away? Maybe! Apples are packed with beneficial nutrients including fiber, vitamin C, potassium and polyphenols. They contain pectin, a prebiotic fiber, which may help promote healthy gut bacteria and are high in water content making them hydrating and filling.
Preparation
There are tons of ways to enjoy apples. They make a portable and satisfying snack, especially when paired with nut butter or cheese. They can be baked on their own or into muffins, bread or pies. Apples are delicious as a topping on oatmeal, in a salad or cooked into a creamy butter.
Given their hard, crunchy texture, apples can be a choking risk for small children. Apples are best served baked to infants to make sure they are nice and soft or served in thin slices to toddlers.
