With the seasons changing and temperatures finally dropping off a bit in Atlanta, it’s time to adjust our lifestyles a bit. For different people, that means different things. For some of us, cooler weather means football and back to school. For others, it’s a joyous time to break out all our favorite sweaters and boots.

For everyone though, autumnal weather signifies a time to return to some of our favorite flavors, spices and seasonal foods. Fall’s bounty brings plenty of opportunity for healthy choices and new go-to’s. Here are some of the best options for a festive, healthful fall-time menu.

Beets

Packed with nutrients, beets are a delicious and colorful way to add a rainbow of flavor to your fall dishes. While most of us are familiar with the purple-red beets that stain our hands and cutting boards, you can also find beets that are golden, white, and more.

Beets are full of good things for you. Feeling like you need an energy boost? The dietary nitrates in beets allow your mitochondria (energy for your cells) to work more efficiently. They are great for a avid athlete as well as an occasional walker. Beets help inflammation, thus promoting healthy organs and tissue. They are also a rich source of fiber that supports digestive health.

For the best flavor and to get the most nutrients out of your beets, roast them. With various spices and herbs, you can really bring out that yummy flavor!

Pumpkins

Pumpkins might be fall’s most iconic food staple, thanks to both Halloween and the abundance of pumpkin-spice flavored everything packing our store shelves this time of year. Just the look of a pumpkin can make you feel like fall, but they’re also very good for you!

Pumpkins are technically a squash and they’re an incredible source of alpha- and beta-carotenes, which are powerful antioxidants. Those help with your eye health, vision, and cell growth. A natural anti-inflammatory, alpha- and beta-carotenes, have been proven to help with preventing cardiovascular disease.

Don’t ignore the seeds! Pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein and alpha-linolenic acid, which helps prevent further cardiovascular issues. Roast them for a savory snack!

Apples

Apple picking is one of the most famous fall activities for good reason. Not only is it fun, but apples are famously good for you. While an apple a day might not always keep the doctor away, apples can go a long way towards keeping us happy and healthy!

Apples are a wonderful, yummy source of antioxidants, which are beneficial for plethora reasons. Antioxidants reduce risk of infection, fight inflammation, and slow aging effects.

Apples are also filled with water, which means you’re hydrating while you eat them. Apples are a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and weight management.

Apples are awesome raw and on their own, but you can also chop them up and roast them with your veggies to add a little sweetness to any dish.

Explore the many varieties of fall fruits and vegetables. Check out your local farmer’s market for the freshest options.