While the temperatures are still warm outside, the cool fall breezes will soon be blowing. Along with the dropping temperatures and colorful foliage, the fall season also brings a harvest of healthy foods like Michigan Beans, apples, squash and pumpkins to use in tasty seasonal dishes like chili, soups, casseroles and savory snacks. As you start planning for fall festivities, tailgate parties and simple, nourishing family meals, we’ve got you covered with delicious recipes that help you savor the season. So, whether you are apple picking, pumpkin carving or leaf stomping, grab your sweater and add the healthy benefits of Michigan Beans and fall produce to your meals. Here’s some tasty new recipes and menu ideas to pair with your favorite fall traditions.
Tailgating Parties – Tailgate parties may look different around the country, but gathering with friends and family to enjoy food before or during a game is universal! In a 2022 study by Hormel, the best food choices were portable, easy to cook and have a long shelf-life outside of refrigeration. As you plan out your tailgate menu and get ready to cheer on your favorite team, Michigan Beans has you covered with some amazing new recipes that are sure to be winners.
Baked Buffalo Bean Dip – There’s no chicken needed in this easy vegetarian buffalo dip. The protein-packed white beans, cheeses and buffalo sauce are combined and baked to perfection. Simply serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips, celery or carrots.
Bean, Heart of Palm & Avocado Salad Jars – These beautiful, jarred salads are tangy, fresh and flavorful! To eat, simply dump the delicious contents of the jar onto individual plates and enjoy.
Fall Family Dinners – Many individuals enjoy “shopping with the seasons” by buying fruits and vegetables when they grow best. Not only is this practice more sustainable for the environment, but it can also be more sustainable for grocery budgets and healthy living. Michigan Beans are harvested in September and so are many fall favorites like winter squash and pumpkins. Pair nutrient-rich seasonal produce items together in tasty plant-forward recipes to savor the season and pump up the nutrition in family meals. These tasty recipes will be popular with the whole family:
White Bean, Kale & Roasted Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese – This perfect comfort food is sure to become a new family favorite.
Sweet Potato, Black Bean Burritos – Sweet potatoes and Michigan Black Beans make a perfect combination in these delicious burritos. Serve these with our simple avocado crema and a bit of hot sauce if desired.
After School Snacking – Kids will be headed back to school soon for a full day of learning and growing and when they come home, they are usually “starving!” Offer some delicious snacks made with Michigan Beans to keep kids energized while filling nutrition gaps. Beans are loaded with needed nutrients like protein, fiber, B-vitamins, iron, folate, calcium, potassium and zinc and may promote healthy brain and heart function. In addition to being healthy, beans are extremely versatile and can be used to create a variety of kid-friendly snacks like dips, wraps, quesadillas and more. Check out these 2 amazing new recipes that kids of all ages will love!
White Bean Cookie Dough Dip – Made with Michigan Cannellini Beans and Almond Butter
Blueberry Bean Muffins – Use frozen or fresh berries for these muffins which can also be made into bread.
Halloween Celebrations – In 2022, 69% of Americans said they planned to take part in Halloween celebrations according to National Retail Federation data. If you’re planning a celebration, we have some nourishing tasty additions for your menu.
Turkey, Pumpkin & Bean Chili – Michigan red and black beans combine with pumpkin in this tasty, hearty chili that’s full of good-for-you fiber and vitamin A. Guests can personalize their portion with toppings like avocado, cheese, cilantro or Greek yogurt.
Michigan Black Bean Brownies – No tricks, only moist, chocolate brownie treats here! Goblins of all ages will love these and probably won’t guess what the secret ingredient is.
