1. Pumpkin (let’s get this one out in the open first)

Pumpkin butter pecan gingersnap rolls by Anthony Wan

We paint them, we carve them and we eat them. You can pretty much make a zillion recipes using this plump friend of ours.

Desserts & Breakfasts:

Meals & Snacks:

2. Squash

Cheesy broccoli spaghetti squash boat by Mary Alex England

You can do a lot with squash, like substitute spaghetti squash for spaghetti for a healthier alternative (and because spaghetti squash is just awesome).

3. Soup (any kind, really)

Photo by Krista Stucchio

Fall is the perfect time to start diving into your favorite soups. The soups below are super easy to make and store in the freezer to last all fall.

4. Carrots

Rainbow roasted carrots by Elizabeth Tadie

Better to see with, my dear. Carrots hold vitamins that improve eye health and they are most delicious and best grown in the fall.

5. Apples

Apple pie cup by Susanna Tuan

If you’ve never gone apple picking, now is the time to do it. Round up your crew, pick the juiciest ones and try some of these delicious recipes. (If you need more convincing, here are 5 Reasons to Go Apple Picking).

Desserts & Snacks:

Savory Dishes:

6. Sweet Potatoes

Photo by Rachel Cali and Sarah Cali

Mash ’em. Fry ’em. Bake ’em. Even add sugar to craft up something sweet.

7. Brussels Sprouts

Photo by Kelda Baljon

I personally think these are balls of green Gods, but many people despise them. Here’s a trick…cook them with bacon.

8. Mashed Potatoes

Photo by Bernard Wen

What are you eating alongside your turkey and stuffing?

9. Cauliflower

Photo by Christine Chang

If you’re looking for a little less starch and a little more veggie, cauliflower is a great option.

10. Pears

Photo by Alex Tom

So there are like, over 3,000 types of pears in the world. Seriously. Why not try them all?

11. Artichokes

They may look a little funny, but they taste delicious if you’ve got a great recipe.

12. Colored Bell Peppers

Red pepper and pesto grilled cheese by Libby Perold

You can throw peppers in any meal. Besides dinner, they’re great in a breakfast omelet and the perfect raw snack with some dip.

13. Mushrooms

Photo by Devon Carlson

Add them to your breakfast, stuff them with crab meat or sauté them with some onions and peppers. Delish.

14. Figs

Ricotta fig crostinis by Julia Maguire

What the fig? You’ve probably had these guys in a Fig Newton, but it’s time to step up your fig game.