While pumpkins get all the spotlight in October, the national food of the month is actually the apple! One medium apple has under 100 calories and packs a punch of fiber–both soluble fiber (good for managing cholesterol levels) and insoluble fiber (to help keep the pipes clean)–and even some vitamin C and potassium.

This crowd-pleasing fruit is perfect for the lunch box, a snack or even dessert–eaten by the bite or by the slice–and a new study shows kids consume more apples than any other fruit.

Let’s not stop with bites and slices–check out this month’s recipe round-up for culinary inspiration to jazz up that peck of apples!

Chickpea Apple Pecan Salad via The Healthy Family and Home

Biting into a crisp apple isn’t the only way to enjoy them raw. These fiber-rich fruits can be chopped up raw and tossed into just about anything. They add delicious crunch and diversity to salads—sweet or savory!

Unsweetened Applesauce via Veg Recipes of India

Perhaps one of the most popular outcomes for autumn’s apple harvest, applesauce allows you to enjoy the fruity flavors of fall at any time of the year thanks to canning. This recipe takes full advantage of the natural sweetness of apples and requires no added sugar!

Simple Gluten-Free Apple Crisp via Cookie and Kate

A mix-up on the traditional apple pie, this gluten-free apple crisp is whole-grain and less labor-intensive than a pie, but it will make your home smell just as delicious!

Butternut Squash Apple Soup via Jessica in the Kitchen

What better way to enjoy the versatility of apples than to pair them with another of fall’s stars in a creamy soup? This recipe sounds gourmet but is so simple to make! Coconut milk and green onion bring an ethnic flair to this autumnal dish while fresh thyme reminds us that Thanksgiving is just around the corner Bonus: no added sugar, salt or oil.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts via My Darling Vegan

One seasonal tradition vegans tend to miss out on is enjoying apple cider donuts at the apple orchard. This baked version of the typical fried treat is sure to please your palate!

Homemade Apple Cider via One Ingredient Chef

Rather than drinking store-bought cider including a long list of ingredients, try making your own from wholesome ingredients such as apples, vanilla bean, orange peel and whole cinnamon. Best of all, you control how much sugar is in it!

 

What’s your favorite way to use up your apple haul?