Autumn Eats: Tasty Recipes for Your Screened Space
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the colorful foliage transforms your backyard into a seasonal wonderland, it’s the perfect time to embrace the cozy vibes of the season with some delicious autumn-inspired dishes. What better way to enjoy the season than by cooking up a storm in your screened space? Whether you have a screened-in porch or a sunroom, these recipes are perfect for enjoying the sights and smells of fall without the nuisance of pests. From comforting soups to sweet treats, here are a few tasty recipes that will bring warmth and flavor to your autumn gatherings.
1. Butternut Squash Soup
A warm bowl of soup is the epitome of fall comfort. This velvety butternut squash soup is rich, creamy, and has a subtle sweetness that’s perfect for chilly autumn days. Plus, it’s easy to make in batches, so you can have plenty on hand for yourself and your guests!
Ingredients:
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 apple, peeled and chopped (adds a hint of sweetness), 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup coconut milk (for extra creaminess), 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste, olive oil
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
Add the butternut squash, apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well and cook for a few minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the squash is tender (about 20 minutes).
Blend the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds.
2. Apple Crisp
Nothing says autumn quite like the combination of fresh apples and cinnamon. This easy apple crisp is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to highlight fall’s best fruit.
Ingredients:
5-6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 3/4 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt, vanilla ice cream (optional, but highly recommended)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the apple slices with lemon juice and place them in a greased 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apples.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Autumn Salad with Roasted Root Vegetables
For something a little lighter but still full of seasonal flavors, this autumn salad featuring roasted root vegetables is a great option. It’s perfect for pairing with the warmth of your soup or enjoying on its own as a vibrant side dish.
Ingredients:
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced, 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed, 1 parsnip, peeled and sliced, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or kale), 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese, 1/4 cup toasted pecans, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the carrots, sweet potato, and parsnip with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring once, until the vegetables are tender and golden brown.
In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with mixed greens.
Top with goat cheese, toasted pecans, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
Toss gently and serve immediately, or chill for later.
4. Pumpkin Spice Latte
No fall season is complete without a cozy cup of pumpkin spice latte. Skip the coffee shop lines and whip up this homemade version in your own screened-in retreat!
Ingredients:
1 cup brewed coffee or espresso, 1/2 cup milk (or your favorite dairy-free alternative), 2 tbsp canned pumpkin puree, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, whipped cream (optional)
Directions:
In a small saucepan, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat over medium heat, whisking until the mixture is warm and frothy.
Pour the brewed coffee or espresso into a mug, then add the spiced milk mixture.
Stir in vanilla extract, top with whipped cream if desired, and sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie spice.
Sip and savor the fall flavors!
5. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Looking for a savory snack to enjoy in your screened space while you sip your pumpkin spice latte? These spicy roasted chickpeas are crispy, crunchy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a quick and easy treat.
Ingredients:
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on heat preference), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt to taste
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel.
Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Let cool slightly and serve as a crunchy snack or sprinkle over salads for added texture.
As you enjoy the beauty of autumn in your screened space, these recipes will keep you cozy, full, and satisfied. Whether you're sipping a warm pumpkin spice latte, savoring a comforting bowl of soup, or indulging in a sweet apple crisp, there’s something for every fall flavor craving. So fire up your oven, invite some friends or family over, and make your screened space the ultimate fall dining destination!