Celebrating National Apple Day and the Month of Orchard Delights

Did you know that October is celebrated as National Apple Month?

And to sweeten the deal, October 21st is designated as National Apple Day!

Make the most of this month and savor the succulent delight of a ripe apple. With a staggering array of over 2,500 apple varieties cultivated in the United States, it comes as no surprise that they are considered the most beloved fruits.

There are countless numbers of apples to choose from that can easily satisfy anyone’s preference. Whether you crave the zesty punch of a Granny Smith, the satisfying crunch of a Red Gala, or the gentle sweetness of a Golden Delicious, there’s an apple variety for everyone’s taste.

While most people have heard the old idiom “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, many people may not understand the meaning behind this. Apples are packed with a wealth of nutrients that contribute to our well-being, helping to ward off illness and maintain our health in peak condition.

APPLES

There are so many reasons to indulge in this tasty fruit, here are just a few:

Appealing: Apples are sweet, crisp, and juicy! With over 7,500 types of apples harvested around the world and 2,500 types in the United States alone, it would be hard to say you couldn’t find one or many that you loved! Apples are easy to eat because they require minimal preparation (from just washing, to cutting, dicing, and cooking) and are low in cost. They are also a part of one of America’s favorite pastime’s apple-picking! Nothing is more fun and American than that!

Phytochemicals: Apples are very high in many phytochemicals, which are natural compounds in plants that offer health benefits to the consumer. The phytochemicals in apples have antioxidant properties which help to prevent cancer and other diseases. While these compounds are in the whole fruit, many of them are found in the skin, so it’s better to NOT peel the apples before you eat them!

Protects the body: While apples may be a small fruit, they pack a big punch! The array of nutrients in apples can help to slow and prevent bone and tooth decay and loss, and protect brain function, as well as lung function. Who wouldn’t want all of this wrapped up tightly into a small, delicious treat!?

Loaded with nutrients: Apples are a good dose of vitamin C that will keep your immune system healthy and intact, while aiding the absorption of iron in your body. They are also full of antioxidants that help protect your body and reduce your risk of developing cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Energizing: Apples are a great source of carbohydrates in the diet, thus being an excellent source of energy. Once eaten, vitamins from apples are slowly released into the body, creating an awakening feeling that has proven to last longer than a cup of coffee.

Satiating: As said above, eating the apple’s skin helps provide more health benefits, but it also provides a good source of fiber. We know that fiber helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer, along with other advantages such as lowering “bad” cholesterol!

Apple-tastic Ideas

Of course, with such a great variety of apples to choose from and their versatility, it allows you to use apples in numerous ways! You can incorporate them into many dishes.

Here are 5 yummy ideas that can help you get started with including apples in your meals:

Breakfast staple: Slice up apples and mix them into your oatmeal or yogurt. You can also make a fruit salad and/or top off your waffles with a few slices!

On-the-go snack: For a quick snack, pack up slices in a plastic bag and eat as is or enjoy with a serving of peanut, nut, or almond butter of your choice! *Tip: to keep your apples from browning, squeeze on some lemon or lime juice after cutting!

Sweet desserts: Bake apple slices until golden brown and sprinkle with cinnamon. You can also make your own apple pie at home and use different types of apples of your preference. Either option will make for the perfect dessert!

Spice up your salad: Throw in some apple slices alongside mixed greens, feta cheese, and your favorite vinaigrette for a delicious light salad.

Cook with them! Now that the holidays are approaching, you can even include apples in your traditional savory dishes. Check out my recipes for Whole Grain Stuffing with Apples and Roast Chicken with Apples and Leeks. These recipes are also perfect for any day!

Don’t forget, you can never go wrong with an apple a day, so enjoy it whenever you can, whatever way you like!