As the leaves start to change color and it starts to get cooler in Berkeley, it’s time to embrace the flavors of autumn. Fall is a season that requires us to get cozy in our sweaters, sip on warm beverages and savor the comforting tastes of fall. In this article, we’ll explore some delicious fall recipes that I can’t wait to try this semester, including fall soups, a pumpkin loaf and more.

Soups

Fall wouldn’t be complete without a hearty soup to warm our souls. This semester, I’m eager to make a creamy butternut squash soup. Roasted butternut squash blended with aromatic spices and a touch of cream creates a velvety, satisfying soup that’s perfect for those chilly evenings. 

Harvest salad

Amidst all the indulgent fall flavors, it’s important to include some lighter options in your semester’s menu. A harvest salad loaded with fresh greens, roasted root vegetables, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese is a delightful way to do just that. Top it with a homemade apple cider vinaigrette for that extra fall flair.

Sweet potato chickpea bowl

As we dive deeper into the flavors of fall, it’s essential to explore dishes that not only warm the heart, but also nourish the body. One of my favorite fall items on the menu this semester is the sweet potato chickpea bowl. This wholesome and satisfying meal combines roasted sweet potatoes, spiced chickpeas, rice, spinach and a medley of seasonal vegetables. Drizzled with a tahini dressing and sprinkled with toasted pumpkin seeds, it’s a bowl of pure autumn goodness that provides both comfort and nutrition.

Pumpkin ravioli with sage brown butter sauce

Elevate your pasta game with Trader Joe’s honey-roasted pumpkin ravioli. Served with a sage-infused brown butter sauce, it’s a dish that exudes fall sophistication.

Pumpkin loaf

Now, let’s talk sweet stuff. Pumpkin bread is the classic fall treat, but this semester, I’m taking it to the next level with a pumpkin-chocolate chip loaf. This flavorful loaf is perfect for breakfast, dessert or as an anytime snack.

Pumpkin pancakes 

When the weekend rolls around and the crisp morning air beckons, I can’t resist whipping up a batch of pumpkin pancakes. Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Pancake and Waffle Mix makes the process effortless, infusing the classic pancake with the warm and inviting flavors of fall. These fluffy pancakes, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, are a delightful way to start any autumn day.

Fall in Berkeley might just be my favorite season and these recipes make it even more fun to get into the autumn spirit. So, whether you’re a culinary pro or just starting your cooking journey, these fall favorites promise a delicious way to celebrate this season.