A friend once told me “you’re very seasonal!”. Initially perplexed by the note, I soon became captivated by its accurate portrayal. While I think that in the grand scheme of things I look for a well-crafted routine in life, which gives me a sense of security, stability and structure; every now and then, I pursue renewal and stimulation. Mother Nature gives me a helping hand by providing the ultimate rejuvenation: Seasons!

So Yes! I am very seasonal in the sense that I love living every season to the fullest: I wear the season, eat the season, and connect with nature through each season’s unique richness. Back in my hometown, autumn was the joy of petrichor after the first rain, the smell of my new schoolbooks, the sight of wheat harvest and bulgur production and the savor of green mandarin. Since I moved to North America, with every fall I look forward to my yearly apple picking, getting lost in picturesque foliage sceneries and savoring the season’s richest tastes. Eating local in-season produce is the best way to really benefit from the freshness, deliciousness and nutritional content of vegetables and fruits while supporting sustainable agriculture. Here are my autumn superfood picks from around the world. Choose a variety from this list to get your daily intake of vegetables and fruits. The best way to get what’s in season in your local area from the following list is to head to your local farmer market and see what treasures you can fill your basket with.

Top: Nothing better than the comfort of a smooth pumpkin soup to adjust to the crisp cool air
Bottom: Mix your autumn produce in this delicious medley in-season salad! (Ingredients: any green leafy vegetable, roasted apple, roasted chestnuts, grapes, cranberries, baked sweet potatoes, feta cheese)

Bring the colors home
Top right: autumn wreath
Top left: coffee table decoration
Bottom left: flower arrangement
Bottom right: seasonal Baccarat table set-up

Apple & Pumpkin picking in the Hudson Valley, NY