The EastCoaster

By: Brianna Powers

1.Apple Crisp with Oat Topping:

(starting with dessert first since dessert is the best)

Nothing says fall like a warm apple crisp straight from the oven. This recipe balances the tartness of apples with a crunchy/nutty oat topping that is both comforting and versatile.

Ingredients

For the Topping:
● ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
● ½ cup rolled oats (or gluten-free oats)
● 1/3 cup brown sugar
● 1/3 cup chopped raw almonds, pecans, or walnuts (optional)
● ½ teaspoon cinnamon
● ¼ teaspoon salt
● 4 tablespoons cold butter (or olive oil/coconut oil)
● 2 tablespoons maple syrup

For the Filling:
● 6 medium apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Granny Smith), peeled and cut into chunks
● 1 tablespoon lemon juice
● 1/3 cup brown sugar
● 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
● 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
● ½ teaspoon ground ginger
● ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, nuts (if using),
   cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture is
   crumbly. Stir in maple syrup. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling: Toss apple chunks with lemon juice, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon,
   ginger, and salt until evenly coated.
3. Assemble & Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour the apple mixture into an 8-inch square
   greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the oat topping over the apples. Bake
   for 40-50 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling bubbles.
4. Serve

2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing:

This hearty yet healthy salad makes for a perfect fall lunch, combining roasted seasonal
vegetables, crunchy pecans, and creamy goat cheese with a tangy maple Dijon dressing.

Ingredients
● 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
● 2 tablespoons olive oil
● Salt and pepper to taste
● 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, kale)
● ½ cup pecans, toasted
● ½ cup dried cranberries
● ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese (or vegan alternative)

For the Dressing:
● 3 tablespoons olive oil
● 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
● 1 tablespoon maple syrup
● 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
● Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt,
   and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until
   tender and caramelized.
2. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon
   mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted squash, pecans,
   cranberries, and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve

3. Pumpkin Sage Risotto:

Pumpkin and sage come together in this creamy risotto that is ideal for fall evenings. This dish is both impressive and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

● 1 cup Arborio rice
● 1 tablespoon olive oil
● 1 small onion, finely chopped
● 2 garlic cloves, minced
● ½ cup dry white wine (optional; can substitute with more stock)
● 4 cups vegetable stock, warmed
● 1 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
● 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried sage)
● ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegans)
● Salt and pepper to taste
● 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic,
   sautéing until soft and translucent.
2. Toast Rice: Stir in Arborio rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Add Wine: If using wine, pour it in and cook until mostly evaporated.
4. Cook the Risotto: Gradually add warm stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly.
   Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue until rice is tender and
   creamy (about 20 minutes).
5. Add Pumpkin & Sage: Stir in pumpkin purée and sage. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then stir
   in Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve

Wrap up the season with flavor! Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy meal for one, these dishes will bring the flavors of autumn to life in your kitchen. Happy cooking!