Your herbs have been cut, washed, chopped, and frozen. You have jars of strawberry jam sitting in the basement. Your Italian tomatoes are canned and ready to be gifted to loved ones. And spaghetti sauce is simmering on the stove. Fall brings a variety of fresh, local products that are colourful, affordable, and versatile, perfect for making various recipes. Here are just a few ideas to hold you off until next summer.

1. Onion soup

Topped with sharp cheese for the grown-ups and mild cheese for the little ones, onion soup is a sure hit. Plus, it can be served as an appetizer or even as a main course.

For a unique twist, try out this recipe. It combines the tartness of green apples and the sweetness of hot apple cider, for a light, unique touch.

2. Apple crisp

There are a thousand and one ways to make apple crisp, with raspberries, strawberries, or cranberries, nuts, and toppings—not to mention the classic apple crisp. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, this apple crisp will also fill the house with irresistible aromas for hours on end.

3. Maple ham

Served with mashed potatoes and peas, this maple ham with fresh thyme aromas is an instant hit. Along with a creamy, slightly sweetened maple syrup and brown sugar glaze, it will quickly become a dinnertime favourite. 

4. Hot chocolate

As soon as colder weather sets in, hot chocolate is a favorite among young and old alike! You can of course try the classic version topped with whipped cream, or spice things up with this version, sweetened with date purée and made either with cow’s or plant-based milk. 

During the holiday season, surprise your loved ones with these homemade marshmallow or candy cane hot-chocolate-mix-in-a-jar recipes. The perfect way to show your love and appreciation!

Money-saving tip: For rich and creamy hot chocolate, use Compliments cocoa powder—a guaranteed blend of quality and savings.

5. Spaghetti sauce

Nothing beats a good homemade spaghetti sauce. You know, the fresh-off-the-stove, appetite-opening kind. This recipe is sure to surprise you, as it can be made with orange (you read that right!) or even curry for an Indian take on a classic dinner. 

6. Pumpkin cookies

This recipe is perfect for using any pumpkin leftovers that Halloween might've left behind. Soft, slightly sweet, and high in fibre, these cookies make for a healthy snack that can easily be slipped into any  lunchbox. It's a must!

7. Marshmallows

Grab a big cozy blanket to keep warm, gather around a fire or small charcoal grill and roast some marshmallows. It’s the perfect treat to bid farewell to summer.