Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, M.Sc.FN, RD, CPT

Credit: Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Credit: Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Key Points

Aldi has plenty of affordable options for cozy fall meals and snacks.

Seasonal picks include pumpkin, butternut squash and apple-inspired flavors.

These five finds make busy fall breakfasts, snacks and dinners easier.

Fall is coming and with it cooler weather, changing leaves and cozier meals. Whether you’re a fan of classic autumnal flavors like pumpkin spice or prefer to lean into seasonal produce like squash or Brussels sprouts, there are plenty of delicious ways to celebrate fall.

And you can find many healthy, budget-friendly options at Aldi. Here are some we think you should add to your cart.

Baker’s Corner Canned PumpkinCredit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Credit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Canned pumpkin is a staple in autumnal cooking and baking. Thick and creamy, it’s a perfect way to add some natural flavor and sweetness to your dishes. Whether you bake it into your pumpkin pie or stir it into a vegetarian chili, this simple purée is an easy way to transform your dish into a fall staple. It’s also rich in nutrition, offering a convenient source of fiber, potassium and vitamin A. Plus, at just $1.99 per can, it’s a good idea to stock up on this pantry staple while you can. 

Breakfast Best Pumpkin Spice WafflesCredit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Credit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

A simple breakfast option is a must every season, but back to school and busier schedules this fall mean a quick and easy option like these Pumpkin Spice Waffles is especially nice to have on hand. Pop them into the microwave or toaster, then top them with your favorite fruit or some spiced nuts like pecans or almonds for an easy 5-minute meal. It’s a cozy breakfast that will warm you from the inside out.

Nature Valley Cinnamon Almond Butter Protein BarsCredit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Credit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

These portable bars pack a punch of flavor and protein. They have 10 grams of the nutrient per bar, all without the chalky or gritty texture. Coated in creamy almond butter and cinnamon, they’re a sweet snack that will leave you feeling energized and satiated. With 5 bars per box at just $3.89, they’re a simple grab-and-go snack that will last you all week.

Waterloo Apple Pie à la Mode Sparkling WaterCredit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Credit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

You don’t need to eat apple pie to relish in the fall flavors with these Waterloo Sparkling Waters in the Apple Pie à la Mode flavor. With a subtle spice of nutmeg and cinnamon to accompany the classic tart sweetness from the apple, these cans are like dessert on the go. With zero calories and all-natural flavors, you can turn up the coziness and keep it light simultaneously.

Simply Nature Organic Butternut SquashCredit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Credit: Aldi. Getty Images. EatingWell design.

A cornerstone of autumnal cooking is using plenty of seasonal produce, and this bag of organic butternut squash makes it that much easier. The fiber-packed winter squash also has plenty of vitamins and antioxidants like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Potassium—all of which can help support your gut, heart and immune health. Serve it alongside your favorite protein or add it to a brothy soup, as in our High-Protein Butternut Squash & Lentil Soup. Either way, this bag of frozen veg is a freezer staple that you’ll be happy to have in hand this season.

The Bottom Line

With fall right around the corner, now is the time to stock up on all of these fall must-haves from Aldi. Whether you’re in the market for a quick and easy snack like the Nature Valley Cinnamon Almond Butter Protein Bars, or a pantry staple like the Baker’s Corner Canned Pumpkin, Aldi has you covered. Make sure to add these healthy, budget-friendly options to your list for your next shopping trip.

Read the original article on EatingWell