As the weather cools, it’s important to give your body the nutrients it needs to fight illness and stay healthy. Plus, who can resist a warm meal on a chilly night?

The combination of these autumn vegetables are staples of healthy comfort food.

Benefits of sweet potatoes

  • Contain antioxidants, which protect your body from free radicals that can damage DNA and trigger inflammation.
  • Sweet potatoes contain soluble fiber that absorbs water and softens stool. They also contain insoluble fibers that keep the lining of the intestines healthy and strong.
  • Anthocyanins, found in purple sweet potatoes, have been scientifically found to slow the growth of certain types of cancer cells. They are also believed to protect the brain by reducing inflammation.
  • Orange sweet potatoes are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is vital to keeping the immune system functioning optimally.

Benefits of mushrooms

  • Rich in fiber, protein and antioxidants
  • Excellent source of zinc, potassium, copper, selenium, copper, thiamin, magnesium, and phosphorous
  • May help lower blood pressure, boost the immune system and aid in weight loss
  • May help ease the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, heart disease, cancer and diabetes

Benefits of kale

  • Rich in vitamins A, K, C, B6, manganese, calcium, copper, potassium and magnesium
  • Contains powerful antioxidants that help protect the heart, lower blood pressure, and it’s anti-inflammatory, antivirual and anti-cancer
  • Can help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease and protect the eyes

Sweet Potato, Mushroom and Kale Saute

Ingredients:

  • 1 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, cleaned and chopped
  • 3 cups kale, roughly chopped
  • 4 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp. chipotle pepper powder, optional (depending on how spicy you like it)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • In a heavy bottom skillet, heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil. Add onions and saute until translucent. Add garlic and sweet potatoes. Saute until sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown, about 8 minutes.
  • Add remaining olive oil, kale and mushrooms. Saute until kale is tender and covered (about 5 minutes).
  • Add salt, pepper and your favorite seasoning. Serve as a side dish or over brown rice for a more hearty meal.