Following Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones Diet doesn’t have to be restrictive or repetitive. While the approved foods are intended to help increase wellness and longevity, they happen to be quite tasty too.

Below are five new Blue Zones recipes for you to try when the weather cools and you’re looking for something filling and healthy to eat.

 

1. Autumn Quinoa Salad

Whole grains, which are packed with protein, fiber and essential amino acids, are one of the best Blue Zones foods.

 

This quinoa salad combines the grains with dark kidney beans, roasted peanuts, cranberries and savory spices to create a delicious and hearty dish that can be eaten alone or as a side. Find the full recipe here.

 

2. Carrot Spice Muffins

 

Spices like cinnamon, clove and nutmeg are quintessential fall ingredients. If you want a Blue Zones-friendly fall treat, try these spiced carrot muffins. They’re lightly sweet and reminiscent of carrot cake or pumpkin pie, but they pack extra nutrients for your Blue Zones lifestyle.

 

Read the recipe here.

 

3. Savory Oatmeal

 

Oatmeal can be a sweet, indulgent treat on a cold morning, but it’s also a fantastic savory breakfast as well. This take on a traditional meal combines beets, salsa, nutritional yeast, pepitas and avocado alongside red pepper, paprika and chopped greens to create a spicy, healthy and filling breakfast.

 

You can find swap ideas and cooking instructions via the Blue Zones website.

 

4. Spiced Cauliflower Soup

 

This soup has a creamy, silky coconut milk base, and it includes a delicious blend of garlic and spices that gives it a fantastic burst of flavour.

 

You can find the full recipe here.

 

5. Cosy Apple Butter

 

While the Blue Zones diet recommends limiting processed sugars, making your own apple butter is a perfect way to enjoy this indulgent fall treat. Choose naturally sweet and juicy apples like Fuji or honeycrisp, and add a bit of agave, maple syrup or molasses if you need additional sweetener.

 

The quick and simple recipe can be found courtesy of the Blue Zones website.

 

Enjoy!