Everyone is talking about pumpkin like it’s the only worthy fall vegetable. Au contraire! Here are seven vegetables in season – right now! – that we should all appreciate more.

Summer is a delight and all, but I am far more in love with fall and winter vegetables than I am warm-weather season ones. Fall vegetables feel denser, more satiating, and more diverse. And if you thrive on a plant-based diet like me, the bulkier vegetables are the ones that carry you through life a little bit easier.

Meanwhile, there is more to fall’s bounty than pumpkin and other squash types. Here are seven other seasonal vegetables you should indulge in for their nutrition, their deliciousness, and, well, their availability!

7 Fall Vegetables You Should Be Eating

1. Beetroot

A great source of folate, manganese, potassium, and copper, beetroot contains only 43 calories per 100 grams as well as 2.8 grams of fiber, 1.6 grams of protein, and 8% of the RDA of vitamin C in the same serving. Beetroot is particularly known for its blood-cleansing abilities and has shown to acutely improve running performance due to its nitrate content.

Enjoy beetroot in this baked rosemary beet chips recipe with vegan mayonnaise or as part of this vegan beetroot barley burger!

2. Green Beans

Green beans are a good source of protein, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and copper. In 10, four-inch long beans, there are 17 calories, 2 grams of dietary fiber, 1 gram of protein, and 15% of the RDA of vitamin C. One cup of green beans provides 10% of the RDA of folic acid and 6% of the RDA of iron, making the young green pods helpful in promoting fertility and combating depression. Green beans also protect the heart.

Add greens beans to your next salad, like to this cold pasta salad recipe with green beans, peppers, and feta cheese.

3. Broccoli

Broccoli is rich in pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin E, manganese, phosphorus, choline, vitamin B1, vitamin A, and copper. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, calcium, iron, niacin, and selenium. One cup of chopped broccoli has only 31 calories but packs in 135% of the RDA of vitamin C, 11% of the RDA of vitamin A, 10% of the RDA of vitamin B6, and 102% of the RDA of vitamin K . Broccoli consumption can help to prevent cancer, improve bone health, improve digestion, and protect against chronic disease.

Need inspiration? Whip up this easy vegan cream of broccoli soup or this broccoli and feta frittata.

4. Brussels Sprouts

With just 38 calories per cup and a bulky texture, Brussels sprouts are able to fill you up without weighing you down. Each cup of Brussels sprouts has 3.3 grams of dietary fiber, 3 grams of protein, and 124% of the RDA of vitamin C. Brussels sprouts consumption is linked to a decreased cancer risk and improved digestive processes.

Get your fix with these recipes: zesty shaved Brussels sprouts salad; roasted Brussels sprouts with a sherry wine vinaigrette; caramelized Brussels sprouts with lemon and za’atar-spiced almonds.

5. Celeriac

Celeriac, or celery root, is one of my favorite fall vegetables. It has a light celery taste but a dense consistency that makes it a versatile substitution for any of my former meat-based needs. In one cup of celeriac, there are 66 calories, 3 grams of dietary fiber, 2.3 grams of protein, 20% of the RDA of vitamin C, and 15% of the RDA of vitamin B6. Celeriac boosts digestions, destroys free radicals (they cause cancer), helps in producing and storing energy, reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and improves bone health.

Not sure of what to do with celeriac? Add it to your next soup!

6. Turnips

Low in calories (34 per 122 grams) and high in calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, vitamin C, folate, and niacin, turnips also make for a great low-carb alternative for potatoes – one cup of turnip contains 4.2 grams of carbohydrates compared to the 13.5 grams found in an equivalent serving of potato.

A lot of people shun the turnip because of its bitter, peppery taste. However, that shouldn’t stand in your way from the possibly best low-carb dish of your life. Choose a turnip that is the size of a tennis ball for the best flavor (the larger the turnip, the more bitter it will taste). Cooking turnips then helps to shed their bitter taste. Try this vegan beet and turnip gratin with thyme and pepper or this Moroccan tagine with root vegetables and couscous.

7. Cauliflower

Cauliflower may be my favorite vegetable on this list. There is simply so much you can do with it! An entire medium head of cauliflower contains 146 calories, 12 grams of dietary fiber, 11 grams of protein, 472% of the RDA of vitamin C, 55% of the RDA of vitamin B6, and 22% of the RDA of magnesium. Cauliflower fights cancer, boosts heart health, combats inflammation, improves brain function, supports detoxification, and improves digestion. It is also jam-packed with antioxidants.

To enjoy cauliflower, roast it whole, turn it into a casserole, bake it into a cheesy grain recipe, use it as a pizza crust, or treat it like a steak.

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The post 7 Fall Vegetables You Should Be Eating More Of (Besides Pumpkin) appeared first on EcoSalon.

Bring your pumpkin spice obsession to the shower with this delicious DIY soap recipe. It smells so much like the real thing, you’ll want to eat it (but please don’t).

While I’ll pass no judgment if you choose to eat pumpkin pie in your tub, here’s a more appropriate option: lather up with this pumpkin spice DIY soap recipe. This recipe requires two simple ingredients and only 15 minutes to prepare. That’s it. So, if you like the pumpkin pie flavor in your food recipes, you’re definitely going to love basking in its essences while you cleanse. Better yet, this soap makes for a great gift to friends and family during the holiday season.

What You’ll Need

To create any soap from scratch, you can make your life a lot easier by purchasing a “soap base”, which can be found easily online. Choose one that is vegetable-derived and as pure as possible, like this glycerin melt-and-pour soap base. Chemical-derived glycerin is an alcohol and is added to many synthetic skin care products. Natural glycerin, however, is not a chemical or alcohol; it is derived from plant-based oils.

To achieve that iconic pumpkin pie flavor, you’ll need none other than pumpkin pie spice. If you already have pumpkin pie spice on hand, be sure to get a good whiff of beforehand to measure its freshness. The higher the quality the spice, the more fragrant the soap will be.

Once the glycerin soap base and the pumpkin pie spice are melted and mixed together, they are poured into soap molds, which you can purchase online or in a home and appliances store.

Pumpkin Spice Soap

Makes 1/2 pound of soap

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound vegetable glycerin soap base
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice

Directions

Cut the soap base into cubes. Melt the soap base in a double boiler over medium-high heat. Once fully melted and free of any lumps or bumps, whisk in the pumpkin pie spice. Stir the mixture thoroughly.

Pour the soap into soap molds. Depending on the size of your chosen mold, you can end up with one dozen miniature soaps or two to three regular-sized soaps. Let the soaps sit at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two hours before removing from their molds.

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Although the summer sun is hot and the days are long, certain days and outings require summer jackets. Here are 5 jackets that are fashionable enough for your wardrobe, and light enough for the season.

1. Cargo jacket

My inner ‘90s child is losing her mind over this cargo jacket. I love its hood, its pockets—its my angry teenage fantasy. Not only are the jacket’s many pockets fashionable, they’re functional, too. I mean, just think how many lipsticks, phone accessories, etc. could fit in there? Wear this jacket with a mini skirt to accentuate its boxy, roomy style. Priced at $198.

2. Denim jacket

I don’t think there’s a denim jacket in the world that would look out of place on anyone, any time of the year. This jacket is no different. We love its classic, blue hue and its oversized, yet slim, cut. Features distressed detailing so you don’t look too put together. Priced at $89.50.

3. Lace jacket

We love summer jackets for another reason: Often times, they don’t actually have to provide a lot of warmth to be effective. For example: this jacket. Yes, it has killer style, but it will not keep you toasty come a cold, winter night. This jacket features the very trendy military cut, but is girled-up a bit thanks to its lace detail. Priced at $148.

4. Summer anorak

While this is technically not a jacket, we’re going to call it one anyway. This would pair well with maxi and midi dresses because of its subtly cinched waist. It also has two, front pockets that come in handy if you’d rather slip your ID, cash, and phone in them vs. carry a bag. Priced at $178.

5. Moto jacket

Has there ever really been an era where a moto jacket didn’t look amazing? We don’t think so. We love this moto jacket because of its short fit, woven detail, and easy-to-pull-up sleeves. Wear with shorts, jeans, skirts—basically with whatever. It’s that versatile. Priced at $148.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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Image of woman in jacket via Shutterstock

The post 5 Summer Jackets to Get You Through Until Fall: Friday Finds appeared first on EcoSalon.

‘Tis the seaon of pumpkin spice. Lattes, cookies, gum, candles… You name it, there seems to be a #PSL version of it. The trend has even gone to our heads. Literally.

That’s right, pumpkin spice hair color is happening. And it is not as weird as it sounds.

Okay, so the name might make this trend seem a bit out of hand. But pumpkin spice hair color is a warm shade of coppery auburn that most women can pull off. The pink, purple, green, and blue hair turning up everywhere these days makes pumpkin spice hair seem sort of demure. Starbucks’ world takeover has officially hit salons.

So yes, if you wish to adorn your locks with the hair version of a #PSL, you will have to go in for chemical coloring. Not so into the idea? There are other options to pumpkin spice up your beauty routine that will cost you far less in toxins and dollars.

Pumpkin Spice Up Your Beauty

Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Above and Beyond is brand new for the season. Just got my hands on this beauty yesterday and it is a new beauty staple. Because of the KJ sheerness, you can go either lightly warmed up or bright pop of color with this beautiful blush.

Kjaer Weis Lip Tint in Captivate is another new hue this fall. A pumpkin spice tone with a hint of gold.

W3LL People Elitist Shimmer Mineral Shadow in Luminous Copper gives that fall feeling to eyes. Add the powder to hair gel or moisturizer for a hit of glowy-ness.

Prtty Peaushun Skin Tight Body Lotion comes in several light reflecting, skin tightening shades. Add some warmth to your bod with this celeb favorite.

RMS Beauty now makes 5-free nail polish to match its lip and cheek tints! Curious is perfect for sporting your #PSL.

Still see yourself going with pumpkin spice hair color? Sally Hershberger Salons in West Hollywood and NYC both offer the color. Next best, take a pic along to your stylist.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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Image of pumpkin spice drink via Shutterstock

The post Pumpkin Spice Hair Color is a Trend and Not as Weird as It Sounds appeared first on EcoSalon.

Is there a better fall activity than cuddling under a warm blanket? Especially after getting out of a steamy shower, coming home from a brisk walk, eating dinner… you get the idea.

Well, if your current trusty comforter is starting to feel a bit ragged and lumpy, it may be time to upgrade. Before you pull out your wallet, though, you may want to subscribe to our newsletter. Because subscribing is the only thing you have to do to become eligible to win Obasan’s Banff 2.0 Fall Comforter. The entire prize has up to a $719 value and you can pick the comforter size of your choice. It truly doesn’t get better than that. Read on for all the cozy details.

Obasan, is a bedding manufacturer dedicated to helping people get a good night sleep. The company’s owners know that without a restful night of sleep, we’re not at our best. The company has been selling multiple sleep solutions since 1985. Obasan’s products are made with the “finest organic ingredients found on Earth.”

Luckily for you, the Banff Fall comforter 2.0 is designed for autumn nights. It’s medium-weight and will keep your entire body toasty on evenings where the temperature drops to near freezing. This cozy comforter is filled with organic wool. If you live in a super cool climate, you could easily pair this comforter with the Banff 1.0 to achieve the perfect amount of warmth.

So, does the Banff comforter sound like something you’d like to dress your bed with? We thought so. To become eligible for Obasan’s cloud-like blanket, all you have to do is sign up for our newsletter. And if you’re already signed up, that means you’re already entered!

Catch up with this brand on social media by visiting its following sites:

Facebook: obasansleepwell
Twitter @obasansleepwell
Instagram: @obasansleepwell

So, have you signed up yet? You better get to it!

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The post Cozy Up With Organic Bedding From Obasan in Our October Giveaway! ($719 Value) appeared first on EcoSalon.

One thing is for sure this time of year: Whether the weather is hot and sunny, wet and dreary, or cool and crisp … we are ready for fall! Evoke the season no matter what it’s like outside with fresh, natural  perfumes and scents.

You may not be wearing your chunky sweaters and ankle boots just yet (darn it!) but this doesn’t mean you can’t add a bit of autumn to you style. What’s light, invokes a sense of fall, and appropriate for any weather?

Fall scents! And natural perfumes lend that crisp, seasonal feel without the artificial fragrance side effects. Feeling something warm and earthy? Kick your cozy socked (or bare) feet up and peruse our list of the best fall perfumes to get your hands on now.

The list includes both perfume oils and sprays. What’s the diff? Oils do not contain the alcohol that makes a perfume spray-able. Oils also tend to be longer lasting, have a longer shelf life and richer aroma, and are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, like headache or skin irritation.

How to choose? If you have ultra-sensitive skin, choose a perfume oil. If you prefer to spritz like crazy and like a lighter scent, go for a spray.

5 Fall Scents to Get Your Autumn Started

1. Honoré Des Prés Vamp A NY is classic style meets modern woman. Tuberose and rum unite to create a delightful spritz-able scent Spirit Demerson deems “everything I love about autumn in a fragrance”.

2. For those who love floral scents year round, Strange Invisible Epic Gardenia Perfume is the way to go. The intense flower is grounded with velvety spiciness in this spray perfume.

Vanilla and cacao in a woodsy fusion? Yes, please! This is what you get in Tsi-La Organics L’Absolu Vanille Eau De Parfum, a universal oil blend.

And now for something completely different. Osmia Organics Cedar Smoke Perfume Oil is tantalizingly unique. Less sitting-around-the-campfire, more walk-in-the-forest. Created in Colorado, this baby is mountain living at its best.

Rose lovers rejoice. Lurk Made TBPV1 Perfume Oil combines traditional tuberose with black pepper in this modern throwback perfume oil. Think classic elegance meets contemporary style.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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Image of woman applying perfume via Shutterstock

The post 5 Natural Perfumes That Evoke Autumn’s Warm Earthiness appeared first on EcoSalon.