Enjoy a Fall Equinox Feast
You know that weird time of year when your body’s craving soup, but your brain’s still clinging to iced coffee? That’s where this feast lives. Think of it as a Sunday reset for the real world: cozy, high-protein dishes that support your immune system without tasting like you’ve given up. It’s brunch, but better: built for crisp air, slower mornings, and getting your life together—just a little—before Monday (September 22) equinox hits.
The autumnal equinox—that magical moment when day and night balance out, signalling the shift from summer to fall—isn’t just a celestial event. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and honour the cycle of the seasons.
For centuries, cultures across the world have celebrated this time of year with food, ritual, and reverence. In North America, the equinox ties deeply to harvest traditions. It’s when Indigenous communities traditionally give thanks for the bounty of the land, celebrating the crops that would see them through the coming months. It’s also when settlers harvested root vegetables, apples, and grains—staples that would fill pantries and sustain families during the long winter ahead.
But what makes the equinox particularly special, from a culinary perspective, is the way it connects us to the rhythms of nature. This is when food turns heartier, more nourishing, and deeply restorative—as if our bodies are preparing to hunker down and replenish before the cold sets in. It’s not just about what’s on the table; it’s also about how we feel when we gather together.
Interestingly, while North Americans mark the equinox with seasonal dishes that include autumnal gifts such as squash and apples, other cultures around the world mark this time with similar rituals.
Higan, celebrated in Japan during both the spring and fall equinoxes, is a time for reflection and remembrance, where meals often feature seasonal vegetables and grains that symbolize both abundance and balance.
In Mesoamerica, the equinox was celebrated with sun rituals that honoured the changing seasons and crops. While the exact foods may differ, the essence of marking this transition remains the same: a time to pause, nourish, and reflect on the cycle of life.
So, why celebrate the equinox? It’s more than just marking a date on the calendar. It’s about connecting with the rhythms of nature, grounding ourselves in tradition, and, yes, sharing a meal that speaks to the heart of the season. It’s a reminder that life is cyclical—and that, with each shift, there’s nourishment to be found, both in the food we eat and the community we share it with.
Enjoy our slow autumn equinox feast to help you (and your immune system) land softly into fall—with cozy, high-protein dishes, mood-boosting ingredients―and zero sad salads in sight.
This collection was originally published in the September 2025 issue of alive magazine.
Corinne Quesnel is a Vancouver-based photographer, recipe developer, and health writer. She creates visually stunning, nutritious recipes, blending her passion for food and wellness with creative flair.
