Low Effort, High Reward

Low Effort. High Reward

Flavorful Autumn Meals with A Spice Affair

Life gets busy, but your meals don’t have to suffer! With the right spices and a few simple techniques, you can create delicious, restaurant-worthy dishes in no time. In this post, we’ll explore easy, high-reward autumn recipes using A Spice Affair blends that elevate your weeknight dinners, lunches, or cozy weekend meals.

Why “Low Effort, High Reward” Works

• Saves time: Simple recipes with fewer steps but maximum flavour.

• Boosts confidence: Quick wins in the kitchen encourage more cooking.

• Encourages experimentation: Quality spice blends add complexity without extra work.

• Supports balanced eating: Flavourful meals can be nutritious without being complicated.

  
  

Fun fact: A 2023 study from Cornell University found that home cooks who use pre-mixed spice blends are more likely to experiment with new ingredients and cook at home more often, which contributes to healthier eating habits.

Three Low Effort, High Reward Autumn Recipes

1. Autumn Harvest Sheet-Pan Spiced Veggies & Chickpeas

Spice Blend: Batata Harra Seasoning or Smoky Chipotle Seasoning

Why it’s high reward: Minimal prep, single pan, hearty autumn flavours.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

• 1 can chickpeas, drained & rinsed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tsp Batata Harra Seasoning or Smoky Chipotle Seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. On a sheet pan, toss all vegetables and chickpeas with olive oil, spice blend, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread evenly and roast 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway.

4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a main or side dish.

   
   

2. One-Pot Autumn Pumpkin & Lentil Soup

Spice Blend: Butter Chicken Seasoning

Why it’s high reward: Cozy, creamy, and ready in 30 minutes with just one pot.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz)

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tsp Butter Chicken Seasoning

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.

2. Add pumpkin puree, lentils, broth, Butter Chicken Seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.

4. Blend partially with an immersion blender for creaminess if desired.

5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

   
   

3. Spiced Apple & Pear Crisp

Spice Blend: Batata Harra Seasoning (for a subtle, savoury twist)

Why it’s high reward: Simple fall dessert with warm, cozy flavours in one dish.

Ingredients (serves 6):

• 3 apples, peeled & sliced

• 2 pears, peeled & sliced

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp Batata Harra Seasoning (adds a subtle savoury depth)

• ½ cup oats

• ¼ cup almond flour

• 2 tbsp coconut oil

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Toss apples and pears with maple syrup, lemon juice, and Batata Harra Seasoning.

3. Place fruit in a baking dish.

4. Mix oats, almond flour, coconut oil, and brown sugar to make the topping.

5. Sprinkle topping over fruit and bake 30–35 minutes, until fruit is tender and topping is golden.

6. Serve warm, optionally with yogurt or ice cream.

   
   

Tips for Maximum Flavour with Minimal Effort

• Keep versatile spice blends on hand (Butter Chicken, Batata Harra, Smoky Chipotle).

• Prep ingredients in advance (chop onions, measure spices).

• Use one-pan or sheet-pan cooking methods to save clean-up.

• Experiment with your favourite autumn vegetables and proteins.

  
  

✨ Want to try these recipes yourself?

I am an Ambassador and can help you stock your pantry for effortless, flavourful meals so I can connect you with the A Spice Affair blends featured above.

📌 Join my Real Meals with The Pantry Planner FB group for tips, recipe ideas, and inspiration from fellow home chefs: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CUKxasrxw/

🥄 Stirring up goodness,

Laura Grannary

The Pantry Planner