Tablescape touchdown: Scoring with festive, fall 'finger food'

But, more important, such appetizers are also healthy and easy-to-make.

"I love simple, no-fuss party foods," Lown explained. "You don't need to be slaving away in a kitchen when you want to have a good time with your friends."

That's especially true for Lown, an Iowa State University Cyclones fan, who has some recipes for gridiron goodies.

For instance, she has created an Autumnal trail mix, which incorporates lightly salted popcorn, pepitos (or roasted pumpkin seeds), golden raisins, honey-roasted peanuts and candy corn.

"We eat with our eyes as well as with our mouths," Lown said. "A trail mix with plenty of yellows, oranges and gold just says fall to me."

The sugary candy corn offers a sweet contrast to the saltiness of the popcorn.

"Plus the popcorn adds bulk to the trail mix," Lown said. "You can easily add more popcorn to offset the Halloween candy."

Another way to welcome in the fall is with a hearty dip made of pumpkin.

"Dips are essential for any party," Lown said. "I've made mine by mixing pumpkin puree, a vanilla Greek yogurt and a touch of cinnamon."

"It looks pretty," she added, "and it smells wonderful."

Lown suggested thinly sliced pieces of apples can be used as "dippers" for her healthy appetizers.

"It's all about texture," she said. "I like the crunch of an apple inside a smooth, creamy dip, but you can also use a pita chip or a dipper of your choice."

Indeed, you can use other seasonal squashes for autumnal gatherings.

"Pumpkins and other squashes tend to be thought of as fall foods," Lown said. "Still, they have plenty of impressive health benefits."

For instance, fiber-rich and heart-friendly gourds can improve eyesight, aid in weight loss and ward off colds.

In addition, Lown said squashes can be used in the soups that are a staple at many tailgating parties.

"Who doesn't like a nice and healthy soup on a crisp fall day?" she asked.

That's also true for every item on Lown's pigskin-friendly buffet.

"Appetizers should never be difficult to make," she said. "As long as you have creative recipes and good ingredients, your guests will always be happy."

And as for Lown, she's still rooting for her beloved Cyclones.

"I'm keeping my fingers cross for a good season," she said, smiling. "I guess the two things I like best about autumn are plenty of college football and plenty of terrific fall foods."