Full-blown autumn deserves a celebration of full-blown autumn flavors, like those from rich and nutty squash pumpkins, sweet juicy apples and earthy Brussels sprouts. For chef Ron Oliver of Chef Ron Oliver Catering, this time of year is all about the persimmon.

“Autumn is my favorite season,” he said. “Persimmons are just the sign of autumn in every aspect. It’s the color, that earthy orange color. And it’s what it goes with.

Oliver has shared three distinctive recipes with me for readers of The San Diego Union-Tribune’s Food section: a Scallop Crudo with Persimmon Relish, a Caramelized Persimmon Upside-Down Cake, and Persimmon Corn Muffins with Chile Pepita Butter. It won’t be fall without these!