Has your senior loved one become pickier about food lately? As we mentioned in a previous blog, there can be several reasons why this occurs, and it’s essential to ensure good nutrition in the elderly. Nutritious summer recipes for seniors should incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients that are easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat. Here are some ideas for refreshing and healthy summer recipes:
Grilled Vegetable Salad
Ingredients:
- Assorted summer vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, etc.)
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the vegetables until they are slightly charred and tender.
- Arrange the grilled vegetables on a plate, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cold Cucumber Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the chopped cucumbers, yogurt, mint leaves, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Chill the soup in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Serve in chilled bowls and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes and feta cheese.
- Toss gently to mix.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
Ingredients:
- Fresh salmon fillets
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the mango salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the salmon for a few minutes on each side until cooked through.
- For the mango salsa, combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Serve the grilled salmon with a generous spoonful of mango salsa on top.
Tropical Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup diced mango
- 1/2 cup coconut water or plain water
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine all the ingredients and blend until smooth.
- If desired, add ice cubes and blend again for a chilled smoothie.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Remember to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of the seniors you cook for. These recipes are meant to be flexible, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and flavors to suit individual tastes. Enjoy the summer with these delicious and nutritious recipes!