Easy Meals for Seniors in Independent Living

Sometimes, we all crave the comfort and satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. But with busy schedules, finding the time to cook can be challenging. If you enjoy the freedom of preparing your own meals, Somerby St. Vincent’s can help! We’ve compiled a list of easy-to-make, delicious recipes to get you started:

1. Vegetable stir-fry
2. Baked salmon with lemon & dill
3. Spinach quiche
4. Cauliflower fried rice
5. Pita & hummus dip

And for those days when you’d prefer to savor a delicious meal without the prep work, Somerby St. Vincent’s culinary team is here to impress. Our executive chefs prepare exquisite dishes that nourish the body and feed the soul.

1. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Craving a quick and customizable meal? Look no further than a vegetable stir-fry! This versatile dish allows you to incorporate your favorite veggies, making it an excellent option for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• Assortment of colorful vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
• Protein of your choice (tofu, chicken, shrimp, etc.)
• Soy sauce
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the protein of your choice and cook until browned.
3. Add the vegetables. Stir-fry for a few minutes until they are crisp-tender.
4. Season with soy sauce and garlic powder to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Baked Salmon with Lemon & Dill

Looking for a light and flavorful way to end your day? Salmon is packed with nutrients that keep you feeling your best. This easy-to-make baked salmon recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• Fresh salmon filet
• Lemon slices (thin)
• Fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place the salmon filet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Top the salmon with lemon slices and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill.
4. Bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve with steamed vegetables or a salad for a well-rounded meal.

3. Spinach Quiche

Quiche is surprisingly easy to make and endlessly customizable! It’s fun to experiment with flavors beyond spinach, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and broccoli. Any option can transform this dish into a delightful and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• Eggs
• Spinach (fresh or frozen, chopped)
• Diced vegetables of your choice (bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli work well!)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a blend)
• Milk or cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Line a pie dish with your chosen crust.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach, shredded cheese, and your favorite diced vegetables.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
7. Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.

4. Cauliflower Fried Rice

Craving a healthier spin on a classic comfort food? Look no further than cauliflower fried rice! This flavorful dish uses riced cauliflower as a delicious base, making it a lighter alternative to traditional fried rice.

Ingredients:

• Cauliflower rice (pre-made or pulse florets in a food processor)
• Assorted frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• Chopped green onions
• Protein of your choice (scrambled eggs, diced chicken, or tofu)
• Soy sauce
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add your chosen vegetables and protein, and stir-fry until cooked through.
3. Add the cauliflower rice and stir-fry for a few minutes until heated and slightly softened (but not mushy).
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

5. Pita & Hummus Dip

Sometimes, a light and satisfying snack hits the spot after a busy day.  For a healthier alternative to chips or popcorn, why not whip up a delicious hummus and pita bread combo?

Ingredients:

• Pita bread (available at most grocery stores)
• For the Hummus:
  • Chickpeas (canned, drained)
  • Lemon juice
  • Tahini
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Spices of your choice (paprika, garlic powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper)

Instructions:

1. Combine the drained chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a little water or olive oil if the hummus is too thick.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Add more lemon juice for extra tang, more tahini for creaminess, or more salt for flavor.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite spices.
5. Enjoy with pita bread for a delightful and healthy snack!

Healthy Senior Living

Whether you enjoy the freedom of preparing your own meals in your comfortable apartment kitchen or prefer to savor delicious, restaurant-style cuisine, we’re here to cater to you.

Contact us today to schedule a visit and discover the vibrant lifestyle options at Somerby St. Vincent’s One Nineteen!