Nutritious summer foods for senior communities are important for residents to not only stay strong and healthy, but also to stay cool and refreshed! Whether you’re taking care of a loved one, or you’re looking for summer culinary ideas for those in aged care, these summer foods, snacks, and meals will help them beat the heat and stay healthy! Check out the snacks & summer meal ideas for seniors!
Best Summer Snacks for Seniors
No matter if your senior loved one is playing cards, watching movies, relaxing by the pool, or participating in other engaging activities, eating these nutritious snacks in the summer will ensure they stay cool and refreshed!
Water Dense Fruits
Staying hydrated during the summer is so important, especially for seniors! No matter if your loved one is living on their own or if they’re in independent living, assisted living, or memory care, snacking on thirst-quenching fruits that have high water content is one of the best ways to do so!
WATERMELON
92% Water
Watermelon is high in vitamins A and C, with some B vitamins and antioxidants like lycopene. It also contains about 92% water, making it the most refreshing, hydrating fruit!
STRAWBERRIES
91% Water
Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, with around 91% water content, these are another one of the most refreshing fruits of the summer! Other berries are good too!
GRAPEFRUIT
88% Water
Grapefruits are high in vitamins A & C, fiber, and antioxidants, and they contain about 88% water. They’re refreshing, but sweet, making them a great summer snack!
ORANGES
86% Water
Oranges are not only an excellent source of vitamin C, but they also contain fiber, several B vitamins, and are about 86% water content!
CANTALOUPE
90% Water
They are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants; and they contain about 90% water, putting them right up there with watermelon!
PEACHES
89% Water
Peaches are a great source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. They’re sweet & have around 89% water content!
PINEAPPLE
86% Water
They are high in vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, an anti-inflammatory enzyme! Containing about 86% water & offering a tart flavor, they’re a great snack!
PEARS
86% Water
Made up of about 84% water content, pears are also rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium! Not only are they healthy but they’re also soft, making them super easy to eat.
MANGOS
83% Water
Sweet & soft, Mangos are high in vitamins A & C, fiber, and antioxidants; they also contain around 83% water, making them the perfect snack to hydrate!
5 Healthy Meals Using Summer Foods
If you’re looking for some quick and easy recipes to try this summer using fresh ingredients, we’ve got you covered. Below are some great recipes for seniors that are part of a healthy diet and nutrition plan.
Warm Oatmeal and Fresh Berries
Ingredients:
- Fresh blueberries, strawberries or raspberries
- Old-fashioned oats
- Butter
Instructions:
- Place fresh berries in a crockpot on low heat with a small pat of butter.
- Add one serving of old-fashioned oats with water.
- Cover and cook on low for several hours or overnight.
- Scoop and enjoy.
Yogurt Parfait
Ingredients:
- Yogurt (look for yogurt low in sugar)
- Seasonal nuts or sunflower seeds
- Fresh fruit
Instructions:
- Place yogurt in the bottom of a small dish or cup.
- Top with nuts and fresh fruit.
- Refrigerate or serve immediately.
Southwest Omelet
Ingredients:
- Two eggs
- One tbsp. olive oil
- Pepper jack cheese
- Fresh salsa
- Avocado
Instructions:
- Beat two eggs.
- Add 1 tbsp. olive oil to a skillet and heat.
- Pour in the egg mixture and add in cheese and salsa.
- When eggs are light yellow and firm, fold and serve with avocado.
Summer Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Olive oil
- Summer squash
- Sweet corn
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce mix
Instructions:
- Cook chicken thoroughly on medium heat in a skillet seasoned with olive oil.
- Once cooked through, shred and place in the refrigerator.
- Cut up vegetables and add to a bowl with salad mix.
- Add in shredded chicken and mix before eating.
Veggie-Packed Pizza
Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- 1 cup shaved zucchini
- Pre-made whole-wheat pizza crust
- Refrigerated basil pesto
- 2 tomatoes
- Baby spring mix
- Chopped fresh basil
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Brush a whole-wheat pizza crust with olive oil and layer with basil pesto.
- Cut all vegetables and layer on pizza.
- Sprinkle with cheese (if desired) and then broil in oven until cheese melts and crust is heated through.
- Garnish with sliced basil and slice before eating.
One of the best things about summer foods is that they taste great raw. Adding them to cooked dishes enhances the flavor and ensures you get a nutrient-packed, delicious meal. Experiment with different flavors and find recipes that inspire you to eat healthy.
Focus on Nutrition at Heritage Senior Living
Heritage Senior Living understands the importance of a nutritionally balanced diet. At our independent living community, you can leave the cooking to our staff when you dine in one of our chef-inspired, in-house restaurants. With a coordinated schedule of outings and activities, exquisite culinary creations, and an integrative wellness program, you’ll find everything you need to feel at home. Learn more about the continuous care offered at Heritage Senior Living. Contact us today with questions or to schedule a tour.
