Three Easy Snack Recipes for Seniors

July is National Culinary Arts Month and it's the perfect time to try out some new, easy recipes! There are plenty of ways for your senior loved ones to enjoy tasty food this month, while also keeping it healthy!

We know that eating a healthy balanced diet is beneficial, especially as we age. A well-balanced diet can keep you energized, helps you maintain a healthy weight, and gives you the daily nutrients you need. Studies also show that a well-balanced diet can lower the risk of developing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Here are three simple recipes to try this month with your aging loved ones. Enjoy!

Baked apple chips sprinkled with cinnamon

This recipe is perfect for a summer afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• Three red apples
• 1/2 tbsp lemon juice, fresh
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

How to make:

• First, start by thinly slicing the apples. They should be 1/8 inch thick, similar to a potato chip. It's best to use a sharper knife for this step to get the best results.
• Second, toss the apple slices with a bit of cinnamon and lemon juice and spread them on a baking sheet. Make sure they don't overlap. You want to make sure these have a nice crunch to them.
• Next, set your oven at 225 degrees Fahrenheit and set the alarm to let them bake for 2 hours.
• Finally, once the alarm goes off, take your apple chips out and let them cool for 5 minutes. Once your chips are cool, enjoy them along with an ice-cold glass of lemonade.

Balsamic tomatoes with feta and fresh herbs

The perfect option for a refreshing snack on a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp fresh basil
• Six small or three medium tomatoes
• 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar 
• salt and pepper for taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 oz feta cheese

How to make:

• First, slice your tomatoes. You want them to lay evenly on a platter, so the thickness of each slice is up to you.
• Second, drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the top of your tomatoes, and then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Next, you'll place it in the refrigerator and let it "marinate" for at least half an hour, but not longer than an hour. However, if you plan to marinate them longer than an hour, cover them loosely with plastic wrap to preserve the freshness.
• Finally, when ready to serve, sprinkle the fresh feta cheese along with your chopped herbs over the top. You can then serve this dish as a snack or a refreshing appetizer before a meal.

Dark Chocolate Orange Slices

Did you know that oranges have several health benefits? It's true. The Vitamin C found in oranges helps your body in many ways, including helping with iron absorption, helping your body make collagen, and protecting your cells from damage. This last snack may take a bit longer to prepare, but it will taste great and make you feel even better!

Ingredients:

• Three oranges
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Supplies:

• Wax paper
• Cookie sheets
• Spatula

How to make: 

• First, clean your oranges well with a vegetable scrubber and then rinse them off. 
• Cut your oranges crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices with a mandolin or sharp knife. Once done, discard the end pieces.
• Preheat your oven to 275 degrees. As the oven is heating, place your orange slices evenly on a baking sheet covered with wax paper.
• Squeeze lemon juice over the orange slices and then place in the oven to begin drying. This process may take up to 6 hours, so it's important to keep an eye on the oranges.
• Once oranges begin to dry, lower the oven temperature to 120 degrees or "warm" to prevent burning. 
• When oranges are done drying, take them out of the oven and let them cool.
• Next, melt your dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, checking every 15 seconds to ensure the chocolate is melting correctly.
• Lastly, dip the rings of the oranges in the melted dark chocolate and enjoy!

How Visiting Angels Hurst, TX can help

Trying new recipes is fun and something that the whole family can enjoy! Keep in mind that it's important for your senior loved ones to be safe in the kitchen. A Visiting Angels Hurst, TX caregiver can assist in the kitchen with meal planning, grocery shopping, cooking, and more! If you are interested in learning more about what a Visiting Angels Hurst, TX caregiver can offer your loved one, please visit us online or give us a call at 817-952-3223.