A balanced, nutritious diet is the foundation for healthy living. The building blocks of our daily lives from which we draw energy to live a productive, purposeful life. Good food is just the beginning when it comes to happiness: fueling our body, thereby bolstering our mind and spirit.
Good food enjoyed with family and friends? Even better! Eating with others ensures quality time is taken enjoying our food, as well as the company, and can even promote exploring new, healthy foods we might not otherwise try.
We’ve curated a summer menu that’s sure to impress and inspire, cooked up by some of Verve’s finest chefs across Canada. So prepare with care, take your time, and put away the distractions of devices and life. Then dig in!
Appetizer Eats
Did you know: Green beans are packed with protein, fiber, and blood pressure-regulating folate and potassium, while asparagus is rich in folic acid, Vitamin K and E, and antioxidants. Always eat your greens!
Poached Egg on Tomato Green Bean and Burrata Salad
Watch Regional Food and Beverage Manager Bruce Schell put together this delicious combination of creamy burrata cheese with crisp, fresh tomatoes on green beans for a perfect summer salad or appetizer.
Download the recipe here.
Smoked Salmon Wrapped Asparagus with Bearnaise Sauce
Enjoy this West Coast-inspired dish at brunch, lunch, or dinner! Smoked salmon with sautéd asparagus and drizzled in warm bearnaise sauce is perfectly accented with citrus for a summer twist.
Download the recipe here.
The Main Course
Did you know: Protein is important for carrying oxygen throughout your body and can help with blood sugar balance, as well as increase energy.
Grilled Bean Burger
Fire up the barbecue for this vegetarian-inspired grilled bean burger with Chef Gustavo Hernandez from The Shores of Port Credit to put a protein-packed twist on this grill favourite.
Download the recipe here.
Okanagan Chicken
Learn how to infuse summer sweet pears into this Okanagan-inspired chicken recipe featuring brie, toasted walnuts, and fresh herbs, with Chef Jeremy Duncan.
Download the recipe here.
Dessert
Did you know: Strawberries contain flavonoids which are thought to slow age-related memory loss. They also help slow the digestion of glucose that can help manage the effects of type-2 diabetes.
Zabaglione with Fresh Strawberries
Eggs for dessert? Yes please! Watch how Chef Mark Cajimat from Granville Gardens Retirement Residence prepares this delicious, zesty strawberry dessert.
Download the recipe here.
Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Cake
We love every last crumb of Chef Crystel’s Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Cake! The perfect finishing touch to a summer’s meal.
Download the recipe here.
Read more about nutrition for optimal aging: A list of the top 15 foods that should be on your shopping list to boost strength and vitality for optimal aging. Because as we age, “eating right” becomes increasingly important! It can help fight inflammation, boost things like collagen, and provide the vitamins we need.
Bon Appetit!
