Blueberries have just the right mix of acid and pectin so that they're terrific in both sweet and savory dishes. They work especially well with thyme - so this easy turkey saute can be a delight whenever the berries are in season. To make this dish into a meal, dress some quick-cooking barley with lemon and pepper and offer steamed green beans on the side.
This fresh take on gazpacho—a chilled tomato soup—is spiked with chopped chipotle peppers, which add a deep, smoky heat to the dish. The cilantro-yogurt swirl balances the heat from the chiles and makes a beautiful garnish. Serve this soup as a starter for dinner on a warm summer evening..
The mild anise flavor of fennel seed is balanced by the rich-tasting pan gravy and peppers. Serve with egg noodles tossed with parsley and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
The one-two punch of coconut and macadamia nuts in this luxurious muffin will make you think you're having your morning coffee in Hawaii. Drizzle with honey for an added touch of sweetness.
The mellow grilled eggplant melds perfectly with the smoked paprika and tart sherry vinegar that define the flavor of the dressing in this decidedly Spanish salad. Curls of mild Manchego complete the Spanish theme. If you can't find smoked paprika, substitute Hungarian paprika—the grilled eggplant brings some smoke to the salad on its own.
Everything you know about healthy living applies in spades as you age. EatingWell’s food and nutrition editors have chosen recipes for healthy aging that serve 2 and 4 or more, but any EatingWell recipe will fit into a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Pack your diet with fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and other plant-based foods for their beneficial compounds that may help protect against heart disease, high blood pressure and macular degeneration. Moderate your fat, sugar and alcohol consumption. Keep your weight in check; those extra pounds put you at risk for heart and joint problems, and diabetes. Because of metabolic changes in vitamin absorption, ask you doctor about supplements including calcium (for bone strength), D (for calcium absorption), and B vitamin complex (for blood and nerve health).
Aging well is also about living well; pleasure is an important aspect of everyday life. Exercise 30 minutes per day to stay healthy. A simple 1/2 hour walk will keep your body and mind in shape by increasing your blood flow and keeping your muscles toned. Relish your meals—and enjoy these delicious recipes for healthy aging. You’ll be on your way to aging well with grace and vigor.