Food is a valuable commodity that we shouldn't waste, particularly when caring for our senior loved ones. As family caretakers, it's our job to ensure their meals are both nutritious and enjoyable. We also know that time is often short. However, there's a creative, savvy way to save time, reduce waste, and still provide delicious meals. This blog post shares easy-to-follow ideas for repurposing leftovers and turning them into today's culinary delight, all while catering to the specific dietary needs of seniors.
Three Ways to Start Repurposing Leftovers
1. Let's start with something simple yet delicious — pasta. If you've made too much pasta for dinner, don't throw it out! Transform it into a healthy pasta salad for lunch. Mix it with fresh vegetables, olive oil, and some herbs, and voila! You've created a fresh meal full of nutrients that is easy for seniors to digest. This method can also be adapted to other types of leftover cooked grains, like quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or farro.
2. Next, let's reconsider leftover roast chicken. Leftover chicken serves as a fantastic base for a hearty chicken soup. Shred the chicken and add some vegetables, fresh herbs, grains, or pasta, and simmer it all in a pot with some water or chicken stock. It's a warming, comforting dish that's perfect for all seasons, and especially appropriate for seniors who may have difficulties with solid food.
3. Consider that uneaten loaf of whole-grain bread. If the bread is slightly stale, it's perfect for a breakfast treat. Mix it with eggs, low-fat milk, sugar, and vanilla to create a wholesome bread pudding. It's a delightful breakfast and a way to increase seniors' calcium and protein intake. Extra stale bread can also be torn into small pieces, drizzled in olive oil, and toasted in the oven to make croutons — minus all the additives the store-bought variety can include.
Tips for Proper Food Storage and Reheating Practices
Now that we've discussed reimagining your leftovers, it's time for a quick run-through of safe storage and reheating practices. Remember, improperly stored and reheated food may lead to food poisoning, which can be particularly harmful for our elderly loved ones.
Always store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. If you don't consume the leftovers within three days, consider freezing them (don't forget to label the container with the date!) When reheating, ensure the food reaches a temperature of at least 165°F to kill potentially harmful bacteria. And, of course, if it looks or smells off, it's better to throw it away than to take any chances.
Senior Helpers Can Assist With Your Meal Preparations
Repurposing leftovers into new meals is an innovative and efficient way to ensure our senior loved ones get the nutrition they need. Not only does this save time and reduce waste, but it also gives you a chance to get creative in the kitchen and make something special from what might have otherwise gone to waste.
Remember, if caring for your senior loved ones feels overwhelming, you're not alone. At Senior Helpers Westchester County, we provide the best care to senior residents in Scarsdale, Port Chester, Westchester County, and White Plains. Contact us here for support today!