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Having some kind of activity after work has always been important to me, as it helps me relax and distract myself from work – and research actually indicates that stress can have a significant impact on the health of our brain as we age. And while cooking certainly helps with that, sometimes it feels more like a chore than a pleasure on weeknights. This is when a quick dinner plan comes in handy. This week’s healthy dinners are ready in 30 minutes or less to help me get the most out of my evenings.
Your meal plan
As great as it is to have access to the fountain of youth, the truth is that aging is a natural process that we cannot escape. And honestly, should we? I think growing old comes with a sense of self-acceptance, resilience, and growth, not to mention the knowledge and experiences we accumulate. And, ultimately, supporting our health as we age can be a delightful undertaking.
Garlic-Lime Pork with Farro and Spinach makes a tasty and nutritious meal for Sunday dinner. Not only is this recipe mouth-watering, it’s ready in 25 minutes, using just one pan for easy cleanup. Pork is an excellent source of two essential nutrients that help maintain our health as we age: protein and choline. Protein is essential for maintaining our muscle mass as we age, and choline supports healthy cognitive function, including verbal and visual memory. Additionally, farro also provides protein and fiber, an essential nutrient that feeds our gut bacteria to support our immune health and prevent disease. And the zesty peanut butter-lime sauce that flavors this dish is a real delight!
Sunday: Garlic-Lime Pork with Farro and Spinach
Monday: Taco Stuffed Avocados
Tuesday: Air-Fryer Turkey Stuffed Peppers with Whole Wheat Couscous
Wednesday: Cauliflower Rice Bowls with Grilled Chicken
THURSDAY: Superfood Chopped Salad with Salmon and Creamy Garlic Dressing served with a Slice of Whole Wheat Sourdough Bread
Friday: Sweet and Sour Chicken with Broccoli
something to sip
Although I like to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer on the weekends, I usually skip the booze during the week. And with temperature spikes on the horizon, a refreshing drink like this Sparkling Strawberry-Ginger Lemonade seems like a delicious option to keep me hydrated. Plus, the sparkling pink lemonade adds a nice effervescence, which makes it even more elegant.
Get the recipe: Sparkling Strawberry-Ginger Lemonade
What inspires me this week
Summer is almost upon us and grocery stores like Aldi are starting to stock their shelves with new, limited-edition healthy items. Flavored drinks are among the most exciting items, from rosé cider to sparkling kombucha. And I was so excited to see the Berryhill Extra Hot Honey on the list, perfect for making delicious sweet and savory dishes, which my husband loves.
Learn more: 9 healthy finds coming to Aldi in May