Summer means warm weather and sunny days, but it also brings some challenges for aged care catering teams. Keeping residents hydrated is super important, especially on hot days, as they're more likely to get dehydrated.
Luckily, you can add hydrating foods to your menu to help residents stay cool and healthy while enjoying tasty meals. Here are some practical tips to keep everyone well-hydrated this summer.
Why Hydrating Foods Matter
Not drinking enough water can cause a bunch of health problems like feeling tired, getting confused, or even getting urinary tract infections. Residents might not feel thirsty as much or have health issues that make it tough to stay hydrated. Adding foods with lots of water to their meals not only makes things tastier and more interesting but also helps keep them healthy.
Top Hydrating Foods for Summer
Many fruits and vegetables have high water content, making them perfect for summer menus. Some excellent options include:
Cucumber (95% water): A refreshing addition to salads or as a chilled soup.
Watermelon (92% water): A sweet treat that can be served fresh, pureed, or even frozen as icy poles.
Tomatoes (94% water): Great for soups, sauces, or blended into savoury purees.
Zucchini (94% water): Perfect for soups, sautés, or grated into frittatas.
Berries (85-91% water): Serve them fresh, blended into smoothies, or as a topping for yoghurt.
Oranges (86% water): Juicy and full of flavour, they’re excellent fresh, juiced, or as or as a base for desserts.
Chef Lee's Fresh Recipes for your Summer Menu
Summer Protein Blueberry Quinoa Salad
This vibrant summer salad combines protein-packed quinoa with crunchy almonds, nutrient-rich pumpkin seeds, sweet blueberries, and a pop of colour.
Perfect as a light lunch or a healthy side, this dish offers a delicious balance of flavours and textures to brighten your summer meals.
Login to SoupedUp to Get the Recipe.
Strawberry, Basil and Lemon H20 Infusion
This refreshing drink is a perfect way to stay hydrated with a burst of natural flavour.
The sweetness of fresh strawberries, the fragrant aroma of basil, and the zesty tang of lemon combine to create a revitalising drink. Ideal for a hot day, it’s a simple, healthy, and delicious way for residents to enjoy water.
Login to SoupedUp to Get the Recipe.
Tips for Success
Monitor Residents: Keep an eye on hydration levels and adjust menus based on feedback.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Maximise flavour and nutrition by choosing seasonal produce.
Leverage Technology: Catering software like SoupedUp can help streamline menu planning, ensuring you meet hydration goals while accommodating dietary requirements and preferences.
Encourage Fluid Intake: Pair meals with infused waters or herbal teas for additional hydration.
A Cool Summer Ahead
By incorporating these hydrating foods and meal ideas, you can help residents beat the summer heat while enjoying delicious and nutritious foods. With careful planning and the right tools, such as SoupedUp’s catering software, meeting hydration goals becomes easier than ever.
Let’s make this summer a refreshing and enjoyable season for all your residents!
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