Food for Thought

These salmon cakes are adorable on their own, but the sweet-savoury blueberry sauce is what puts this weeknight-worthy meal over the top, so to speak. And in this age of rising food costs, it’s heartening to know that budget-friendly dishes like this one can be both nutritious and delicious. Consider serving with a side of roasted sweet potato or whole grain rice.

Something about summer weather makes most people want to cook dishes requiring minimal time, effort, and cleanup. This version of Italian puttanesca fits the bill. Eggs and chickpeas are nestled into a super-fragrant sauce studded with flavour boosters including garlic, capers, and anchovies. Consider serving with crusty sourdough bread so you can enjoy every last bit of this sauce.

The trio of walnuts, tempeh, and mushrooms is a nutrient-dense and meaty-tasting substitute for meat in these plant-strong tacos. The mixture mimics the texture of ground meat quite nicely. If using smaller street-style corn tortillas, a more appropriate serving size might be three tacos. You are welcome to add a dollop of sour cream.

When temperatures begin to climb, it’s good to know that soup need not be off the menu. Just serve it cold for a refreshing way to beat the heat. This vibrant Thai-flavoured carrot soup is a feast for the eyes and a smart way to spoon up some brain-benefitting nutrition. The soup may thicken in the refrigerator, so thin with additional liquid if needed. During the cooler months, this soup can be served warm for cozy comfort.

Whether serving for breakfast or after a hard workout, this “I-can’t-believe-it-has-greens” frosty smoothie hits all the nutritional and flavour high points. Yes, it does taste like dessert in a glass. If your dates are dry or stiff, it’s recommended to soak them in warm water for a few minutes before blending. If you want to go big on protein, you can blend in some of your favourite protein powder.

A growing body of research shows that what we eat can help us maintain mental sharpness. From fork to brain, these recipes feature the necessary nutrition to keep you sharp as a whip.