Take a Tour of Foods from Different Cultures

Did you know about 60 percent of people eat the same foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner?

You know...you have a few favorite meals you rotate through. And that’s about it. No change. No deviation. Just the same meals week after week.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with that, especially if you’re eating a variety of healthy foods. But if you want to improve your health, it makes sense to broaden your food choices to get a bigger mix of nutrients from a variety of foods.

And there’s an easy way to do it without taking on the role of professional chef. Open your mind...and your mouth...to meals from other cultures.

“Healthy eating is simply the consumption of multiple nutrient-rich food groups to support good health,” says registered dietitian Amber Charles. “Contrary to mainstream health and wellness messages, healthy eating looks different across communities and regions. It doesn’t have a specific look or require particular foods.”

Ready to take a tour of foods from different cultures? Prepare your taste buds for:

Mediterranean

Dark Chicken Meatballs with Harissa Tomato Sauce, Spaghetti Pasta and Zucchini

• Chicken meatballs, smothered with a sweet and spicy Mediterranean tomato sauce, over spaghetti and lightly seasoned zucchini.

Italian

Eggplant Parmigiana and Polenta with Spinach & Roasted Peppers

An Italian favorite, Eggplant Parmigiana is accompanied by creamy polenta and spinach.

Spanish

Seafood Paella

• The famous Seafood rice dish, made with fresh seafood and saffron for that authentic flavor.

Asian

Chicken with General Tso's Sauce, Rice & Chinese Blend Vegetables

• Grilled Chicken breast strips in a sweet, spicy, savory sauce that you're going to love!

Mexican

Beef with Salsa Verde, Mashed Potatoes & Brussel Sprouts

Get a little taste of Mexico with our Beef in Salsa Verde meal!

Oaxacan

Beef Short Ribs, Chayote Black Bean Succotash and Oaxacan Inspired Mole

• Braised tender beef short ribs with a Oaxacan inspired mole sauce, and a hearty black bean, corn and pepper medley.

Swedish

Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Brown Gravy, Noodles & Spinach

• Swedish Chicken Meatballs in a creamy brown gravy, served with noodles and spinach.

Want more ideas to mix up your menu and try foods from other cultures? Check out the complete Senior-Friendly menu of meals made from fresh ingredients.