October is National Cookbook Month, so it is time to dust off all of your old cookbooks and family recipes. This month can be used to try out new recipes or recreate old family recipes. Baking and cooking may also bring back fond memories for your elderly parent. If they have physical limitations that make it difficult to cook by themselves, an elderly care provider can offer the assistance they need, while also helping with tasks that have become too challenging for them to accomplish alone.

In order to kick off National Cookbook Month, here are some healthy and simple recipes that your loved one will enjoy making with you or an elder care provider.

Banana Split Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup quick-cooking oatmeal
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup hot water
• ½ banana, sliced
• ½ cup non-fat frozen yogurt

Directions:

• Combine the oatmeal and salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the water.
• Microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir. Microwave on high for an additional minute. Stir again.
• Microwave once again for 30-60 seconds, or until the oatmeal reaches the desired consistency.
• Stir again.
• Top with frozen yogurt and banana slices.

Marinated Three-Bean Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 can lima beans, 8.5 ounces
• 1 can cut green beans, 8 ounces
• 1 can red kidney beans, 8 ounces
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced and separated into two rings
• ½ cup sweet green pepper, chopped
• 8 ounces fat-free Italian dressing

Directions:

• Drain the canned beans.
• Peel and slice the onion, separating into two rings.
• Combine all ingredients except for the Italian dressing into a large bowl.
• Pour the Italian dressing over the vegetables and beans. Toss lightly to coat.
• Cover the bowl and allow to marinate for at least one hour. It can also marinate overnight.
• Drain before serving.

Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 can white beans, 15 ounces, rinsed and drained
• 1 small onion or 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 cup of water
• 1 can plain pumpkin, 15 ounces
• 1 can low-salt vegetable or chicken broth, 14.5 ounces
• ½ teaspoon thyme or tarragon
• Salt and pepper to taste, optional

Directions:

• Blend the beans, onion, and water.
• Combine bean puree, pumpkin, broth, and spices in a soup pot.
• Cover and cook over low heat for between 15 and 20 minutes until warmed thoroughly.
• These are just a few ideas to get you and your loved one started for National Cookbook month, but feel free to whip up some of your favorite family recipes.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Richardson, TX, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands of Preston Hollow today at (214) 865-7870.