Taste the Season: Welcoming Summer with Fresh Flavors at Melody Living

As summer takes center stage in Lake in the Hills, it brings with it sunshine, vibrant produce, and the perfect opportunity to enjoy seasonal flavors while embracing holistic wellness.

At Melody Living Lake in the Hills’ Independent Living community, we encourage residents to explore the joy of cooking, eating well, and connecting with one another, especially when it involves delicious, farm-fresh ingredients from our area’s beloved farmers' markets.

One of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to celebrate the season is with a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish that supports wellness in every bite. Today, we’re sharing a crowd-pleasing Summer Berry & Spinach Salad that’s simple to prepare and bursting with color and flavor.

Summer Berry & Spinach Salad

This light and flavorful salad combines the sweetness of berries with crisp spinach and a touch of tangy dressing. It’s perfect for warm weather, easy to make with farmers’ market finds, and even better when shared with friends or family on the patio.

Ingredients:

● 4 cups fresh spinach leaves

● 1 cup sliced strawberries

● 1 cup blueberries

● 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

● 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

● 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

● 1 tablespoon olive oil

● 1 teaspoon honey

● Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and feta cheese in a large bowl.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

4. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if desired.

5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why It’s Great for Seniors

This simple salad is more than a delicious seasonal dish; it’s also a powerhouse of wellness benefits:

● Physical Wellness: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats to support heart and brain health.

● Nutritional Wellness: Made with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients that nourish the body.

● Social Wellness: A great recipe to make together and enjoy during community meals or family gatherings.

● Emotional Wellness: The vibrant colors and fresh flavors offer a sensory experience that can elevate mood and promote enjoyment.

At Melody Living Lake in the Hills, we celebrate the connection between food and well-being. Our senior retirement home residents enjoy daily low-maintenance access to premier chef-prepared meals that are both flavorful and nourishing, but we also love to empower them to get involved in the kitchen. Whether it’s a hands-on seasonal cooking class, a tasting event, or a recipe exchange with friends, culinary experiences bring people together and spark joy.

Come Taste Life at Melody Living

Are you ready to explore a Best-in-Class services lifestyle where wellness, community, and creativity thrive together? At Melody Living Lake in the Hills, our Independent Living residents enjoy an active, inspired environment with opportunities to connect through shared meals, wellness programming, and seasonal events.

Book your personal tour today by calling (847) 851-4000 or visiting our contact page to schedule. Be sure to ask about our Independent Living Immersive Experience, where you can enjoy a complimentary stay and see firsthand what A Life in Harmony™ really feels like. Your Best Life Begins Here!

Come discover how we bring culture, connection, and curiosity to every corner of life, right here at Melody Living Lake in the Hills, where your next chapter is served with a smile and a side of summer freshness.