Summer in British Columbia is a season to savour – long days, fresh flavours, and plenty of reasons to gather around the table. The days are longer, the air is warmer, and our local markets in British Columbia come alive with vibrant, fresh produce. At Lakeside Gardens Seniors Community, we believe summer is the perfect time to embrace the joy of eating well, whether that means trying a new recipe, enjoying a garden-fresh salad, or simply sitting down to a beautifully prepared meal with friends.
If you’re exploring the benefits of a retirement home in Nanaimo, food is one of the many lifestyle perks to consider. At Lakeside Gardens, residents enjoy fresh, daily meals that are both nutritious and delicious, with menus that change with the seasons. Whether you like to cook or just appreciate a good meal, there are plenty of easy ways to enjoy summer’s best flavours. Here are some easy ways to bring fresh flavours to your plate, along with a peek into the seasonal dishes served at your local retirement community in Nanaimo.
What’s in Season in BC This Summer?
From the Okanagan to the Island, British Columbia is bursting with flavour during the summer months. Here are just a few favourites you might find in our kitchens or your local farmers’ market:
- Berries (June–August): strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries
- Peaches & Nectarines (July–August)
- Cherries (June–July)
- Corn on the Cob (late July–September)
- Zucchini & Summer Squash (June–September)
- Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers (July–September)
- Beets, Carrots & Beans (June–October)
These ingredients aren’t just delicious, they’re full of nutrients that support healthy aging, from fibre and vitamins to antioxidants and hydration.
Easy & Enjoyable Meals with a Summer Twist
Looking for some simple seasonal meals you can make in your kitchenette, or suggest to a friend or family member? Here are a few recipes that make the most of BC’s summer bounty:
Berry Breakfast Parfait
Start your morning with a layer of Greek yoghurt, fresh strawberries or blueberries, and a sprinkle of granola. Add a drizzle of honey for sweetness. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm mornings.
Summer Corn & Zucchini Fritters
Grate one zucchini and mix with fresh corn kernels, one egg, a few tablespoons of flour, and chopped herbs. Pan-fry in olive oil until golden brown. Serve with sour cream or a touch of salsa for a savoury snack or side dish.
Peach & Basil Salad
Combine sliced peaches with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a bit of feta cheese. Add torn basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet-savoury salad that’s full of summer flavour.
Grilled Salmon with Garden Vegetables
Inspired by our talented chefs at Lakeside Gardens, try a simple grilled salmon fillet with roasted carrots, beets, or green beans. A little lemon and fresh dill go a long way!
Just Desserts: Berry Trifle
Layer sponge cake or angel food cake with vanilla pudding and BC berries for an easy dessert that’s light but indulgent.
Dining at Lakeside Gardens: Meals Made Fresh, Designed for You
At your local retirement community in Nanaimo, residents enjoy a variety of fresh, chef-prepared meals every day as part of their community services. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- A continental breakfast with your morning newspaper
- Served lunch and dinner with multiple menu choices, so you always find something you enjoy
- Festive menus to celebrate holidays and special events
- The freedom to invite friends or family to join you for a meal (it’s your home, after all!)
Whether you love comforting classics or prefer to try something new, our culinary team is here to make every meal feel like something special.
Want a taste of what’s cooking? Check out our Cooking with VRS guide for sample dishes and chef-created meals from across our communities.
Inspired by the Best: Meet Our VRS Chefs
Across all our communities, VRS chefs take pride in creating restaurant-quality meals from scratch using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. They regularly participate in friendly monthly culinary showdowns, where creativity and care shine through dishes like:
- Prosciutto, fig, and goat cheese salad
- Dijon maple-glazed salmon with grilled polenta and roasted vegetables
- Seared sockeye with strawberry emulsion and wild berry-marinated pineapple
- Pan-seared trout with tomato basil relish and tempura beans
And our chefs don’t just cook, they listen. Resident feedback is an important part of the menu process, whether that’s accommodating dietary needs or recreating beloved family recipes. At Lakeside Gardens, it’s about more than food, it’s about feeling at home.
A Fresh Take on Retirement Living
If you’re thinking about making a move to a retirement home in Nanaimo, know that life at Lakeside Gardens is full of opportunities to eat well, connect with others, and enjoy each season as it comes. With thoughtfully prepared meals every day, we believe good food is one of the best parts of community living.
Want to learn more about our dining experience or come for a tour and stay for lunch? Contact us today to connect with your local retirement community in Nanaimo. We’d love to welcome you to the table.