Senior Event Demonstrates Cooking for One

Popcorn is not a main dish and cereal is not a balanced meal. Yet too many single seniors turn to these easy options instead of facing the kitchen alone.

“Cooking for One,” a demonstration set for 1-3 p.m. May 22 at the Grand Avenue Community Center, 4211 Grand Ave., Western Springs, will show seniors that cooking for one can be simple and affordable. The workshop is part of Celebrating Seniors Week (May 18-22) and is presented by the Western Springs/Indian Head Park/Hinsdale/Burr Ridge Community Action Team of Aging Well.

Peggy Balboa, dietitian for Mariano’s, will demonstrate how to make three delicious entrees from a single rotisserie chicken. Attendees will sample the dishes and go home with the recipes and nutritional information.

“Peggy will show us that cooking for one can be simple, affordable, and most importantly, nutritious,” said Mike Doepke, co-leader of the Aging Well team and co-owner of Home Helpers of Hinsdale.

Following Balboa’s demonstration, sous chef Oscar Lacson of King-Bruwaert in Burr Ridge will treat the audience to a simple dessert demonstration – with samples, of course.

Knowing how to cook for yourself begins with knowing what to put in the pantry. Balboa will follow her presentation with an invitation to register for a tour of the Western Springs grocery store, where she will share other ideas for eating right on your own.

“Cooking for One” is part of Celebrating Seniors Week – a weeklong series of activities and events to recognize and support area seniors.

Space is limited to 125 seniors and their caregivers. Please RSVP by calling Mic Cagney at (708) 246-3299 or Bonnie Kohout at (630) 230-9521.