Here at MorningStar of Hillsboro, we take dining to the next level, even in the summer heat.
Forget excuses like “it’s too hot to cook.” We’ve got the perfect lineup of seasonal dishes that keep you cool, satisfied, and ready to savor the moment.
Because here’s the thing about summer dining, especially in Hillsboro: it’s not about the meal. It’s about the memory. And we’re big on creating those, one bite at a time.
Why Local and Seasonal is Always Better
Eating seasonally is trendy, but it’s also downright tasty.
Imagine biting into a strawberry so sweet, it could rival any Hillsboro farmers market stand. Or slicing into a juicy tomato bursting with flavor that advertises “just picked yesterday.”
Seasonal foods are fresher, more flavorful, and packed with all the nutrients your body loves. And lucky for us, Hillsboro’s got the goods when it comes to summer produce.
Our current seasonal favorites, ones we incorporate into countless fresh, farm-to-fork recipes here at MorningStar, include:
- Berries: Those sun-soaked strawberries, plump raspberries, and tangy blueberries steal the show, whether it’s at breakfast, lunch, or dessert. They’re delicious and full of antioxidants to keep your heart and mind happy.
- Melons: Watermelon and cantaloupe are hydration powerhouses. Sweet, refreshing, and loaded with fiber and Vitamin C? Yes, please.
- Tomatoes: Heirlooms, cherry tomatoes, beefsteak… however you slice them, they’re incredibly versatile. Throw them in a crisp summer salad, layer them on a sandwich, or enjoy them in your favorite caprese platter.
- Cucumbers: Did you know cucumbers are over 95% water? It’s hydration in food form. Plus, they’re crunchy, refreshing, and give your bones a boost with a healthy dose of vitamin K.
Easy-Breezy Summer Meals Served Up Fresh
When the midsummer heat has you running for shady spots, the last thing you want is a dinner that feels heavy. That’s why we prefer light, satisfying dishes that are effortless yet oh-so-delicious.
Some local favorites we serve at our independent living community include:
- Berry Yogurt Parfaits: We layer Oregon berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a treat that’s as photo-op worthy as it is tasty. Pro tip? Pair it with a glass of iced Earl Grey for a relaxing snack on the patio.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: This crisp salad is a Hillsboro classic. Juicy heirloom tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers tossed in a drizzle of olive oil and finished with bursts of fresh feta.
- Grilled Chicken or Salmon Perfection: Marinated to bring out the most impressive local flavors, we grill our mains to smoky perfection. Pair with roasted zucchini or tangy mango salsa, and you’ve got summer on a plate.
Stay Chill and Hydrated (Even When Hillsboro Brings the Heat)
Hydration isn’t just about guzzling water, though it’s smart to keep a bottle handy. Luckily, summer foods are here to lend a helping hand in staying cool and refreshed.
Here’s how we keep hydrated the tasty way at MorningStar of Hillsboro:
- Fruit-Infused Water: Add a splash of flavor to your hydration. Lemon and cucumber slices are a classic, but throw in some Hillsboro blackberries or mint for your own spa-water-ready creation.
- Chilled Soups: Nothing says “refreshing” like a cold cucumber dill soup or a vibrant gazpacho made with local produce. Believe it or not, serving soup in the summer can be a thing, and it’s something you need to try ASAP.
- Hydrating Fruits on Repeat: Watermelon, peaches, grapes… why mess with nature’s perfect summer dessert? Like cucumbers, these fruits pack a punch of hydration in every bite.
Dining That Feels Like Home, But Even Better
Here’s where MorningStar of Hillsboro stands out. Food isn’t just what’s on the table for us. It’s about what happens at the table. It’s the lingering laughs over dessert, the shared stories during BBQ nights, and the simple joy of breaking bread with your neighbors.
