An outdoor grill with family and friends is one of the joys of summer. This year, instead of preparing old classics, cook up some dishes that promote good eye health. Here are a few of our favorites.
Grilled Foods Great for Eyes
Grilled Orange Peppers
Of all the peppers, orange are best for eye health due to their rich content of the carotenoid zeaxanthin (found in the macula of the eye) along with vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. Grilled, they make a great alternative to meat dishes and are an easy way to encourage kids to eat their veggies. Here is a recipe from Livestrong:
Fire up the grill and wait for it to reach a medium heat. Wash and dry the peppers, cut them in half, and remove the seeds. Use a basting brush to lightly cover both sides in olive oil; then sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Place the slices on your grill and close the lid. Wait 4 to 5 minutes before turning slices over and cooking the opposite side for 3 to 4 minutes. Garnish with basil leaves and serve hot.
Grilled Turkey Burgers
This lean meat contains high levels of zinc, but you can also add slices of orange pepper and green onion for lutein and zeaxanthin, recommends All About Vision. Cook your turkey burgers on a hot grill, allowing 3 to 4 minutes for each side, says Food Network. During the final minute, add a slice of cheese. Serve the burgers with lemon-honey mustard and watercress.
Grilled Tuna Steaks
Cold-water fish, like tuna, contain the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, which protect eyes against age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. Try serving your tuna steaks with a salsa made from 1 cup shredded carrot, ¾ cup chopped mango, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon coriander, and 1 teaspoon cumin, suggested by Taste of Home.
When spending time outdoors, you must wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. Browse Real Kids’ collection to find great shades for your kids.