As part of our Well-Being Thinktank 2025 dinner menu, we partnered with Chef Anna Tapia and our REAL Food Ambassador, Liz Oba Killinger to create a culinary experience focused on supporting brain health through food. This special menu was designed to demonstrate how thoughtfully prepared meals using whole, nutrient-rich ingredients can nourish both body and mind—especially for older adults.
Grab Your FREE Brain Health Recipe Book
We’re excited to share the recipes from those meals in our Well-Being Thinktank Recipe Book, so you can enjoy these brain-boosting dishes at home.
Each recipe features ingredients backed by nutrition research for their potential to support cognitive function, memory, and mood. Here’s a preview of what’s inside:
Miso Mushroom Skewers
Mushrooms contain ergothioneine and antioxidants that may protect brain cells from oxidative stress. Olive oil adds monounsaturated fats that can support brain cell integrity. These skewers are marinated overnight with garlic, herbs, miso, and sherry vinegar for a deep, satisfying flavor.
Grilled & Raw Kale Salad
Kale is rich in vitamin K and lutein, which may help slow cognitive decline. Sunflower seeds and cranberries contribute vitamin E and polyphenols that can support brain health. This salad balances grilled and raw textures with a goat cheese vinaigrette.
Sweet & Sour Carrots
Carrots are high in beta carotene, which may support brain cell communication. Greek yogurt adds probiotics that can benefit the gut-brain axis. Topped with savory granola, coconut, and toasted seeds, this dish is as nourishing as it is beautiful.
Pasta Puttanesca
Anchovies and olive oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can support memory and reduce inflammation. This Mediterranean classic is loaded with tomatoes, olives, capers, and herbs.
Steak Arugula Salad
Iron from steak may support oxygen delivery to the brain. Arugula and white beans offer antioxidants and fiber that can promote brain and gut health. Finished with Parmesan and a lemon-sherry vinaigrette, this salad is both hearty and refreshing.
Citrus Olive Oil Cake
Olive oil and almonds contain healthy fats and vitamin E, which may help protect brain cells. Citrus adds flavonoids that can support cognitive function. Glazed with orange juice and maple syrup, this cake is a wholesome way to end any meal.
REAL Food for Brain Health
These recipes were crafted to show how REAL food, raised, grown, caught, and harvested with care, can be a powerful tool in supporting brain health. We hope you enjoy making them at home and sharing them with those you care about.
At Thomas Cuisine, we believe every meal is an opportunity to make a difference. Our chefs and registered dietitians collaborate to develop menus that support wellness goals like brain health, whether in senior living communities, healthcare settings, schools, or beyond. If you’re ready to bring nourishing, scratch-made meals with purpose to your organization, connect with us today. Let’s create something meaningful together.
