Life can feel busy, even in retirement. There are appointments, commitments, family, volunteering, exercise and the endless list of things that need doing. That’s why I’ve come to appreciate the simple pleasure of slowing down in the kitchen.
Mike and I both enjoy cooking and taking time to make nutritious and delicious meals.
Last night, I wasn’t sure what to make and when if feel this way, I check out the pantry and freezer for inspiration. My son-in-law had given me a giant lemon, it looked as big as an orange! I decided to make a Lemon Prawn Risotto with cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, and it reminded me that cooking can be just as nourishing for the mind as it is for the body.
Risotto has a reputation for being time-consuming, but I discovered something unexpected. Standing at the stove, gradually adding warm stock and gently stirring the rice, became incredibly relaxing. There was no rushing, no multitasking, just the rhythmic motion of stirring and watching the rice slowly become creamy. It almost felt like a form of mindfulness.
After a fairly busy day which included a planning meeting for our Probus 50th Anniversary in Australia celebrations, so my mind was spinning when I arrived home, so time in the kitchen creating a delicious meal was just what I needed.
In a world where we’re often encouraged to do everything quickly, there’s something comforting about preparing a meal that asks us to slow down.
Why I Love This Recipe
Not only is it delicious, but it’s packed with ingredients that support healthy ageing.
- Prawns provide high-quality protein, helping to maintain muscle strength as we age.
- Baby spinach adds iron, folate and vitamins A and C.
- Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, including lycopene.
- Lemon brightens the dish while adding vitamin C.
- Parmesan contributes calcium, which supports bone health.
It’s a balanced meal that’s satisfying without feeling heavy and is perfect after a strength workout, a long walk or simply when you’re craving something comforting.
Lemon Prawn Risotto for Two
Ingredients
- ¾ cup Arborio rice
- 200g raw green prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ small onion or 1 shallot, finely diced
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500–600ml hot vegetable stock
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 generous handfuls baby spinach
- Zest of ½ lemon
- Juice of ¼–½ lemon
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method
- Heat the vegetable stock and keep it warm.
- Cook the onion in the olive oil and half the butter until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for two minutes.
- Add the wine, if using, and allow it to absorb.
- Gradually add the hot stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and tender.
- Add the cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Meanwhile, cook the prawns in a separate pan for 1½–2 minutes on each side until just pink.
- Stir the spinach through the risotto until wilted.
- Remove from the heat and stir through the remaining butter, Parmesan, lemon zest and lemon juice.
- Gently fold in the prawns, sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.
More Than Just Dinner
As I’ve grown older, I’ve realised that healthy ageing isn’t only about eating well or exercising regularly. It’s also about creating moments that help us slow down and appreciate everyday life.
Whether it’s tending the garden, reading a good book, enjoying a morning walk or simply stirring a pot of risotto, these small rituals bring a sense of calm and contentment.
Sometimes the best form of self-care isn’t another task on the to-do list. Sometimes it’s simply giving yourself permission to slow down.
I’d love to know—what everyday activity helps you unwind? Is it cooking, gardening, knitting, walking or perhaps enjoying a quiet cup of tea?
Share your favourite way to slow down in the comments. We can all inspire each other to find more moments of calm as we continue living life in full bloom.
Until next time…..
Women Living Well After 50
Living Life Your Way
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