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3 tips to boost eye health during virtual learning

2020-11-23T17:53:06

(BPT) – Whether students are attending class in person, virtually or a hybrid version of both, there’s one thing everyone has in common: A lot more education is happening digitally. Screens are a valuable tool in education, but they also can have health implications, including stress on the eyes.

Students of all ages are spending more time on computers, tablets and phone screens in general, but COVID-19 has accelerated this use. In recent months, screen time for kids has increased by 500% as virtual learning was introduced and parents continue to work from home. This is having a direct impact on eye health.

Fortunately, there are simple ways families can support eye health and position students for success no matter what school shapes up to be this year:

Take breaks and set limits

Have a family meeting to get everyone on board for following the 20/20/20 rule. For every 20 minutes you are using a screen you need to take at least 20 seconds to look away at something that is at least 20 feet away. This allows the eyes to rest and refocus, helping to prevent strain. If everyone is working at the same time in the house, you could ring a bell or play a song at these intervals as an eye rest reminder.

In addition to these mini breaks, take larger breaks to more thoroughly relieve eyes. This is especially important for children’s eyes that are still growing. For every hour working or playing on a screen, take a 5- to 10-minute break to leave the area and let the eyes rest. Perhaps take a walk or grab a snack before returning to studies.

Wear blue light blocking glasses

The blue light emitted from digital screens can be particularly harsh on eyes, plus it can have a negative impact on sleep patterns. The brain registers blue light as daytime, so it’s especially important to be aware of screen time before bed. Shut off screens at least an hour before bedtime to ensure kids fall to sleep efficiently and get deep, restorative rest.

Beyond limiting evening screen time, you can help filter harsh lights with blue light blocking glasses. These are sometimes called computer glasses because they have no prescription but look like normal glasses. Strive to have students always wear these glasses while using a device. If that’s not possible, research blue light blocking software and apps.

Eat for eye health

What you eat can help support eye health by providing the body essential nutrients to support vision like lutein. Lutein is a powerful antioxidant that plays a key role in shielding eyes from damaging light. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares nutritious foods that can help boost eye health amid virtual learning:

Green leafy vegetables like kale or spinach are high in lutein content, as are Eggland’s Best eggs, which contain 38% more lutein compared to ordinary eggs. Lutein found in eggs is also more easily absorbed by the body than leafy greens. Just remember to eat the whole egg since lutein is found in the egg yolk.

In addition to lutein, Eggland’s Best eggs contain a variety of important micronutrients that support immune health. With six times more vitamin D, 10 times more vitamin E, and more than double the omega-3s and vitamin B12 compared to ordinary eggs, Eggland’s Best eggs are a perfect ingredient to optimize immune health and incorporate into your family’s diet as you prepare for back to school.

Try new recipes that contain these ingredients and others that help support vision wellness. This is a delicious option you can try at home:

Spinach, Brie and Bacon Mini Quiche

Ingredients

5 Eggland’s Best eggs

1/4 cup fat-free half & half

1/4 cup skim milk

1/2 cup brie cheese, shredded

1/4 small onion, shredded

1 cup fresh spinach leaves, washed & diced

4 slices turkey bacon, cooked & crumbled

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 refrigerated pie crusts

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F; spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

In a medium-size bowl, whisk eggs together with milk, half & half, salt and pepper; set aside.

In a small skillet over medium heat, cook turkey bacon slices until crispy; drain, cool, and dice or crumble into small pieces and set aside.

Wash spinach well and pat dry; chop into small pieces and set aside.

Using a handheld grater, grate onion and brie cheese.

Add spinach, bacon, onion and brie to egg mixture and blend well.

Roll out refrigerated pie crust and cut in 3-inch circles; line muffin tins with pie crust.

Spoon egg mixture into each muffin cup, filling 3/4 full; place in oven and cook for 25 minutes or until eggs are set.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Note: You may have extra egg mixture depending on how high the muffin tins are filled. Repeat steps above to create more quiches to finish off egg mixture.


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3 eco-friendly projects to boost home health during pandemic

2020-11-23T18:00:51

(BPT) – How healthy is your house? After spending more time at home due to quarantine and social distancing, many homeowners are asking themselves this question.

This has inspired an increase in home improvements that go beyond aesthetic enhancements. Homeowners want eco-friendly upgrades that improve indoor environmental quality (IEQ), which means improvements that support the health and wellness of the people who live in the home.

If you’re curious how to improve your home’s IEQ, here are three key projects to consider:

1. Hydronic radiant heating systems

Conventional forced-air systems push heated air through ductwork in the walls and ceilings. There are many drawbacks to this type of system. First, they are inefficient because hot air blows out vents and rises rather than staying lower to keep people comfortable. Second, it circulates dust, allergens and pollutants that lower the indoor air quality. Third, they can be noisy, turning on and off all day.

For a healthier home, consider hydronic radiant heating. This technology works by warming water at a heat source and circulating it through piping made of a special polymer called PEX that is installed beneath the floor. For example, Uponor Fast Trak is a simple-to-install, knobbed-mat system that adheres to a concrete slab for quick radiant tubing installation in any area of the home. Learn more at www.uponor-usa.com/radiant.

A hydronic radiant system can dramatically improve a home’s IEQ. There is no fan to circulate dust, pollen and odors, so you can breathe easier. Because it’s in the floor, it keeps the heat low — where you and your family actually live — without hot and cold spots. You can heat in zones to save money, plus, the system is near-silent.

2. Natural light and daylighting

Beautiful sun shining through a window is a welcome sight on any day. Natural light increases the comfort of a home and can have a positive psychological impact on the people who spend time there. That’s why, when choosing home-improvement projects, use daylighting strategies to improve IEQ.

Daylighting is a method you can use to welcome more natural light into your home. There are many improvements that support daylighting. Adding windows strategically to brighten spaces throughout the day is a smart first step. Adding skylights to bring in light where traditional windows are not possible or logical, such as in a bathroom, also supports daylighting.

Daylighting can be controlled for comfort and privacy with shades, blinds and plants. In spaces where windows and skylights are not possible, adding reflective surfaces to the room design can provide internal lighting by maximizing the sunlight. For example, glossy tile or mirrors throughout a room can help brighten the space and align with daylighting goals.

3. Clean air and proper ventilation

Airflow is an important part of any healthy home, helping to remove contaminants and bring in fresh air. Proper ventilation prevents mold and mildew growth, removes common pollutants from appliances and other household items, improves indoor air quality and boosts IEQ.

To improve your home’s ventilation, always open windows and skylights when weather and conditions allow to let in fresh air. Remember to turn on ventilation fans when bathing or showering to remove excess humidity. In addition, use fans in the kitchen to remove smoke and heat while cooking. Finally, maintain filters on items such as air purifiers, humidifiers and your HVAC system.

If you have a radiant heat system, continue to use it, as it helps to eliminate the circulation of microscopic particles that can spread germs and trigger allergy symptoms. Considering Americans spend on average 90% of their time indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, prioritizing indoor air quality is essential.

IEQ is getting increased attention, as people look to improve their homes and make them healthy for their families, while also boosting their bottom line at resale. These three key areas will help you create a space centered on health and well-being. For more information, visit www.uponor-usa.com.


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5 expert tips to save money at the grocery store

2020-11-23T18:12:49

(BPT) – Parents are struggling to provide for their families during these uncertain and challenging times. A recent survey conducted by the Brookings Institution finds 1 in 5 young children in the U.S. are not getting enough food during this pandemic, and food insecurity is rising at an unprecedented rate.

Financial expert and author Tonya Rapley has a few savvy tips to help families tweak their grocery-store routine to reduce spending:

1. Cut out convenience costs

When shopping for foods such as meat, fruits and vegetables, you pay a premium for pre-cut and specialty items. Although it can seem tempting to grab pre-cut ingredients like chicken breasts to incorporate into family meals, purchasing the whole chicken can offer multiple meal opportunities while reducing costs. Same goes for produce, such as chopped fruit, trimmed veggies and prepacked foods like salads and sandwiches. You’ll save a lot and likely get more food by doing the prep work at home.

2. Try a flexitarian diet

Meat is often the most expensive item in a family’s shopping cart. By experimenting with a flexitarian diet, you can cut down on grocery spending and instill healthy eating habits in children. By making a meatless meal a couple of times a week, parents can introduce a variety of foods and ingredients to their kids that will expand their taste preferences. You can start simple by skipping meatballs on spaghetti night or using beans instead of meat on taco Tuesday. Then get kids involved in trying new recipes together and expand your meatless dish collection.

3. Keep your head up, then down when scanning shelves

The most popularly marketed foods are stored at eye level and typically have higher prices than less-known name brands or store-brand alternatives. Your best bet is to look at the higher and lower shelves, as that’s where the most cost-effective products are located. A little effort to look beyond eye level will reward you with a lower grocery bill.

4. Choose store-brand infant formula

For parents with infants at home, switching to store-brand infant formula can cut costs by up to 50%, resulting in $900 in annual savings. Store-brand infant formulas offer the same complete nutrition and meet the same FDA standards as big-name brands. Faced with financial stress, some parents may be tempted to make homemade formula or add extra water to stretch formula to save money. These actions can have a harmful effect on baby, so keep an eye out for a store-brand alternative at the grocery store instead to ensure your infant is obtaining the essential nutrients he or she needs to grow and stay healthy. Learn more at www.storebrandformula.com.

5. Use coupons and shop the sales

When you enter a store, pick up the weekly flyer if one is available and flip through the coupons and sales. This can help you save money on the items on your list. As you shop, watch for shelf advertisements for sales or bargains like buy one get one free (BOGO). Keep in mind, grocery stores often advertise savings based on multiple purchases. For example, save $3 on two. Unless it specifically states you must buy two to earn the savings, you can still save money when you just buy one item.

Smart grocery shopping can help you save during the pandemic and at any time. Your family will get the food they enjoy, and you get to stay on budget, perhaps with a little extra to put into savings.


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The Importance of Targeted Treatments for Rare Forms of Lung Cancer [Infographic]

2020-11-23T06:01:00

(BPT) – November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month — a critical moment to reflect on the progress made for patients living with this disease. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers, impacting hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. every year and appearing in many different forms. Check out the graphic below to learn more about a rare form of lung cancer called ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and a potential treatment option. Visit https://www.takedaoncology.com/patients/disease-education/ for more information.


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Embracing pet care for life

2020-11-23T13:01:00

(BPT) – While many people have found comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic by bringing home new dogs for companionship, a recent survey* found 73% of those who became dog owners for the first time are considering re-homing their dog once the pandemic ends. This decision is likely driven by a lack of knowledge of what it takes to care for a pet, as one in four (25%) said they don’t have enough information to properly care for their dog. With this in mind, below are some expert tips from Merck Animal Health to help dog owners embrace pet care for life.

1. Expel Excess Energy

Walking your dog provides valuable exercise and relief from cabin fever.

Over one-third of pandemic puppy owners were surprised by the attention they require. Additionally, one-third of first-time owners who are considering re-homing cited their dog’s energy as a challenge. Sound familiar? Try short, frequent walks. Sure Petcare’s Animo® tracker can also monitor their activity and help you adjust as needed.

2. Protect Puppies from Parasites

Start your puppy on a flea and tick preventative to ensure they are protected from parasites and the diseases they can transmit.

Nearly one-third (29%) of pandemic puppy owners were surprised to learn how much parasites can impact their dog’s health. Puppies eight weeks of age or older can use BRAVECTO® 1-MONTH Chews to protect them from fleas and ticks until six months of age.

3. Simplify Parasite Prevention for Adult Dogs

Using a long-lasting parasite preventative takes monthly dosing off of your to-do list.

One-third (35%) of first-time dog owners said giving their dog flea and tick preventative treatments has been an unexpected challenge. Keep it simple by transitioning to BRAVECTO® (fluralaner) Chews once they are six months or older — one dose provides 12 weeks of flea and tick protection.

4. Maintain a Preventative Care Schedule

Work with your veterinary team to protect your dog from preventable diseases.

Only slightly more than half (57%) of people who got their first dog during the pandemic consider themselves knowledgeable about preventative care. Preventative vet visits ensure your dog gets the vaccines needed to protect them from serious diseases. Ask your veterinarian about a preventative care schedule at your next appointment.

5. Recognize Your Veterinary Team is A Valuable Resource

Asking your veterinary team your dog health questions ensures you will get trustworthy advice.

More than half of pandemic dog owners wish taking care of their dog’s health was easier (57%) and less time-consuming (56%). Your veterinary team can be a great resource for advice on how to simplify pet care, including vet nurses. Write down questions to ask them at your next appointment.

6. Take Advantage of Telemedicine

Scheduling virtual appointments can give your dog the care they need from the comfort of your home.

Nearly one-fourth (22%) of pandemic first-time dog owners and one-third (27%) of pre-pandemic dog owners said they have encountered challenges when scheduling veterinary appointments. If scheduling an in-person or curbside appointment has been difficult, ask your veterinary team about telemedicine and if your pet’s appointment can be done virtually.

7. Be Patient & Stay Positive!

Dogs provide unconditional love and companionship.

Regardless of the challenges mentioned above, 77% of dog owners agreed their dog has helped them get through the pandemic, so stay positive! As you spend more time together and learn more about pet care, you’ll likely feel more confident about keeping your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.

*Data on file.


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Prioritize Your Health and Wellness in 2021: A Checklist to Assess Your Healthcare Needs

2020-11-23T11:31:00

(BPT) – As 2020 draws to a close, you are likely reflecting on the events of the past year and looking ahead to 2021. As we approach the end of the year and you are setting goals for yourself for 2021, now is a great time to do a thorough review of your overall health and well-being and consider any adjustments you may want to make going into the new year. Your health and wellness should be a priority, and you can start 2021 knowing you have fully assessed your healthcare needs.

To make it easier, here is an end-of-year checklist to review. Consider these healthcare-related items as you take charge of your personal health and wellness going into the new year.

Schedule Annual Exams

It is important to be consistent with yearly health check-ups. Consider scheduling a visit to your primary care physician for an annual exam and routine blood and lab work to assess the overall state of your health. Make sure that you stay up on other annual health check-ups, including hearing, eye, and dental exams.

Additionally, depending on your age and family medical history, check with your physician about whether you should schedule preventative screenings for cancer, such as a mammogram, colonoscopy, prostate check, or any other medical conditions you may be at risk of developing — including high blood pressure, diabetes, or stroke.

Evaluate Insurance Options

Health insurance plans and coverage change from year to year, so it is important to take some time to review your coverage and select options that meet your specific needs, as well as the needs of your loved ones. Also consider long-term and short-term care options as you plan for retirement and the future.

Review Savings and Discount Programs

There are health-related savings and discounts available to Americans over 50 and their families. Review savings and discount programs for health-related expenses such as prescriptions, eyeglasses, hearing aids and more. AARP Member Benefits is a resource with information on health discounts available to AARP members and their families, including dental, hearing and vision care.

Maximize Health Savings

If you have a health savings account, review your balance to see if you have funds to spend on qualified medical expenses that need to be used by the end of the year. These qualified medical expenses can include office visit co-payments, dental expenses, vision care, prescription drugs and more for yourself, your spouse or eligible dependents.

Take Action to Stay Healthy

Consult your primary care physician about vaccinations and immunizations that are right for you. For many older adults, you will want to ask your physician about vaccinations for influenza, pneumonia, shingles and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis).

As we approach the new year, use this this health checklist to prioritize your health and wellness in 2021. You can start the new year with peace of mind knowing that you are being proactive about your health. If you are an AARP member, you can get more information about your healthcare options by visiting https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/.


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Home for the Holidays? Re-establish Your Home Safety Traditions

2020-11-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – Oh, there’s no place like home for the holidays … at least for the 60% of Americans who claim they will be staying put this holiday season. While that may not seem different than the past year of working and learning from home, for many, the holiday break will bring a renewed opportunity to focus on family, create new traditions and re-establish critical household rules, specifically around safety.

This year, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, reports show an increase in calls to poison control centers for exposures to hygiene and cleaning products. With an ongoing health crisis creating a greater need to clean and disinfect, and the holidays creating more chaos in American households, the American Cleaning Institute reminds everyone that safe handling and storage practices are more important than ever.

Reclaim Home Safety with these Holiday Helpers

Hiding Gifts Out of Sight? The Same Goes for Cleaning Products and Liquid Laundry Packets

We all take time to hide gifts out of sight of our loved ones, and the same idea applies to keeping household cleaning items away from little ones. Items like cleaning products and liquid laundry packets should all be stored up high and out of sight to avoid accidents with curious kids. The best place to store these products is in their original packaging in an overhead cabinet secured with a child safety lock. If you don’t have a cabinet available, you can place the product in a larger bin and store it up high where those at risk won’t be able to see or access it. Visit packetsup.com to learn more about safe storage.

Deck Your Halls with Décor, not Detergent

When it comes to putting up your decorations this year, stick to holiday décor. While Pinterest-worthy laundry room photos may be tempting to display liquid laundry packets in clear containers, it sends a wrong and dangerous message to curious children. Liquid laundry packets packaging is engineered and designed with the function to deter children from accessing the product. Additionally, the labels have important safety information should an accident happen, so it’s important to treat the packaging as part of the product purchase and a critical investment.

From Store to Storage This Holiday and Beyond

Next time you head out to the store to stock up on groceries, batteries for new toys, cold medicine or liquid laundry packets, remember to put these household items up and out of sight and reach as soon as you get home. When shopping, have these items bagged separately so they are ready to be swiftly put away once arriving home.

Santa’s Helpers Need to Learn Safety Practices

Does a little one in your home need a few extra points to make it on to Santa’s ‘nice list’? Staying home for the holidays is the perfect opportunity to get older children involved in chores and teach them about safety practices around cleaning products and cleaners. Here are a few ways to safely get your kids involved in chores without them handling products like disinfectants or liquid laundry packets:

    • Teach them to sort and put away laundry after you’ve run the washer and dryer.
    • Have them help clear the table and bring their dishes to the sink before you run the dishwasher.
    • Before you disinfect a surface, allow them to wipe down with soap and water.

As we head into the holiday season, take the time to make proper cleaning product use and storage a habit. For more safe storage tips and educational activities to complete with your child, visit PacketsUp.com.


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Real Christmas trees can help end a difficult year with good memories [Infographic]

2020-11-23T14:01:00

(BPT) – To help shoppers find a location that fits their shopping preferences, the Christmas Tree Promotion Board is debuting a new zip code-based retailer locator at ItsChristmasKeepitReal.com. An interactive map and search filters allow users to narrow the field by location and retail type, including choose and cut farms, seasonal lots, garden centers, general retailers and home improvement stores.

The CTPB has also unveiled a new species guide on its website. Featuring 20 species of real Christmas trees, it highlights the unique characteristics of each and helps shoppers entertain options they may not have previously considered as they prepare to bring some fresh Christmas cheer into their home.


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Holiday hosting: Putting new twists on mealtime traditions

2020-11-23T10:43:00

(BPT) – Fewer people around the table, virtual meal sharing and car trips that take you no farther than the local grocery store are making holiday gatherings look a bit different this year. As a holiday host and master chef in your home kitchen there are still plenty of ways to usher in new traditions and show-off your culinary skills by adding some new twists to the classic holiday menu.

Whether cooking for family or a small group of friends, consider these tips to help create memorable meals that will add to everyone’s holiday cheer:

Serving up tasty, yet simple, appetizers

Appetizers are the perfect start to whet appetites while a delicious holiday meal is cooking in the oven. Keep appetizers simple — think finger-foods and one-bite indulgences — and have enough variety to keep everyone pleased. A charcuterie board can be easily assembled with cheeses, nuts, meats or fruits and you can add a compound butter in a ramekin or two by combining a dairy free, plant butter with herbs or spices mixed in, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Then offer a few hot and cold appetizers, like stuffed mushroom bites or mini avocado bruschetta toasties.

Add more plant-based food options to the menu

Whether it’s because of a dietary or lifestyle choice, allergies or just personal preference, more and more people are choosing to eat plant-based foods so make sure you include some options on your holiday menu. If you want to put a plant-based spin on that familiar buttery recipe that’s been handed down through generations, while still meeting the expectations of your family’s taste buds, use new Flora™ Plant Butter in the dish. With a rich and creamy flavor, this vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free and non-GMO plant butter is made with plant-based oils, uses no artificial flavors or preservatives, and can be swapped with butter 1:1 in baking and cooking. It’s also wrapped in paper packaging rather than plastic, making it a food choice that’s also more environmentally responsible for the planet.

‘Tis the season to put a twist on the classics

Sometimes holiday traditions are meant to be bent, and you can start with your menu. Try spicing up traditional recipes with seasonal-inspired ingredients or herbs, but with a twist. For instance, a side of baked sweet potatoes can be delicious but switching up this classic with sweet potato gratin with cayenne seasoning elevates your menu and adds a dish with the perfect mix of heat and sweet. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavor pairings, moving out of your comfort zone to put your own unique spin on holiday dishes.

Inspired to take your holiday recipes to the next level? Try this plant-based dessert recipe for a twist on traditional apple pie. It’s the perfect ending to any holiday meal!

Apple Pie in a Jar

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the apple filling:

4 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 lemon, juiced, 1 pinch salt, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For pecan streusel:

1 cup pecan halves, coarsely chopped, 2/3 cup lightly packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 cup Flora™ Plant Butter Salted, melted

Optional toppings:

Vegan caramel sauce, vegan vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

Apple filling:

1. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.

2. Let the mixture sit for 20 minutes to allow the apples to release their natural juices.

Pecan streusel topping:

1. Mix chopped pecan halves, light brown sugar, all purpose flour, cinnamon and oats together.

2. Slowly pour melted Flora™ Plant Butter into the bowl and stir until all ingredients are combined. Set aside.

Assembly and baking instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Place six, 8-ounce oven-proof jars onto a baking sheet.

2. Scoop a heaping tablespoonful of pecan streusel into each jar. Then add the apple filling to jars, followed by another tablespoonful of pecan streusel.

3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until apple filling is bubbling.

4. Serve with a vegan vanilla ice cream and a vegan caramel sauce, if desired.


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Don’t miss these top seafood trends you can easily try at home

2020-11-23T11:01:00

(BPT) – Are you spending more time cooking at home due to quarantine and social distancing? Perhaps you’re indulging your inner foodie by trying new foods and recipes. These days, many people are flexing their culinary muscles and testing out different trends as a way to brighten up their every day.

For your next meal or snack, consider adding these must-try seafood styles and flavors to your menu.

Everything bagel seasoning seafood

It all started with the bagel, and now the popular seasoning that mixes poppy seeds, sesame seeds, onion and garlic is being used in new and inventive ways. You can buy the seasoning to sprinkle on favorite dishes, but perhaps where these flavors really shine is when they’re combined with delicious seafood such as Everything Bagel Butterfly Shrimp from SeaPak.

These crispy butterfly shrimp are covered in everything bagel seasoning and paired with a cool cream cheese chive dipping sauce. It’s specially designed for conventional ovens, toaster ovens and air fryers, so you get to indulge in a delicious new food craze without extensive kitchen time. Whether it’s a savory snack or a scrumptious main course, Everything Bagel Butterfly Shrimp are versatile and delicious.

Creative “sea-cuterie” boards

Traditional charcuterie boards have been around for centuries, featuring classics such as cured meats, olives, pickled vegetables, crackers and nuts. However, being at home has inspired people to take their charcuterie to new heights and many seafood lovers are designing platters around their favorite protein: seafood.

Known by some as “sea-cuterie,” this new take on the classic shared appetizer can feature shrimp and cocktail sauce for dipping or smoked salmon and herbed cream cheese with sliced baguettes for a classy date night. You can take your taste buds on a trip to the Mediterranean by complementing a spread of olives, artichokes and cherry tomatoes with deliciously salty sardines or anchovies — or even a smoked fish dip. It’s tons of fun to customize your offering in unconventional ways — particularly when it involves adding seafood to the mix.

Baked seafood dishes

Want a satisfying crowd-pleaser for dinner? Baked seafood dishes are surging in popularity and are easy to make at home. Thanks to their low-maintenance nature, casseroles, lasagnas and oven-to-table recipes are getting the seafood treatment from home cooks everywhere.

Many types of fish bake well and are incredible paired with breading or spices and sauce. Salmon with ginger? Stuffed sole with breadcrumbs? Seafood and pasta are an unforgettable dynamic duo.

Baked seafood recipes, like this fan-favorite parmesan shrimp ziti bake, are typically simple, so why not make extra? Leftovers tend to reheat well, and one baking session can provide you with lunches all week long.

Seafood remixes

We’ve all had to get a little more creative in the kitchen this year. For a twist on the traditional, try swapping the protein in your favorite dishes for salmon, shrimp or your favorite kind of seafood.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can recreate an entire land-based dish by reimagining it. Tired: Bacon-wrapped sausage bites. Wired: Seaweed-wrapped cod nuggets.

What sea-inspired cuisine will you whip up tonight?