Are you looking for easy recipes and healthy meals that are perfect after gastric bypass surgery? Finding delicious dishes that are also gentle on your new digestive system can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be! This post is dedicated to providing you with simple, homemade cooking ideas, focusing on nutritious purees that are both satisfying and supportive of your post-surgery journey. These quick dinner ideas are perfect for those busy weeknights, and we'll explore some variations to keep your meals interesting and exciting.
Creamy Tomato Soup Puree
This recipe is a fantastic starting point, providing essential vitamins and nutrients in a readily digestible form. It's a great example of how healthy meals can be both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Carefully puree the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender in batches until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Cooking Tips:
- For a smoother puree, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness (use sparingly).
- For a richer tomato flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy Tomato and Carrot Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked, pureed carrots for added sweetness and nutrients.
- Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup: Use roasted red peppers instead of some of the canned tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: Approximately 4g
- Fat: Approximately 6g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g
Simple Chicken and Vegetable Puree
This recipe offers a good source of lean protein and essential vitamins. Remember to always choose lean protein sources to support your post-surgery dietary needs. This recipe is a perfect example of a delicious dish packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- ½ cup cooked carrots, pureed
- ½ cup cooked green beans, pureed
- ¼ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the pureed carrots and green beans and heat through.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and chicken broth. Heat until warmed through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Puree the mixture using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth.
Cooking Tips:
- You can use any combination of cooked vegetables you prefer. Sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and peas all work well.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables with some herbs before pureeing.
These are just two examples of the many delicious and nutritious puree recipes you can enjoy after gastric bypass surgery. Remember to consult your surgeon or dietitian for personalized dietary recommendations. Enjoy your culinary journey!