Soft food with protein is the third phase of the post-bariatric surgery diet. This phase follows the clear liquid and puree phase and allows patients to consume more solid food, as long as it can be easily mashed.
If you are looking to expand your meal options for better nutrition, knowing how to prepare soft food with protein can be helpful for any meal of the day, whether it be breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, making your own meals at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that you’re meeting your nutritional needs without sacrificing taste or variety.
To help you with this new transition, here are some protein-rich soft food recipes you can easily prepare in your kitchen any time of the day!
1. Creamy Cauliflower Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- cauliflower
- broccoli
- olive oil
- onion
- nutmeg
- cayenne pepper (optional)
- dry mustard
- chicken or vegetable broth
- carrots
- shredded cheddar cheese
This warm and comforting creamy cauliflower broccoli cheese soup is a delicious option for cold or rainy days. Packed with nutrients, this soup is a great source of protein, which can aid in post-surgery recovery. Plus, it’s fairly easy to make, making it a convenient choice for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty meal.
Another good thing about this soup is that it’s low in carbs, fats, and calories, aiding you to lose weight more effectively. Instead of using flour, cornstarch, and cream to make the soup thick, the cauliflower’s natural thickening properties are enough to do the trick.
2. Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
- skinless chicken breasts with bones
- chicken broth
- mushroom gravy mix
This chicken with gravy recipe is very easy to make and perfect if you don’t have much time to cook every day. Simply place chicken breasts in a crockpot or slow cooker with chicken broth and let it cook for hours the day before.
Once the chicken reaches your desired tenderness, you can start working on the gravy. Using a gravy mix makes the process quick and easy, but for a richer taste, you can also make the gravy from scratch using the chicken broth from the crockpot.
Moreover, you can serve this recipe alongside mashed potatoes for added variety and a more delicious, hearty meal.
3. Spinach Omelet
Ingredients
- spinach leaves
- eggs
- skimmed milk
- salt
- olive oil
- parmesan cheese
- garlic (optional)
- chili flakes (optional)
A weight loss diet cannot be complete without an egg recipe. Rich in protein, this is probably the easiest recipe on the list that can be eaten every day because why not? Who can’t say no to eggs anyway?
Eggs are very versatile and easy to prepare. In particular, the spinach omelet is not just quick to make, but also nutritious that’s perfect for any meal of the day. This dish offers many health benefits, including aiding in weight loss and being a rich source of protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin A.
For a lighter and fluffier omelet, try adding a small amount of milk to the egg mixture, taking care not to over-whisk. As the eggs begin to set, add in the spinach and cheese. Serve the omelet on a platter and bon appetit!
4. Tuna Salad With Egg
Ingredients
- boiled eggs
- tuna
- onion
- chives
- Greek yogurt
- Dijon mustard
- sriracha
- smoked paprika
- salt and pepper
Looking for a quick and easy lunch option? Consider making a delicious and protein-packed tuna salad with egg. This flavorful dish can be enjoyed as a spread on bread or wrapped in a healthy green vegetable. It’s the perfect option when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying and nutritious.
To prepare this recipe, start by boiling 8 eggs (or fewer, depending on the desired serving size). Once the eggs are boiled, slice them into smaller pieces or mash them together with the tuna for a softer texture that is easier to digest.
For a healthier option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and mix all the ingredients together. Finally, season the salad and store the leftovers in the fridge for later consumption.
5. Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
- milk
- chia seeds
- chocolate protein powder
- banana
- vanilla
While sweets and weight loss are typically on the opposite spectrum, completely abstaining from sweets is also not recommended. Therefore, it is still possible to indulge in desserts occasionally. A guilt-free treat worth trying is the chocolate banana chia seed pudding.
For optimal digestion, it’s important to soak the chia seeds for a minimum of 8 hours when preparing this recipe. Adding mashed banana to the pudding may be the cherry on top as it provides a delicious richness that complements the chocolate.
Before consuming this soft dish, it’s important to consult with your doctor to ensure it’s safe and won’t interfere with your recovery process.
Conclusion
The soft food phase after bariatric surgery can be a challenging transition, but it doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. With the right recipes and ingredients, you can still enjoy delicious and protein-rich meals that will aid in your recovery and overall health.
By preparing your own meals at home, you have control over your nutrition and can create a variety of dishes that fit your dietary needs. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with different soft food recipes and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.