Gastroparesis, a condition characterized by delayed gastric emptying, can make mealtime a challenge. For those living with this condition, it’s essential to choose recipes that are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious recipes specifically designed for gastroparesis sufferers. From creamy soups to soft-scrambled eggs and blended desserts, these recipes are perfect for sensitive stomachs.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast option or a soothing lunch idea, our collection of gastroparesis-friendly recipes has got you covered. Each dish is carefully crafted to be gentle on the digestive system, using ingredients that are easy to digest and minimizing any potential irritants. So, let’s dive in and explore these 20 tasty and nutritious recipes that will help make mealtime a breeze for those with gastroparesis.
Soft Scrambled Eggs with Cream Cheese
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, indulgent twist on traditional scrambled eggs. This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the velvety texture of soft-scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium non-stick skillet, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Crack in the eggs and cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
3. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into small curds. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are almost cooked through.
4. Stir in the softened cream cheese until well combined and melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped herbs or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Blended Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe yields a smooth and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. Roasted butternut squash adds natural sweetness, while onions and garlic provide depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until flesh is tender.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted squash, onion, garlic, and broth. Blend until smooth.
5. Return the mixture to a pot, add heavy cream or half-and-half, and heat over low until warmed through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Coconut Milk
This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional mashed sweet potatoes, adding the richness of coconut milk and a hint of tropical flavor. Perfect as a side dish or a base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the roasted sweet potatoes and return them to the bowl.
4. Add the coconut milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pureed Carrot and Ginger Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day. The natural sweetness of carrots pairs perfectly with the spicy warmth of ginger, making it a delightful and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and ginger in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
4. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Oatmeal with Banana
Start your day off right with this creamy and comforting oatmeal dish, infused with the natural sweetness of banana. This slow-cooked recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a warm and filling breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup milk or water
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, banana slices, milk or water, and honey or maple syrup (if using) to a slow cooker.
2. Stir gently to combine, then cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional sliced banana if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
Silky Smooth Peanut Butter Yogurt
A creamy and delicious treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the tanginess of yogurt, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and peanut butter until smooth and well combined.
2. If using, add the honey and mix until dissolved.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or a few chocolate chips if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Steamed Salmon with Dill Sauce
This refreshing recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with a tangy and creamy dill sauce, perfect for a light and flavorful meal. With minimal effort, you’ll have a healthy and delicious dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place the salmon in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each fillet.
4. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix the heavy cream, chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve the steamed salmon with the dill sauce spooned over the top.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for added flair.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (steaming) + 5 minutes (preparing the sauce)
Avocado and Cottage Cheese Puree
This refreshing puree is a perfect blend of creamy avocado and tangy cottage cheese, making it an ideal snack or side dish for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add the cottage cheese, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
5. Transfer the puree to a serving bowl or airtight container. If using, garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Baked Apples with Cinnamon
A deliciously simple dessert that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of apples and adds a warm, comforting touch with cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety), cored
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
3. Stuff each apple core with the butter mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
4. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelize the tops.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Puree
This recipe is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices. The resulting puree is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and spices in olive oil (if using) until softened.
2. Add the lentils, water or broth, carrots, and zucchini. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tofu and Spinach Smoothie
Combine the creamy texture of tofu with the nutrient-packed goodness of spinach, and you’ll get a deliciously healthy smoothie that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup silken tofu
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine tofu, spinach, banana, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chia Seed Pudding with Almond Milk
A nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack option, this chia seed pudding is a great way to start your day. With the creamy richness of almond milk and the omega-3 benefits of chia seeds, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to combine.
2. If desired, add honey or maple syrup and stir to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. When ready to serve, give the mixture a good stir and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pureed Pumpkin and Rice Porridge
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Pureed Pumpkin and Rice Porridge!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, pumpkin puree, and water/broth. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
3. Bring the porridge to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poached Chicken with Creamy Gravy
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This poached chicken dish is tender, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with a rich and creamy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
6. Strain cooking liquid into a saucepan and add heavy cream.
7. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
8. Stir in butter until melted.
9. Serve poached chicken with creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes.
Steamed Zucchini with Olive Oil
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini, paired with the savory flavor of olive oil. Perfect as a side dish or light snack, this healthy option is quick to prepare and easy to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Rinse the zucchinis under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch thick slices or leave them whole if desired.
3. Place the zucchinis in a steamer basket over boiling water.
4. Cover the pot and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste. If desired, add garlic powder or squeeze fresh lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana and Oat Smoothie
Kick-start your day with a deliciously healthy and filling smoothie packed with the natural goodness of bananas, oats, and milk!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, oats, and yogurt.
2. Add honey if you prefer your smoothie a bit sweeter.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 2 minutes
– Blending time: 1 minute
Enjoy your delicious Banana and Oat Smoothie!
Soft Polenta with Parmesan
This comforting Italian side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes or as a base for hearty sauces. With its velvety texture and nutty flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta cornmeal and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pureed Cauliflower and Cheese
This comforting side dish is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers! By blending cooked cauliflower with cheese, garlic, and cream, you’ll create a rich and satisfying accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cauliflower to the skillet and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a blender or food processor with cheese, cream, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ginger-Turmeric Vegetable Broth
Nourish your body with this flavorful and nutritious broth, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a base for soups and stews. This recipe combines the anti-inflammatory powers of ginger and turmeric with a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onions, bell peppers)
– 4 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sliced ginger and ground turmeric.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and pour in the water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot or bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Silken Tofu Chocolate Mousse
This rich and creamy dessert is a game-changer for vegan chocolate lovers. With its silky texture and intense chocolate flavor, this mousse is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu (12 oz)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup melted dairy-free chocolate chips (such as Enjoy Life)
Instructions:
1. Drain and press the tofu to remove excess liquid.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the tofu, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Melt the dairy-free chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the tofu mixture until well combined.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required. Chilling time: 2 hours.
Summary
Discover 20 easy recipes perfect for those with gastroparesis and sensitive stomachs. From soft scrambled eggs to silky smooth peanut butter yogurt, these recipes cater to those who struggle with digestion. Blended butternut squash soup, pureed carrot and ginger soup, and slow-cooked oatmeal with banana are just a few examples of the delicious and gentle options featured in this article. With ingredients like coconut milk, chia seeds, and almond milk, these dishes aim to soothe and satisfy even the most sensitive stomachs.
