Living with Crohn disease can be challenging, but one way to take control of your symptoms is by making informed choices about the food you eat. A diet rich in nutrients and gentle on the digestive system can help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that are specifically designed for Crohn disease management. From sweet potato mash to baked salmon, these recipes use ingredients that are easy to digest and packed with nutrients to support overall health.
Whether you’re looking for breakfast inspiration, a quick and easy lunch, or a comforting dinner, we’ve got you covered. Our recipes feature a range of flavors and textures, from creamy purees to hearty stews. And the best part? They’re all gentle on the digestive system, making them perfect for those living with Crohn disease.
In this article, we’ll dive into each recipe in detail, providing step-by-step instructions and ingredient lists. We’ll also provide tips and tricks for modifying recipes to suit your individual needs and preferences.
So why wait? Dive into these 20 delicious recipes today and start taking control of your Crohn disease management!
Soft Roasted Sweet Potato Mash
Soft Roasted Sweet Potato Mash Recipe
Summary: This recipe yields a creamy and fluffy sweet potato mash with a hint of roasted sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite meals!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Mash the roasted sweet potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
7. Add milk or heavy cream and butter (if using) and mix well.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gentle Ginger Carrot Soup
Gentle Ginger Carrot Soup Recipe: Soothing and Delicious!
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a relaxing lunch. The gentle warmth of ginger and the sweetness of carrots come together to create a delightful and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Stir in the grated ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender or food processor.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Fiber Banana Smoothie
A refreshing and healthy treat that’s perfect for a hot day or as a post-workout snack. This smoothie is packed with nutrients and low in fiber, making it an excellent option for those looking to reduce their fiber intake.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Baked Salmon with Steamed Zucchini
A healthy and flavorful combination that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Meanwhile, steam the sliced zucchinis in a steamer basket or microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
7. Serve salmon with steamed zucchini and garnish with lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Quinoa Porridge with Almond Milk
Start your day with a nutritious and comforting bowl of quinoa porridge, infused with the subtle flavor of almond milk. This easy-to-make breakfast recipe is perfect for a quick morning boost.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste, chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water or almond milk to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and creamy.
4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and add a pinch of salt.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of honey, maple syrup, chopped nuts, or dried fruits.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oven-Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
This recipe yields a deliciously caramelized and tender butternut squash that’s perfect as a side dish or added to soups, salads, and main courses. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying the sweet flavors of roasted butternut squash in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash halves with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cumin (if using) until well coated.
4. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Steamed Chicken Breast with White Rice
This classic combination is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender and juicy chicken breast pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a steamer basket over boiling water.
3. Cover the pot and steam for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until tender and fluffy.
5. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like.
6. Serve the steamed chicken breasts with hot white rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Avocado and Spinach Puree
This vibrant green puree is a perfect blend of healthy fats from avocados and nutrient-rich spinach, making it an excellent addition to your meals or snacks. With only a few ingredients, you can whip up this creamy delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add the spinach leaves, lemon juice, and garlic (if using) to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Soft Scrambled Eggs with Herbs
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of eggs with the freshness of herbs. Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until just combined.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently push the cooked eggs towards the center of the pan, allowing the uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
5. Repeat this process for about 2-3 minutes, until the eggs are almost set but still slightly runny.
6. Stir in the chopped parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Boiled Parsnip and Potato Mash
This hearty side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite roasted meats or as a satisfying main course on its own. The natural sweetness of parsnips pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: butter, grated cheese, or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the parsnips and potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the cooked vegetables and return them to the pot.
4. Add milk or heavy cream and mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gentle Tofu Stir-Fry with Bok Choy
A delicate and flavorful stir-fry that combines the softness of tofu with the crunchy freshness of bok choy, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-soft tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and bok choy to the pan, cooking until the greens are slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan, stirring to combine with the bok choy and garlic.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poached White Fish with Dill
This classic Scandinavian-inspired dish is perfect for a light and easy meal or as a refreshing addition to any gathering. Poaching the fish helps retain its delicate flavor, while the dill adds a bright and citrusy note.
Ingredients:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 1/4 cup fresh dill leaves
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water
Instructions:
1. Fill a large skillet with water to cover the fish.
2. Add 2-3 slices of lemon and 1 tablespoon of fresh dill leaves to the water.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Carefully place the fish fillets in the poaching liquid, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove the fish from the water and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with additional fresh dill leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon
This classic recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tangy applesauce infused with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for snacking, cooking, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: honey or sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, cinnamon, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and easily mashed with a fork (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender or a potato masher to puree the mixture to your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding honey or sugar as needed.
5. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Green Beans with Olive Oil
This classic recipe brings out the natural sweetness of green beans with a subtle boost from olive oil. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this easy-to-make recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium-sized pot with 2-3 inches of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
4. Add the green beans to the steamer basket.
5. Cover the pot and steam for 4-6 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
6. Remove from heat and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Low-Fiber Pumpkin Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for those who want a flavorful pumpkin treat without the digestive discomfort that can come with high-fiber ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and soothing bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
3. Place the pumpkin on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. Scoop the roasted pumpkin flesh into a blender or food processor with the butter, onion, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cooked Pear Compote
This sweet and comforting compote is perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream, or served alongside pork chops or game meats. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the warm, caramelized flavor of cooked pears in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pear slices, brown sugar, water, and butter.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the liquid has thickened into a syrupy consistency.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon stick (if using).
4. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Turkey Breast with Mashed Cauliflower
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional roasted turkey breast, this recipe pairs tender poultry with creamy mashed cauliflower for a satisfying side dish. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast.
4. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, steam the cauliflower until tender. Drain and mash with chicken broth until smooth.
6. Serve the roasted turkey breast with mashed cauliflower.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Plain Oatmeal with Honey
Start your day off right with a comforting bowl of plain oatmeal, sweetened to perfection with drizzles of honey. This classic recipe is a timeless favorite that’s easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the rolled oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Baked Cod with Lemon
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic dish, this soft-baked cod recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a tender fish exterior and a moist interior, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle minced garlic and thyme evenly.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Carrot and Parsnip Medley
This colorful medley of steamed carrots and parsnips is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious and healthy accompaniment to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Place the carrot and parsnip slices in a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add butter or olive oil to the medley before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious recipes designed to help manage Crohn’s disease. From soft roasted sweet potato mash to gentle ginger carrot soup, these dishes are tailored to ease digestive discomfort. Enjoy low-fiber banana smoothies and quinoa porridge with almond milk for a nutritious breakfast. For dinner, try baked salmon with steamed zucchini or roasted turkey breast with mashed cauliflower. These easy-to-follow recipes offer healthy alternatives to common Crohn’s triggers, making mealtime a breeze. Take control of your symptoms and indulge in these tasty options designed specifically for Crohn’s disease management.
