When it comes to feeding tube nutrition, finding delicious and nutritious recipes can be a challenge. Adults with special needs require a tailored approach to their diet, considering factors such as texture, taste, and digestive ease. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make recipes that cater specifically to adults with special needs. From creamy blends to savory purees, these recipes are designed to provide optimal nutrition while satisfying the palates of those who require a feeding tube.
Whether you’re a caregiver or a parent looking for inspiration, our collection of recipes will guide you in creating personalized meal plans that meet your loved one’s unique dietary requirements. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and ease of preparation, these recipes are perfect for those seeking convenience without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Creamy Banana and Peanut Butter Blend
A deliciously creamy treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutty flavor of peanut butter, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and honey to the blender. Blend until well combined and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
4. Pour into a serving bowl or individual cups. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Savory Chicken and Vegetable Puree
A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This puree is made with tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a hint of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Sweet Potato and Carrot Medley
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal, this sweet potato and carrot medley is a delightful combination of roasted vegetables. With its natural sweetness and hint of spice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes and carrots with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
High-Protein Oatmeal with Almond Milk
Boost your morning routine with this protein-packed oatmeal recipe, made with almond milk and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (approx. 25g protein)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sliced banana, handful of chopped nuts, or drizzle of honey for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the almond milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the rolled oats, protein powder, and chia seeds. Whisk until combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oatmeal has thickened to your liking.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your preferred add-ins (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy a protein-packed breakfast that will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout your morning!
Silky Avocado and Spinach Smoothie
Start your day with a creamy and nutritious blend of avocado, spinach, and banana. This smoothie is packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep you full and focused.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed by adding more honey or almond milk.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Blend and enjoy in under 5 minutes.
Gentle Lentil and Rice Porridge
This comforting porridge is a gentle blend of lentils, rice, and aromatic spices, perfect for a soothing meal or snack. With its creamy texture and subtle flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. Add rice, onion, garlic, cumin, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and porridge has a creamy consistency.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Delight
Warm up with this creamy and comforting dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin and coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy evening or a seasonal gathering, this delightful treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and toasted pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pumpkin, coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and well combined.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
3. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and toasted pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Softened Salmon with Dill and Yogurt
A refreshing twist on traditional salmon recipes, this dish combines the flavors of dill and yogurt to create a tender and flavorful fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Spoon the yogurt mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blueberry and Greek Yogurt Fusion
This refreshing dessert is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, featuring plump blueberries and creamy Greek yogurt. It’s an easy and healthy treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 6 oz Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey (optional)
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the blueberries and honey (if using). Mix until the berries are evenly coated with honey.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth.
3. Spoon the yogurt mixture over the blueberry mixture in the original bowl.
4. Gently fold the two mixtures together until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional blueberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Beef and Barley Nutrient-Rich Puree
A comforting and nutritious puree that combines the heartiness of beef with the wholesome goodness of barley, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 2 cups cooked pearl barley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in the garlic, cooked barley, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let puree thicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Pudding
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Pudding, perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy breakfast option. This creamy pudding combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with sweet apples and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large apple, diced (about 2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine melted butter, apple, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat until apples are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the apple mixture.
4. Chill pudding in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including quinoa cooking time)
Green Pea and Mint Puree
This puree is a perfect blend of green peas, fresh mint, and creamy texture, making it a delightful accompaniment to any meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green peas
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the green peas and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the green peas, mint leaves, and olive oil.
3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tropical Mango and Chia Seed Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of mango with the nutty flavor of chia seeds, perfect for a hot summer day. With its vibrant orange color and creamy texture, it’s a treat that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mango, chia seeds, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.
Turkey and Sweet Corn Mash
This comforting side dish combines the warmth of roasted turkey with the natural sweetness of corn, creating a delightful mash perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey (white or dark meat), diced
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the turkey, sweet corn, and butter.
3. Cook over medium heat until the butter has melted and the mixture is heated through.
4. Add the milk or heavy cream and stir until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Custard with Flaxseed
This classic dessert gets a nutritious boost from the addition of flaxseed, providing a creamy and indulgent treat that’s also good for you.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, flaxseed meal, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks.
5. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
6. Pour the custard into 4 (6-ounce) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs like sage or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and pulp.
3. Place squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
4. Roast for 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
5. Scoop out flesh and puree in a blender with remaining ingredients.
6. Simmer soup over low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Herbed White Bean and Garlic Blend
This aromatic blend of white beans, garlic, and fresh herbs is a perfect accompaniment to many dishes, from roasted meats to pasta sauces. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the soaked and drained cannellini beans, garlic, parsley, thyme, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pear and Ginger Comfort Puree
Soothing comfort food for a chilly day or a warm treat any time of the year, this puree combines sweet pears with spicy ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pears, grated ginger, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears are tender and the mixture is heated through (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and honey until smooth.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Protein Shake
This indulgent-tasting protein shake combines the richness of chocolate with the creamy goodness of peanut butter, making it a perfect treat for fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to boost their daily protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop of your favorite chocolate protein powder
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the protein powder, almond milk, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to a blender.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the shake is the desired thickness.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (just blend and enjoy!)
Cauliflower and Cheese Creamy Puree
This comforting side dish is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers and skeptics alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a silky-smooth puree that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with butter until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor.
8. Add the cheddar cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 nutritious feeding tube food recipes designed for adults with special needs. From creamy blends to savory purees, these recipes cater to various tastes and dietary requirements. Enjoy sweet treats like Banana-Peanut Butter Blend and Apple-Cinnamon Quinoa Pudding, or opt for protein-packed options like High-Protein Oatmeal and Chocolate-Peanut Butter Protein Shake. Savory options include Savory Chicken-Vegetable Puree and Beef- Barley Nutrient-Rich Puree. These easy-to-make recipes use wholesome ingredients and are perfect for caregivers, healthcare professionals, or individuals with special needs seeking a nutritious feeding tube diet.
