Feeding tube nutrition can be a challenge, especially when it comes to finding recipes that are not only delicious but also nutritious. Adults with special needs require a diet that meets their unique nutritional needs, and feeding tubes provide a way to deliver these essential nutrients directly into the body. In this article, we will explore 20 nutritious feeding tube food recipes for adults with special needs.
From high-protein options like our High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Puree to comforting blends like Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Smoothie, we have gathered a variety of recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements. Whether you are looking for something sweet or savory, creamy or crunchy, we have got you covered. In the following pages, we will take a closer look at each recipe, exploring its ingredients, nutritional benefits, and preparation instructions.
High-Protein Chicken and Vegetable Puree
This recipe is a nutritious and delicious blend of chicken, vegetables, and protein-rich ingredients perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken breast, mixed vegetables, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before blending into a puree using an immersion blender or a traditional blender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana and Oatmeal Smoothie Blend
Start your day with a boost of fiber and protein from this delicious banana and oatmeal smoothie blend. With the natural sweetness of bananas and the creamy texture of oats, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, oats, almond milk, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt and blend for an additional 5 seconds.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Creamy Avocado and Spinach Puree
A rich and creamy dip or spread made with the goodness of avocados, spinach, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for topping toast, crackers, or veggies, or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, spinach, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and blend until fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Sweet Potato and Carrot Medley
This sweet and savory medley combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of carrots, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato cubes and carrot slices.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the medley in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Vegetable Broth with Blended Greens
This homemade vegetable broth is a nutrient-rich base for soups, stews, and sauces. By blending in a variety of leafy greens, you’ll add an extra boost of vitamins and antioxidants to this already wholesome liquid gold.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, mushrooms, etc.)
– 6 cups water
– 2 cups blended greens (kale, spinach, collard greens, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
5. Stir in the blended greens and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes before straining the broth.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Smoothie
Warm up with this creamy and comforting smoothie that combines the flavors of pumpkin, coconut milk, and spices.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 banana, sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, banana, and honey.
2. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg; blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
4. If desired, add ice cubes to thicken and chill the smoothie.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie reaches desired consistency.
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Immediately and enjoy!
Quinoa and Lentil Puree with Herbs
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the nutritional benefits of quinoa, lentils, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side or main course, this puree is easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, lentils, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until grains are tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, parsley, and cilantro to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked quinoa and lentils and add to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mash mixture with a fork or potato masher to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Berry and Yogurt Nutritional Shake
This refreshing shake combines the sweetness of mixed berries with the tanginess of yogurt, making it a perfect pick-me-up snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen mixed berries, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Broccoli and Cauliflower Cheese Puree
This recipe transforms steamed broccoli and cauliflower into a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and nutritious puree that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Steam the broccoli and cauliflower until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Puree the steamed broccoli and cauliflower in a blender or food processor until smooth.
6. Combine the pureed vegetables with the cheese sauce; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peach and Mango Smoothie Blend
Reinvigorate your day with a refreshing blend of peaches and mangoes, perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a sweet treat. This smoothie is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the peaches, mango, and yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Pour in the ice-cold water and blend until the desired consistency is reached (thicker or thinner).
5. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with a slice of peach or mango if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Blend and serve.
Beef and Vegetable Stew Puree
A comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender beef with an array of vegetables in a rich broth. Serve it over crusty bread or with some crusty cornbread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add chopped vegetables to the pot and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the stew until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Almond Butter and Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a boost of energy and a dose of creamy deliciousness with this simple smoothie recipe featuring almond butter, ripe bananas, and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender.
2. Add the almond butter, Greek yogurt, and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Zucchini and Basil Puree
This refreshing puree is perfect for hot summer days when you need a light and flavorful side dish or appetizer. The combination of sautéed zucchini, fragrant basil, and garlic creates a deliciously simple and healthy condiment.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté the zucchini in olive oil until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Vanilla
A comforting and classic dessert, this rice pudding is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooled rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Pea and Mint Puree
This vibrant puree is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for crudités. The combination of sweet green peas and refreshing mint creates a unique flavor profile that’s both soothing and invigorating.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green peas
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green peas, mint leaves, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apple and Cinnamon Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing blend of crisp apples, warm cinnamon, and creamy yogurt. This smoothie is perfect for any time of the year, especially during fall when apples are in season.
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, cored and chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped apple, cinnamon, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, adding the Greek yogurt and milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
3. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is frosty.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy.
Salmon and Sweet Potato Puree
This recipe combines the omega-rich flavor of salmon with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a nutritious and tasty puree perfect for a weeknight dinner or baby’s meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the salmon is cooking, pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
6. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
7. Peel the sweet potatoes and blend into a smooth puree using an immersion blender or regular blender.
8. Serve the salmon with the warm sweet potato puree.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Shake
Experience a decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds – rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. This indulgent shake is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Whipped cream and chocolate syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the ice cream, peanut butter, cocoa powder, milk, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker shake.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the shake reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness or chocolate flavor as needed.
6. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Mixed Berry and Tofu Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of mixed berries with the creaminess of silken tofu, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day. With only 5 ingredients and 2 minutes of prep time, you’ll be sipping on this delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup silken tofu
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the mixed berries, silken tofu, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Tomato and Basil Soup Puree
Tomato and Basil Soup Puree Recipe
Summary:
This recipe yields a creamy and flavorful soup puree that showcases the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and salt. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
7. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time:
Total: 35-40 minutes
Simmering time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Are you looking for nutritious feeding tube food recipes for adults with special needs? Look no further! This article presents 20 delicious and healthy recipes that cater to individual dietary requirements. From high-protein chicken and vegetable purees to sweet potato and carrot medleys, these recipes are designed to provide essential nutrients and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a creamy avocado and spinach puree or a berry and yogurt nutritional shake, this collection has something for everyone.