After undergoing oral surgery, it’s essential to follow a diet that promotes gentle healing and minimizes discomfort. A common misconception is that you need to eat bland, unappetizing foods during this time. However, with these 18 soothing soft food recipes, you can enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious meals that cater to your delicate mouth.
From creamy mashed potatoes to silky smooth soups, and from gentle smoothies to pureed main courses, our collection of recipes offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of oatmeal or a protein-packed dip, we’ve got you covered with these soft food recipes designed specifically for post-oral surgery recovery.
Creamy mashed potatoes with butter
Simplify your holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight meals with this comforting side dish that’s sure to please a crowd. This classic recipe adds an extra layer of richness with the addition of melted butter.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream or milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silky smooth butternut squash soup
Warm up with this silky smooth butternut squash soup, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. This recipe yields a comforting and flavorful soup that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken 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 butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 45 minutes, or until flesh is tender.
4. Scoop out roasted squash and puree in a blender or food processor with onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Gentle avocado banana smoothie
This creamy smoothie is a perfect blend of healthy fats and natural sweetness, making it an ideal post-workout snack or a quick breakfast on-the-go. With the addition of avocado, you’ll get a boost of creamy texture without any overpowering flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, avocado, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture 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 desired texture is achieved.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Soft scrambled eggs with cream cheese
Start your day with a rich and creamy breakfast by whipping up these soft scrambled eggs with cream cheese. This simple yet indulgent recipe is perfect for a lazy morning or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the edges start to set.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
5. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the eggs are just set and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Pureed carrot ginger soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and spicy ginger, making it a delicious and healthy option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and ginger in a little water until tender.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lukewarm oatmeal with honey and cinnamon
Start your day off right with a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweetness of honey and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a lukewarm temperature.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Add the cinnamon and stir until combined.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blended lentil and vegetable stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of fiber-rich lentils, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Yogurt parfait with mashed berries
Start your day with a deliciously sweet and healthy treat – a Berry Blissful Yogurt Parfait! This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola or cereal crumbs
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with the mashed berries.
4. Sprinkle the granola or cereal crumbs over the berries.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 to create another layer.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Soft polenta with melted cheese
This comforting dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite hearty meals or as a standalone snack. The creamy polenta pairs beautifully with melted cheese, creating a rich and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or other favorite cheese)
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce heat to medium. Cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt until melted and smooth.
4. Transfer the polenta to a serving dish or individual ramekins.
5. Top with grated cheese and return to the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pureed pumpkin and coconut milk soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of autumnal flavors, with roasted pumpkin and the richness of coconut milk. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and crusty bread for a cozy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Fluffy cottage cheese with applesauce
A delightful and healthy snack that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of applesauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the cottage cheese and applesauce. Mix until smooth.
2. If desired, add the honey and mix well.
3. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy snack!
Blended white bean and garlic dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and savory dip, perfect for veggie lovers and garlic enthusiasts alike! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously creamy spread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cannellini beans, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika or chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Warm rice pudding with vanilla
Cozy up on a chilly evening with this comforting warm rice pudding infused with the sweetness of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice, cooled
– 2 cups milk (whole or 2% work well)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooled rice, milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. Pour into individual serving bowls and serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Silken tofu chocolate mousse
Transform regular silken tofu into a decadent chocolate mousse that’s vegan-friendly and surprisingly rich!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu (14 oz)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
Instructions:
1. Drain and press the tofu to remove excess liquid.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the tofu, cocoa powder, sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the non-dairy milk and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill and serve.
Soft-boiled egg with runny yolk
A classic breakfast staple gets a perfect balance of creamy yolk and firm white.
Ingredients:
– 1 large egg
– Water for boiling
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium saucepan with enough water to cover the egg by about an inch.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Gently place the egg into the water.
4. Cook for 6-7 minutes for large eggs and 5-6 minutes for small or medium eggs.
5. Remove the egg from the water with a slotted spoon and transfer it to an ice bath to stop cooking.
6. Let the egg sit in the ice bath for 2-3 minutes, then crack it gently and peel off the shell.
Cooking Time:
– Total cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Resting time: 2-3 minutes
Pureed cauliflower and cheese sauce
Creamy Pureed Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce Recipe
A comforting and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a twist on traditional mac and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
4. Transfer roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add cheddar cheese, heavy cream or milk, and blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chilled mango and yogurt smoothie
Beat the heat with this simple and delicious chilled mango and yogurt smoothie recipe! Perfect for hot summer days or as a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the diced mango, plain yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency or prefer your smoothie colder.
4. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
6. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve chilled.
Enjoy your refreshing mango treat!
Lukewarm cream of wheat with maple syrup
This comforting breakfast treat combines the simplicity of cream of wheat with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, perfect for a quiet morning moment. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream of wheat
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (to taste)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cream of wheat and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. Add maple syrup to taste, stirring well to combine.
5. Season with salt to balance the sweetness.
6. Serve lukewarm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for gentle and soothing food options after oral surgery? This article provides 18 soft food recipes to aid in your recovery. From creamy mashed potatoes to silky smooth butternut squash soup, these dishes are designed to be easy on the mouth and throat while still providing essential nutrients. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of oatmeal or a refreshing glass of mango and yogurt smoothie, this collection has something for everyone. With a focus on gentle textures and soothing flavors, these recipes will help make your post-surgery mealtime a breeze.
