When it comes to nutrition, adults with special needs require tailored diets that cater to their unique dietary needs. One effective way to ensure adequate nutrient intake is through the use of feeding tubes. However, finding recipes that are both nutritious and appealing can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious feeding tube food recipes that cater to adult special needs. From creamy purees to blended soups and smoothies, these recipes offer a range of options to suit different tastes and dietary requirements.
Whether you’re looking for high-calorie shakes or gentle, easy-to-digest meals, our recipe collection has something for everyone. Each recipe is carefully crafted to provide essential nutrients while being easy on the digestive system. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare professional, or individual with special needs, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your daily routine.
Creamy Avocado and Spinach Puree
This creamy puree is a perfect blend of nutritious spinach and silky avocado, ideal as a dip for veggies or crackers, or as a topping for whole grain toast or baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, spinach, butter, and garlic.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Smoothie Blend
Kick-start your day with a nutritious and delicious banana oatmeal smoothie blend that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of oats, and the boost of protein from Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, oats, Greek yogurt, and honey.
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. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until crushed.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Sweet Potato and Carrot Medley
A delicious and healthy side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of carrots. This medley is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick coins
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss the sweet potato slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the sweet potatoes on one half of the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Repeat the same process with the carrot coins, using the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on the other half of the baking sheet.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until both vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
High-Protein Chicken and Rice Puree
This recipe combines lean chicken breast with nutritious rice and veggies to create a high-protein puree perfect for babies, toddlers, or anyone looking for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup mixed veggies (such as carrots, zucchini, and peas)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let cool, then chop into small pieces.
6. Combine cooked rice, mixed veggies, and chopped chicken in a blender or food processor.
7. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Gentle Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, with roasted pumpkin, aromatic spices, and the creaminess of coconut milk. A gentle and soothing soup for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the pumpkin cubes in a baking dish with olive oil, until tender and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes.
2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the roasted pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Silky Almond Butter and Banana Mix
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious mix of creamy almond butter, ripe bananas, and crunchy textures. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp silky almond butter (creamy style)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of creamy almond butter on top of the banana slices, depending on your desired level of coverage.
3. Sprinkle the rolled oats and chopped walnuts over the almond butter layer.
4. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
5. Mix everything together until well combined.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 2-3 minutes.
Soft-Cooked Quinoa with Peas and Mint
This vibrant side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, bursting with the natural sweetness of peas and the freshness of mint. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and creamy.
3. Add the peas and mint leaves to the cooked quinoa. Season with salt to taste.
4. Fluff the mixture with a fork to combine the ingredients. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blended Lentil and Vegetable Stew
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a packed lunch. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of lentils with a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until tender.
2. Add lentils, broth, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the stew to a blender and puree to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Vanilla Custard with Honey Drizzle
Sweet Vanilla Custard with Honey Drizzle Recipe
This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with the creamy vanilla custard and drizzle of warm honey creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
6. Pour the custard into individual serving cups or ramekins.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until set.
Honey Drizzle:
1. Warm 2 tablespoons of honey in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until runny.
2. Drizzle warm honey over the chilled vanilla custard just before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peach and Yogurt Smoothie Blend
Beat the heat with this refreshing peach and yogurt smoothie blend! This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the diced peach, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend 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 desired texture is reached.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pureed Turkey with Sweet Corn and Thyme
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of tender turkey, sweet corn, and the subtle flavor of thyme. It’s an ideal recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked turkey, corn kernels, butter, thyme sprigs, and chicken broth.
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. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Softened Apple and Cinnamon Compote
Transform tender apples into a warm, comforting compote infused with the sweet warmth of cinnamon. Perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples, sugar, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is syrupy (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add cinnamon and water; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the compote has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Blended White Fish with Parsley Sauce
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of white fish with the brightness of parsley sauce, making it a perfect choice for a quick and healthy meal. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 cups fresh parsley leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet and cook the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, blend the parsley leaves, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice in a blender until smooth.
5. Serve the cooked fish with the parsley sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Nutrient-Rich Kale and Potato Mash
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines the earthy goodness of kale with the comfort of potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or a base for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup low-fat milk or Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add kale to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted.
6. Mash roasted potatoes with milk or yogurt, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked kale mixture with mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Silky Tofu and Ginger Infusion
Elevate your meals with this simple yet flavorful infusion of silky tofu and fragrant ginger. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy snack or as a base for various dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-soft silken tofu (14 oz)
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 cups water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into small cubes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced ginger and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the saucepan with the ginger-infused water. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the tofu is silky smooth and fully absorbed.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pureed Beetroot and Goat Cheese Blend
This creamy blend combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and refreshing snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss beetroot with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Let the beetroot cool slightly before peeling off the skin and transferring it to a blender or food processor.
4. Add crumbled goat cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon juice to the blender.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Warm Butternut Squash and Sage Puree
Warm Butternut Squash and Sage Puree: A comforting side dish that’s perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy evening at home.
Soft-Cooked Pear and Vanilla Pudding
Savor the sweetness of pears and vanilla as they come together in a comforting soft-cooked pudding. This gentle dessert is perfect for a cozy evening or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or similar), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sliced pears, milk, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer (about 5 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Serve warm, garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
High-Calorie Peanut Butter and Banana Shake
This decadent treat combines the richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of banana, perfect for a post-workout snack or a indulgent pick-me-up. With over 400 calories per serving, this shake is sure to keep you full and satisfied.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Ice cubes (as needed)
• Whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, ice cream, milk, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Pour into a glass and add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker shake.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra-special treat.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Blended Green Beans with Garlic and Olive Oil
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare green beans, perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals. With the addition of garlic and olive oil, this blend will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the green beans and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the green beans are tender.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use a blender or food processor to blend the mixture until smooth.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 nutritious feeding tube food recipes designed specifically for adults with special needs. From creamy avocado and spinach purees to sweet potato and carrot medleys, these recipes cater to various tastes and dietary requirements. With options like high-protein chicken and rice puree, gentle pumpkin and coconut milk soup, and silky almond butter and banana mix, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-prepare recipes are perfect for caregivers, healthcare professionals, or individuals looking to create a personalized meal plan that meets their unique needs.
