When it comes to recovery from an illness or surgery, a nutritious diet plays a crucial role in helping your body heal and regain strength. One of the most effective ways to provide your body with essential nutrients during this time is through a full liquid diet. This type of diet involves consuming only liquids and pureed foods for a set period, allowing your digestive system to rest and recover. In this article, we will explore 18 nutritious recipes that are perfect for a full liquid diet, providing you with the energy and nourishment you need to get back on track. From creamy protein shakes to soothing herbal teas, these delicious and easy-to-make recipes will make mealtime a breeze. Whether you’re recovering from an illness or surgery, or simply looking to give your digestive system a break, these full liquid diet recipes are sure to please.
Creamy Vanilla Protein Shake
Kickstart your day with this delicious and protein-packed shake that combines the richness of vanilla with the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (20g)
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the vanilla protein powder, frozen pineapple, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed for about 20 seconds, or until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend for another 10-15 seconds.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency, then blend until well combined.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Homemade Chicken Broth
Bring the flavors of homemade chicken broth to your cooking with this simple and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (necks, backs, wings, legs)
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large roasting pan, combine chicken pieces, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and transfer to a large pot or Dutch oven.
5. Add water and thyme to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
7. Let broth cook for 6-8 hours, or overnight, allowing flavors to meld together.
8. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (or overnight)
Blended Vegetable Soup
A warm and comforting bowl of goodness, this blended vegetable soup is a perfect way to cozy up on a chilly day. With a medley of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy texture, you’ll be delighted with each spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups mixed vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots, celery, and red bell pepper in butter until tender.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smooth Banana Almond Smoothie
Combine the creamy texture of bananas with the nutty flavor of almonds for a delicious and nutritious smoothie.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup unsalted almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, almonds, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and cold water, blending until well combined.
4. Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Silken Tofu Miso Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese flavors with the creaminess of silken tofu. With just a few ingredients, you can create a soothing and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu (14 oz), drained and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and add the miso paste. Whisk until dissolved.
3. Add the crumbled tofu and stir gently to distribute evenly.
4. Season with black pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Strawberry Yogurt Smoothie
A refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and creamy yogurt, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or nonfat)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the strawberries, yogurt, and honey (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Add the ice-cold water and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Yogurt Smoothie!
Pureed Pumpkin Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly fall or winter day. With its creamy texture and warm spices, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add pumpkin, cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to pot.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Avocado Coconut Smoothie
Start your day with a nutrient-rich smoothie that combines the creaminess of avocados with the richness of coconut. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup coconut water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the avocado, pineapple chunks, and unsweetened shredded coconut to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the coconut water and honey, blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as desired by adding more honey or ice cubes.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Herbal Tea with Honey
As the seasons change, a warm cup of herbal tea can be just what you need to unwind and recharge. This simple recipe combines the calming properties of herbs with the sweet charm of honey for a delightful pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
– 1 tablespoon loose-leaf black tea (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. In a teapot or mug, combine the dried peppermint leaves and chamomile flowers.
2. Add the loose-leaf black tea, if using.
3. Pour in the boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and add the honey to taste.
5. Stir well and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Blended Tomato Basil Soup
This vibrant and flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy evening or as a refreshing pick-me-up on a warm day. With the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the richness of cream, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
3. Stir in basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Blend until well combined.
6. Simmer the soup over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of butter.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peach and Oatmeal Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing blend of sweet peaches and creamy oatmeal, packed with fiber and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the peach, oats, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend 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, colder smoothie.
4. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated and the smoothie reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Pour immediately into glasses or containers and enjoy!
Pureed Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made with roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in remaining butter until translucent.
3. Add roasted sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup reaches desired consistency.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake
Treat yourself to a decadent blend of chocolate and peanut butter in this indulgent shake. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the ice cream, peanut butter, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or flavor as desired.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 1-2 people
Blended Carrot Ginger Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and spicy ginger, making it a delightful and nutritious meal for any time of the year. With its creamy texture and subtle zing, you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little water until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until carrots are extremely tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream to enhance the creamy texture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blueberry Spinach Smoothie
Start your day with a boost of antioxidants and energy from this refreshing blueberry spinach smoothie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a high-speed blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious blueberry spinach smoothie!
Lentil and Turmeric Puree Soup
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious blend of red lentils, aromatic spices, and creamy texture, perfect for a cozy afternoon or a comforting meal. With the added benefits of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges or croutons for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the lentils and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges or croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pineapple Mint Smoothie
Revitalize your day with this refreshing blend of tropical flavors and cooling mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add the pineapple, yogurt, mint, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add the ice-cold water and blend until fully incorporated and the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or mintiness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Blended Cauliflower Cheese Soup
This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of cauliflower with the richness of melted cheese, creating a comforting and indulgent soup perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Recover from an illness or surgery with these 18 nutritious full liquid diet recipes. From creamy protein shakes to soothing herbal teas, these blended delights are designed to provide essential nutrients and hydration while easing digestive discomfort. Try a Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake for a sweet treat, or opt for a Blended Vegetable Soup for a fiber-rich meal replacement. With options like Avocado Coconut Smoothie and Peach and Oatmeal Smoothie, there’s something for everyone on this list of healthy, full-liquid recipes perfect for post-operative or convalescent care.
