Gastritis is a condition that requires careful dietary choices to manage inflammation effectively. It’s not just about avoiding certain foods but embracing those that heal and nurture the digestive system. If you are struggling to tolerate any raw vegetables then I advise you to eat this salad with its cooked substitutes but do not worry I always add substitutes for each recipe! Simply choose the ingredients you are in comfort with! This Gastritis-Friendly Cucumber Salad is a dish that helped me a lot during my illness. Feel free to explore other recipes on my website! As a main dish, I personally recommend to you Gentle Herb Salmon with Millet and Carrots. It contains a huge amount of calories and at the same time is gently on the stomach.
Discovering the Dish
During my culinary explorations, I stumbled upon the concept of using creamy avocados as a base for dressing. Intrigued by this idea, I experimented and found that not only did it add a luxurious texture, but it also aligned perfectly with the gastritis-friendly foods recommended by my nutritionist. After some experimentation I developed this recipe. Oh, I wish I had known this recipe at the beginning of my gastritis. When I started to eat this dish day by day it became my permanent lunch at least 2-3 days in a week.
Universal Ingredients in Gastritis-Friendly Cucumber Salad
The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility and the ease with which the ingredients can be substituted to cater to different dietary needs or availability. Each ingredient was chosen for its gentle impact on the digestive system and its nutritional value. For instance, spinach and green lettuce offer a wealth of vitamins without being too harsh on a sensitive stomach. Quinoa, a complete protein, provides sustenance, making this salad not just a side dish but a fulfilling meal.
What’s more, the ingredients like avocado and olive oil are celebrated for their anti-inflammatory properties, making this salad a powerhouse of nutrients that support gut health and overall well-being.
Gastritis-Friendly Cucumber Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Equipment
- Vegetable peeler
- Blender
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 cup spinach Substitutes: butter lettuce, kale
- cup green lettuce Substitutes: kale, arugula
- 1 large cucumber Substitutes: zucchini
- 1/2 cup quinoa Substitutes: rice, millet
- 1/4 cup almonds Substitutes: sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds or simply omit if you cannot tolerate any seeds
- 1 A handful of parsley and dill Substitutes: chives, cilantro, black caraway seed
Creamy Avocado Dressing
- 1 ripe avocado Substitutes: mashed sweet potato
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Substitutes: avocado oil
- 1 A pinch of salt Substitutes: herbamare, himalayan sat
- 1 tbsp Optional: water to thin the dressing
Instructions
Salad Base
- Rinse and dry mixed greens, then place in a large mixing bowl.1 cup spinach, cup green lettuce
- Slice cucumber and add to the bowl, remember to take off the skin.1 large cucumber
- Cook quinoa until the water is absorbed and add it to the bowl and mix gently.1/2 cup quinoa
- Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, then add to the salad.1/4 cup almonds
Creamy Avocado Dressing
- For the dressing, blend ripe avocado, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth.1 ripe avocado, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 A pinch of salt, 1 tbsp Optional: water to thin the dressing
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing to combine evenly.
- Garnish the salad with a handful of fresh herbs and enjoy the taste.1 A handful of parsley and dill
FAQ:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving.
What if I can’t eat nuts?
- Feel free to omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
How long does the avocado dressing last?
- The dressing should be used immediately to prevent oxidation. If there are leftovers, store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed on the surface of the dressing and use within a day.
Can I use frozen spinach?
- Fresh spinach is best for texture and flavor, but in a pinch, thawed and well-drained frozen spinach can be used.
Is this recipe suitable for all types of gastritis?
- While it’s designed to be gentle, individual tolerances vary. Consult with a healthcare provider if unsure about specific ingredients and read my guide on First Healing Steps in Gastritis.