Mashed cauliflower is a great choice for a side dish along with a protein for gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients.It looks and feels like mashed potatoes, but is much lower in carbohydrates and calories, which is better for weight loss surgery patients on a post-op bariatric surgery diet. It pairs well with chicken, turkey, pork, beef, sausage, seafood, and even cheese as proteins.
Garlic and Chive Mashed Cauliflower
- 1 head cauliflower
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic (add more if you love garlic and your new stomach can tolerate it)
- ¼ cup plain greek yogurt
- ¼ cup chives, chopped fine
- 2 sprigs parsley, chopped fine
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cut cauliflower florets off the stem, chopping larger ones into smaller pieces.
- Rinse in a colander.
- Boil in a covered pot for 15-18 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain.
- Place in a large bowl.
- Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth.
- Add all other ingredients, stir well to combine.
Dr. Shillingford’s gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients are encouraged to try mashed cauliflower once they have reached the stage of eating cooked vegetables. But, as always, weight loss surgery patients are encouraged to consume their protein first before consuming other foods. This is to ensure that their protein needs are met, which can be difficult for some bariatric patients to achieve, especially in the early stages after their weight loss surgery. Consuming adequate protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass while losing weight after bariatric surgery. Most gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and gastric band patients have a protein goal of 60-80 grams of protein/day.
Dr. Shillingford, MD, PA, is a board-certified surgeon specializing in advanced laparoscopic and weight loss surgery. His gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients are always encouraged to follow their post-op bariatric diet plan, and only to advance to the next stage when ready. Consuming foods too soon after surgery can cause negative side effects, including nausea and vomiting. For more information about gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, lap band surgery, or the post-op bariatric diet, check out Dr. Shillingford’s website www.drshillingford.com.
