Protein Artist

Category: Pack-a-Punch Lunch for post-op bariatric weight loss surgery protein meals

Pack-a-Punch Lunch for post-op bariatric weight loss surgery protein meals.

  • Protein Squash Breakfast Muffin Bread Egg Sandwich

    Protein Squash Breakfast Muffin Bread Egg Sandwich

    If you have 2 minutes to put the ingredients together, this breakfast muffin will not disappoint! Scramble an egg and chop prepare a salad while the muffin is baking.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, or mashed cooked vegetable such as butternut squash, etc.  (may be replaced with oil if desired)
    • 2 tablespoons coconut flour
    • 1 egg beaten
    • 1 tablespoon coconut milk carton or can, or milk, or milk substitute
    • 1/4 teaspoon baking powderDirections:
      Spray a a coffee cup or soup mug  with non-stick oil spray and mix all ingredients inside the mug with a fork. Make sure all the vegetable pieces are well mashed. It’s okay if your vegetable was cooked with spices for a previous dish—it will make your muffin more tasty. Microwave on HIGH about one and half minute or until toothpick placed in center comes out clean.  Turn mug upside down and muffin will pop onto plate. Serve with your favorite breakfast sandwich fillers.
  • Omega + C Orange Salmon Endives, 19.5 grams protein, 290 calories

    Omega + C Orange Salmon Endives, 19.5 grams protein, 290 calories

    IMG_3423The perfect winter lunch to pack in the nutrients and prevent the sniffles.  Endive is enriched with Vitamin A and ß-carotene, which have antioxidant properties. Carotenes convert to vitamin A inside the human body.  The orange delivers your vitamin C right in between the smoked salmon, which is high in omega fatty acids. All ingredients combined are sweet and moist, perfect for chewing.

    Belgian endives has creamy white, compact leaves.
    Belgian endives has creamy white, compact leaves.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 ounces skinless boneless smoked salmon
    • 4 Tablespoons Cream Cheese, with chives if possible
    • ½ naval orange
    • 4 endives slices

    Directions:

    Peel and slice orange into small bits.  Reserve half in airtight container and refrigerate. Cut or tear salmon into small pieces. Peel off four endive slices from the bunch. Spread each slice with one tablespoon cream cheese.
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    Evenly divide the orange slices onto the cream cheese. Pack the salmon tightly in between the orange slices.  This is a perfect lunch to prepare the day before and take to work.   It is worth investing in a quality orange, so that it is sweet and juicy.  My favorite brand of smoked fish is available at Costco or Sam’s Club, “Paramount Reserve”

  • Roasted Chestnut Apple Salad, 10.2 grams protein, 217 calories

    Roasted Chestnut Apple Salad, 10.2 grams protein, 217 calories

    IMG_3050This Fall-Flavored salad tastes even better after it is refrigerated for a day. Roasted chestnuts are amazing in flavor and packed with nutrition. It is lower in fats like other nuts but higher in soluble fiber.

    Roasting is easy.

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    Buy fresh chestnuts and slice a slit halfway across the chestnut. Place in a pan in the oven. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.

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    Peel and discard shell and furry skins.

    Ingredients:

    • ½ purple onion, chopped  (4c)
    • 12 roasted chestnuts, about 6 ounces after peeling  (3g, 207c)
    • 1 Granny Smith apple  (.6g,116c)
    • 4 cheddar cheese sticks, thinly sliced (24g,340c)
    • ¼ cup craisins or dried cranberries (120c)
    • 3 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped, about 1 teaspoon
    • 2 teaspoons lemon juice

    Dressing:

    • 1/4 cup greek yogurt  (12g,65c)
    • ⅛ cup Pacific Soymilk (1.252.5g, 17.5c)
    • 1 teaspoon ground allspice

    Directions: Chop and mix all ingredients and refrigerate.

    Yields: About one pound of salad, 4 portions of 6 ounces each servings, 10.2 grams protein, 217 calories per serving.

  • “The Sandwich” – flourless gluten-free protein powder bread, 20 grams protein, 262 calories

    “The Sandwich” – flourless gluten-free protein powder bread, 20 grams protein, 262 calories

    IMG_3065This sandwich relies on two slices of Cornmeal Cheddar Sandwich Bread which has 15 grams protein, 187 calories.  If you had RNY gastric bypass, then you should eat only half of the sandwich, and reserve the second half for the next day. It will tastes nearly as fresh the next day.  The lettuce is important, because it provides a watery and crunchy tool for chewing the deli.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 slices of Cornmeal Cheddar Sandwich Bread (30g,374c)
    • 2 ounces deli meat, or 2 thick slices (10g,90c)
    • 2 teaspoons fat thousand island dressing (60c)
    • 1/2 lettuce leaf

    Directions:

    Insert bread slices into toaster. Toast until sizzling. This is important, because you want the bread to be crispy and not spongy. Spread dressing on both slices.
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    Layer with meat and lettuce.  Cut in half, and refrigerate one half for another meal.

    Total sandwich: 40 grams protein, 524 calories. Suggested serving, half sandwich, totals to 20 grams protein, 262 calories.

     

     

     

  • Edamame Frozen Microwave Meal, 12 grams protein, 220 calories

    Edamame Frozen Microwave Meal, 12 grams protein, 220 calories

    IMG_2818This is the by far the fastest meal to heat up and enjoy.  You can freeze the mixture in a microwave safe container and heat up for lunch straight from the freezer.  The onions will caramelize in the microwave, the cheese will melt, and the edamame will be infused with the teriyaki flavor. This practical meal will surprise you. What a perfect lunch to grab for work.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 ounce feta cheese, crumbled (5g,60c)
    • 2 ounces edamame (5.5g,61c)
    • 1 tablespoon purple onion, chopped (4c)
    • 1 Tablespoon dried cranberries / craisins (43c)
    • 2 Tablespoons soymilk (1.25, 17.5c)
    • 1 teaspoon Teriyaki (.25, 40c)
    • ⅛ teaspoon salt

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    Directions: In a microwave safe bowl, layer ingredients in the order listed. Microwave on high for 3 minutes. Stir well. Enjoy.

    Yields: A single 4-ounce portion, 12 grams protein, 220 calories

  • Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Bites, 10 grams protein, 319 calories

    Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Bites, 10 grams protein, 319 calories

    IMG_2796In this recipe, I used gluten-free spaghetti squash and full fat cream cheese. You can substitute with lowfat, but do make sure the nutrition facts show you that there will be 2 grams protein per 2 tablespoon serving. Many whipped brands cheat on that and only have 1 gram at most.

    These little alfredo bites are perfect for a warm meal, but also tastes delicious straight from the refrigerator. Store 3 per zip-lock bag and freeze. Grab one bag in the morning when heading to work. It will defrost in time for lunch.

    Pre-made wonton wrappers can be found in your supermarket's produce section, often near the mushrooms and soy products.
    Pre-made wonton wrappers can be found in your supermarket’s produce section, often near the mushrooms and soy products.

    Ingredients:

    • 12 wonton wrappers (.75g,20c*12=9g,240c)
    • 6 ounces spaghetti squash, cooked (.9g,45c)
    • 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese with chives (16G,800C)
    • 4 tablespoons Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (7.9g, 88c)
    • ½ cup soymilk (5g, 70c)
    • 3 teaspoons minced garlic  (1.2g, 12c)
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • ¼ teaspoon cumin
    • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

    Directions:

    • Preheat oven to 350.
    • Spray a large muffin pan with oil spray.
    • Press a wonton wrapper into each muffin cup.
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    • Add cream cheese, soymilk, and spices in a small saucepan.   Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally.
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    • When smooth and creamy, add squash and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
    • Drop two tablespoons of mixture into each cup.IMG_2792
    • Bake at 350 for 15 minutes. Allow to cool.
    • Serve warm, room temperature, or cold after refrigerating.

    Yields: 12 appetizers, less than 1 ounce each.  Serving size: 3 pieces at 10 grams protein, 313 calories.

     

  • Liver Pate Appetizer Cups, 18.6 grams protein, 237 calories

    Liver Pate Appetizer Cups, 18.6 grams protein, 237 calories

    IMG_2775Not only are these the fanciest little appetizers on the block, but your co-workers will envy your meal options. The dried fruit adds a sweet touch, topped with crispy onions for an exotic and tasteful meal.  You will almost forget that you are eating organ meat.

    Ingredients:

    • 12 ounces Chicken Liver Pate (63.48g, 531c)
    • 12 won-ton wrappers from package (.75g,20c*12=9g,240c)
    • ½ cup chopped dates (2g, 240c)
    • ¼ cup  French Fried Onion, crushed (180c)

    Directions:

    Spray a large muffin pan with oil spray.  Press a wonton wrapper into each muffin cup.

    Drop one heaping tablespoon of liver pate into each cup.
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    Evenly divide chopped dates, pressing lightly into the liver mixture.
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    Top with crushed french fried onion.
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    Bake at 350 for 20 minutes. Allow to cool.
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    Serve warm, room temperature, or cold after refrigerating.

    Yields: 12 appetizers, roughly 1 ounce each.  Serving size: 3 pieces at 18.6 grams protein, 237 calories

  • Instant Chia Chocolate Pudding, 17 grams protein, 174 calories

    Instant Chia Chocolate Pudding, 17 grams protein, 174 calories

    IMG_2651Chia seeds are loaded with nutrients with very few calories. All the carbs are actually from fiber, and most of the fats are Omega-3s.  Chia is a true superfood all in a tiny seed, packed with antioxidants: Fiber, Protein, Omega-3’s, Calcium, Manganese, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Potassium, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2.

    Look for brands that have even more protein, such as Tresomega Organic @ 3 grams per tablespoon (used in this recipe). Chia seeds can be added to your baking for added protein, or sprinkled into yogurt as a crunchy topping. In this recipe, no starch or dairy is used for the pudding, and the seeds make the liquid congeal after a few hours in the fridge.

    Ingredients:

    • ½ cup Chia Seeds  (24g, 480c)
    • 1 cup soymilk (10g, 140c)
    • 2 Tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (28c)
    • 2 packets artificial sweetener
    • 1 teaspoon instant coffee
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Directions:

    Nuke in microwave for 20 seconds. Mix mixture well.  Nuke for another 20 seconds and mix, making sure the coffee has dissolved.  Refrigerate for three hours or overnight.

    Yields: 2 pudding cups, 4 ounces each,  17 grams protein, 174 calories

  • Egg and Meat Muffin Cups, 14 grams protein, 129 calories

    Egg and Meat Muffin Cups, 14 grams protein, 129 calories

    3 minim muffins with 1 ounce topping
    3 minim muffins with 1 ounce topping

    If you are having a productive day and want to cook meals for the week, this gluten-free and flourless muffin recipe will be your perfect investment of your time. I love to prepare these in little containers and then eat them throughout the week for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner; whatever catches my fancy.  It tastes like a meat stew in a cup, or maybe even a breakfast corned beef hash in a muffin.  Enjoy it fresh and warm, cold, or room temperature at work.  The topping will taste a bit like vegetable cream cheese, and will add just the right amount of glide for chewing.  You won’t even miss your bagel.

    If you are lactose-intolerant, just

    Ingredients:

    • 6 eggs  (36g,420c)
    • ½ cup shredded cheese (14g, 160c) [skip if you are lactose intolerant].
    • 4 ounces deli or cooked corned beef (24g, 160c)
    • ¼ cup salsa  (20c)
    • 1 green pepper  (1.8g, 40c)
    • ½ Large onion  (1g, 20c)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ¾ teaspoon black pepper

    Topping: Skip if you are lactose intolerant.

    Note: with ¾ teaspoons black pepper, this will be very savory.  You can use ½ teaspoon instead if you like your food mildly spicy.

    Directions:

    • Mix topping ingredients and place in refrigerator to set.
    • preheat oven to 350.
    • Chop everything in food processor and pour into muffin pan.
    • For a larger muffin pan, pour 2 ounces per cup.  The cups should be ¾ full.
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    • For a mini muffin pan, 2 ounces will fit into three cups. The cups will be nearly full.
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    • Bake @ 350 for 30 minutes.
    • Remove from pan and allow to cool.
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    • Top two 2-ounce muffins with ½ ounce of topping each (about 1 tablespoon).
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    • Store each muffin in a GladWare Mini Round Food Storage Containers.
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    • Store in refrigerator, and take to work the next day.  Can be eaten at room temperature.

    Yields:

    • 7 servings of 4 ounces muffins, total 11 grams protein, 114 calories.
    • Greek Yogurt topping: 3 grams protein, 15 calories
    • Total meal of muffin with topping: 14 grams protein, 129 calories
  • Turkey Teriyaki Lunch Rolls, 17 grams protein, 115 calories

    Turkey Teriyaki Lunch Rolls, 17 grams protein, 115 calories

    This will be extremely juicy and moist, and will be absolutely no problem to chew and swallow without drinking. You will be surprised how much the teriyaki makes the greek yogurt taste disappear and melt into an amazing dressing. One roll should suffice as a 4 ounce meal.

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    Ingredients:

    • 1 ounce greek yogurt  (3g,15c)Lawry's Teriyaki with Pineapple
    • 2 teaspoons Lawry’s Teriyaki with Pineapple (20c)
    • 2 slices deli turkey breast  (14g,80c)
    • 1 large lettuce leaf
    • 2 thin red pepper strips (red and yellow)

    Prepare your sandwich roll:

    IMG_2489

    • Mix the greek yogurt with the teriyaki.
    • Spread ⅓ mixture over a large flat lettuce leaf.
    • Add one slice turkey deli.
    • Spread ⅓ of the mixture over the turkey slice.
    • Lay 2 slices of pepper vertically.
    • Add the second slice of turkey deli
    • Spread the remaining ⅓ of yogurt mixture.
    • Begin to fold the roll. Bend the north/south ends inward, and roll the west end towards the east end.
    • Store in a re-usable deli container or zip-lock bag.