Lunches That Won't Make You Feel Bloated
You want to eat healthy—but all those beans and tofu are wreaking havoc on your stomach. Instead, try these dishes; they're free of
the carbohydrates that can cause problems—but still really good for you.
By Lynn Andriani
A Way to Get Your Greens That's Not a Huge Salad
Although bok choy is sometimes referred to as Chinese cabbage—and it
is technically a member of the cruciferous vegetable (aka cabbage) family—it won't make you feel stuffed in the way some other cabbage can. Its firm stalks hold up well in soups, such as this tasty one, which also includes ginger, shiitake mushrooms and egg noodles.
Get the recipe: Spicy Noodle Hot Pot
A Salad Reminiscent of Sunday Dinner
Roasted root vegetables won't inflate your belly and are great atop crisp greens, since they provide a lovely contrast in textures—even when served cold. This simple recipe includes roasted parsnips and carrots (though sweet potatoes would be great, too), plus walnuts for crunch and pears for a touch of sweetness (if you're sensitive, though, omit the fruit).
Get the recipe: Roasted Carrot and Parsnip Salad
A Safe Carb Dish with a Surprising Amount of Good Things
Eating pasta midday can make you feel as if you've swallowed a balloon, but rice is generally safe. This dish is a hearty combination of basmati rice, fresh spinach, lemon zest, dill and chopped pistachios—so you'll feel full but not overstuffed.
Get the recipe: Rice with Spinach and Pistachios
The Hummus Alternative
If you love snacky lunches, such as hummus and pita, but have trouble with chickpeas, try baba ghanoush—it's an eggplant-based spread that goes equally well with a variety of dippers. Non-bloating ones include carrots, celery, cucumber and green beans.
Get the recipe: Minted Baba Ghanoush
A Creamed Veggie Soup (Minus the Cauliflower and Other Culprits)
Carrots are a terrific way to get your vitamins and still be kind to your intestines. This brightly colored pureed soup pairs the sweet root vegetable with spicy curry powder, and you can add either plain nonfat yogurt (another belly-friendly food) or light coconut milk to make it extra smooth.
Get the recipe: Curried Carrot Soup
Published 04/14/2014
