Bland Diet Recipes Vegetarian: Easy Meals for Sensitive Stomachs

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Following a bland diet can be challenging, especially for vegetarians looking to enjoy meals that are both gentle on the stomach and satisfying. Whether you’re recovering from an illness, managing digestive issues, or simply aiming for easy-to-digest foods, bland diet recipes offer comfort without overwhelming your palate.

The key is to focus on simple, wholesome ingredients with minimal spices and fats, allowing your digestive system to rest and heal.

In this post, we’ll explore a variety of vegetarian bland diet recipes that are nourishing, easy to prepare, and deliciously mild. From soft vegetable stews to gentle grain bowls, these recipes are designed to keep you feeling good while enjoying your meals.

Plus, with helpful tips and variations, you can customize these dishes to suit your preferences and needs. Let’s dive into the world of bland diet vegetarian cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian bland diet recipes are thoughtfully crafted to support digestive health without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. They are:

  • Gentle on the stomach: Using low-fiber, non-irritating ingredients that ease digestion.
  • Nutritious and balanced: Providing essential vitamins, minerals, and protein from plant-based sources.
  • Simple and quick: Minimal prep and cooking time, perfect for anyone needing easy meals.
  • Customizable: You can adjust textures and flavors to your liking while keeping the diet bland.

Whether you’re new to a bland diet or looking for fresh ideas, these recipes will help you maintain a soothing and tasty vegetarian meal plan.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice – a low-fiber grain that’s easy to digest
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced – soft and mild vegetable
  • 1 cup zucchini, peeled and chopped – gentle on digestion
  • 1 cup peeled potatoes, cubed – starchy and soothing
  • 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth – adds gentle flavor without irritation
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – healthy fat in small quantity
  • Salt, to taste – use sparingly
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional) – for mild garnish
  • 1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt – optional, for creaminess and probiotics

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smoothing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and dice the carrots, zucchini, and potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
  3. Sauté the vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in another saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the diced carrots and potatoes, sauté gently for about 5 minutes to soften.
  4. Add zucchini and broth: Stir in the zucchini and pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
  5. Blend for smoothness (optional): For a pureed texture which is often easier to digest, transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender or use an immersion blender until smooth. Add a little broth or water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  6. Combine and season: Stir the cooked rice into the vegetable mixture. Season lightly with salt, being careful not to overdo it.
  7. Add yogurt (optional): For a creamy touch and added probiotics, stir in plain low-fat yogurt just before serving.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“When following a bland diet, simplicity is key. Avoid strong spices, acidic ingredients, and high-fat foods to keep dishes soothing and easy on your digestive system.”

  • Vegetable swaps: You can replace carrots and zucchini with peeled squash or peeled sweet potatoes for variety.
  • Protein boost: Add soft tofu cubes or cooked lentils if tolerated, for extra plant-based protein.
  • Texture preferences: Blend the vegetable mixture fully for a soup-like texture or leave chunky for more bite, depending on what feels best on your stomach.
  • Herbs: Fresh parsley is mild and generally safe; avoid strong herbs like rosemary or thyme during sensitive phases.
  • Avoid: Onions, garlic, peppers, and acidic ingredients like tomatoes to maintain the bland nature of the recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 220 kcal
Carbohydrates 45 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 4 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 150 mg (low-sodium broth used)

Serving Suggestions

This bland vegetarian dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that are easy to digest. Here are some ideas:

  • Steamed or boiled green beans, peeled and soft
  • Plain toast or crackers made from white flour
  • Light herbal tea such as chamomile or ginger (in small amounts)
  • For dessert, try a mild fruit like ripe banana or applesauce

For more comforting recipes that are gentle yet delicious, check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or indulge in something sweet like the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

Conclusion

Adopting a bland diet doesn’t mean your meals have to be boring or flavorless. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, bland diet vegetarian recipes can be both nourishing and enjoyable.

This recipe offers a gentle balance of carbohydrates, vegetables, and optional creamy yogurt that supports your digestive health while providing essential nutrients.

Remember to listen to your body and adjust textures and ingredients as needed for your personal tolerance. As you continue your journey with bland diet meals, feel free to explore other gentle recipes like our flavorful Cheese Penny Recipe for a comforting twist.

Cooking with care and mindfulness can make all the difference in your healing and well-being.

📖 Recipe Card: Simple Bland Vegetarian Stew

Description: A gentle, easy-to-digest vegetarian stew perfect for sensitive stomachs. Mild flavors and soft textures make it soothing and nutritious.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup peeled and chopped zucchini
  • 1/2 cup yellow split peas, rinsed
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup cooked white rice
  • 1/4 cup peeled and diced apple

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add carrots, potatoes, and zucchini; sauté for 5 minutes.
  3. Add yellow split peas, vegetable broth, turmeric, thyme, and salt.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until vegetables and peas are soft.
  5. Stir in cooked rice and diced apple; cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve warm, ensuring the stew is soft and mild.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 40 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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