Baby-led weaning, or BLW for short, has taken the world of parenting by storm. The concept is simple: instead of spoon-feeding your little one pureed foods, you let them take control and feed themselves whole, soft foods from the start. It’s a game-changer for parents who value independence and want to encourage healthy eating habits in their tiny humans.
As a beginner to BLW, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. What are some easy, safe, and delicious recipes that your baby will love? In this article, we’ll explore 20 simple and nutritious recipes perfect for baby-led weaning beginners. From classic combos like avocado and banana mash to more adventurous options like quinoa and vegetable patties, we’ve got you covered.
Avocado and banana mash
This delicious and healthy mash is a great way to start your day or as a snack any time of the day. The creamy texture from avocados pairs perfectly with sweet bananas, making it a perfect treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1-2 ripe bananas
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocados until mostly smooth.
3. Peel the bananas and add them to the mashed avocado.
4. Use a fork to mash the bananas into the avocado mixture until well combined.
5. Add a pinch of salt to taste. If desired, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None! Just mash and serve.
Soft roasted sweet potato sticks
Transform sweet potatoes into crispy-on-the-outside and fluffy-on-the-inside sticks that are perfect as a side dish or snack. This simple recipe yields a deliciously soft and flavorful outcome.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and slice them into long, thin strips.
3. Place the sweet potato sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the sticks, sprinkling salt and any desired seasonings evenly.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed carrot batons
A simple and healthy snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a minimal amount of effort.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Peel the carrots and cut them into baton shapes (about 1/4 inch thick).
3. Place the carrot batons in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Steam the carrots for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the carrots from the heat and serve hot.
6. If desired, add melted butter and sprinkle with salt to enhance the flavor.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Scrambled eggs with spinach
Start your day off right with a nutrient-packed breakfast that combines the simplicity of scrambled eggs with the earthy flavor of fresh spinach. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat one tablespoon of butter or oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Add the chopped spinach leaves and stir gently to combine.
5. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the eggs are fully set and the spinach is wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Broccoli florets with hummus
This simple recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the crunch and nutty flavor of broccoli, paired with the creamy richness of hummus. It’s a quick and easy snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 4-6 cups florets)
– 1/2 cup hummus
– Salt to taste
– Optional: paprika, garlic powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the broccoli florets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Toss the broccoli with a pinch of salt and any desired seasonings.
4. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast the broccoli for 12-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
6. Serve warm with a side of hummus for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini turkey and vegetable meatballs
These bite-sized meatballs are a perfect snack or appetizer, packed with flavor from turkey, vegetables, and Italian seasonings. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, onion, zucchini, carrot, egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peach and pear slices
A classic combination of juicy peaches and buttery pears, perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a touch of crunch. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for a quick snack or a light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ripe pear, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Arrange the peach slices on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Top each peach slice with a round of pear.
4. Drizzle the honey mixture evenly over the fruit.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Whole grain toast fingers with almond butter
Kickstart your day with a delicious and nutritious snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. These whole grain toast fingers smothered in creamy almond butter are an excellent way to fuel up and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole grain bread rolls
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– Optional: sliced banana, honey, or chopped nuts for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the whole grain bread rolls into finger-shaped strips.
3. Place the toast fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of almond butter evenly onto each toast finger.
5. If desired, add sliced banana, honey, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the toast is lightly toasted and the almond butter is warm.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked apple wedges with cinnamon
Warm up with this sweet and comforting treat: Baked Apple Wedges with Cinnamon!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples, cored and cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the apple wedges to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Place the apple wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the apples.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting baked apple wedges with cinnamon!
Quinoa and vegetable patties
Get ready to pack a nutritious punch with these flavorful quinoa and vegetable patties, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
– Optional: additional seasonings such as paprika or chili flakes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, zucchini, carrot, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the mixture from step 1 and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Coat each patty with breadcrumbs, gently pressing to adhere.
5. Cook the patties in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Soft-cooked green beans
Elevate your green bean game with this simple recipe that yields tender, flavorful results. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add green beans, butter, and chicken broth.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and let cook for 8-10 minutes, or until green beans are tender but still crisp.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Zucchini and cheese fritters
Add a crispy twist to your vegetable game with these tasty fritters packed with zucchini, cheese, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, cheese, and parsley.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the salt. Mix well.
3. Add the egg mixture to the zucchini mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of fritters.
Lentil and vegetable stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious lentils and an array of colorful vegetables. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and can be served with crusty bread or over rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blueberry and yogurt drops
Transform plain yogurt into a delightful snack with these easy-to-make blueberry drops. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together yogurt, oats, and honey until well combined.
2. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.
3. Gently fold in blueberries.
4. Drop rounded spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These drops are ready to eat as soon as they’re set.
Tips:
– Use fresh or frozen blueberries depending on your preference and availability.
– If using frozen blueberries, thaw them first and pat dry with a paper towel before mixing.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy blueberry yogurt drops!
Roasted butternut squash cubes
Roasted Butternut Squash Cubes: A Delicious Side Dish
With its sweet and nutty flavor, roasted butternut squash is a perfect accompaniment to many meals. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a great side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– Optional: your choice of spices or herbs (e.g., cumin, paprika, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. If desired, add your chosen spices or herbs and toss to combine.
5. Spread the squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, flipping the cubes halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and vegetable stir-fry strips
This recipe is a classic combination of juicy chicken strips, crunchy vegetables, and savory stir-fry sauce, all cooked to perfection in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken strips and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour into the pan with the vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cauliflower and cheese bites
Transform cauliflower florets into crispy, cheesy bites that are perfect as a snack or appetizer. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, and salt.
4. Dip each cauliflower floret in the beaten egg and then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Place the coated cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle grated cheese over the cauliflower.
7. Drizzle with a small amount of vegetable oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oatmeal banana pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional pancakes by incorporating the natural sweetness of bananas and the heartiness of oats. These oatmeal banana pancakes are perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine mashed banana, egg, and milk. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil as needed.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed salmon flakes
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful dish with minimal effort, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon flakes (drained)
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the salmon flakes, water, and lemon juice.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the mixture starts to simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cucumber and cream cheese rolls
A refreshing summer treat that combines the cooling taste of cucumbers with the richness of cream cheese, wrapped up in a crispy roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– 4-6 egg roll wrappers (about 12 inches square)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cucumber slices, cream cheese, and parsley until well combined.
2. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the cucumber-cream cheese mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
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