As a new parent, one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences you’ll have is introducing your little one to solid foods. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide what to start with. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 simple Stage 1 baby food recipes that are not only delicious but also nutritious for your tiny tot.
From classic pureed fruits and veggies like sweet potatoes and carrots, to more adventurous options like peach puree and spinach and apple blend, we’ve got you covered. In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for making mealtime a breeze.
Pureed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be easily transformed into a silky-smooth puree. This recipe is perfect for those who love sweet potatoes but want to add some variety to their meals.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
4. Scoop out the flesh into a blender or food processor with the melted butter, heavy cream (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more cream if desired for a thinner consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs or chives (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes + blending time
Mashed Avocado
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe brings the creamy goodness of avocados to the table.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Scoop the avocado flesh into a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the salt, lemon juice, and garlic (if using) to the bowl with the avocado.
4. Use a fork to mash the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Notes:
– For a creamier mash, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or Greek yogurt to the mixture.
– Experiment with different seasonings like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
Steamed and Blended Carrots
Transform humble carrots into a creamy and delicious side dish with this simple recipe. By steaming and blending, you’ll unlock the natural sweetness of these root vegetables, perfect for pairing with your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt to taste
– Optional: butter or cream for added richness
Instructions:
1. Place chopped carrots in a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cover with a lid and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Transfer cooked carrots to a blender with 2 tablespoons of water.
5. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, adding salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with butter or cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Puree
This simple and delicious recipe transforms fresh apples into a smooth and flavorful puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety)
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash, peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple pieces and water.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and easily mashed with a fork (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining chunks.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Mash
A classic comfort food made with ripe bananas and a touch of sweetness, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add the softened butter and mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Stir in the honey until well combined.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness (optional).
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Peach Puree
Peaches are at their peak ripeness during the summer months, making them perfect for creating a delicious and refreshing puree. This simple recipe showcases the sweet and juicy flavor of ripe peaches, ideal for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a base for smoothies.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Wash and pit the peaches, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the honey and water to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Transfer the puree to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Butternut Squash Puree
This recipe yields a creamy and comforting puree that’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups, sauces, and baked goods. With its sweet and nutty flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel, de-seed, and cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. Place the squash cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Scoop out the flesh and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
8. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear Puree
Transform ripe pears into a silky smooth puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pears, sugar, water, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears are tender and the mixture is smooth (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the puree to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use ripe but firm pears for the best results.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– Store leftover puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Green Bean Puree
A delicious and healthy side dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite meals. This creamy puree is made with fresh green beans, garlic, and a hint of lemon, resulting in a flavorful and comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the green beans and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic and butter. Toss until the butter is melted and the green beans are well coated.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add a squeeze of freshly squeezed lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pea Puree
This simple recipe brings out the sweet and tender flavor of fresh peas, perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for various dishes. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy the taste of spring in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the peas and cook for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add extra richness and creamy texture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Puree
This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy zucchini’s natural sweetness and texture. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tasty puree perfect for topping pasta, using as a dip, or adding to soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchinis and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Roast the zucchinis in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop the cooked zucchini flesh into a blender or food processor.
7. Add chicken broth and blend until smooth and creamy.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oatmeal Cereal for Babies
A nutritious and gentle oatmeal cereal perfect for little ones, made with rolled oats and breast milk or formula.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
– Breast milk or formula to desired consistency
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the oats and sugar (if using).
2. Add breast milk or formula to the oat mixture, stirring until smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more milk or formula.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a simple mixing process that takes just a few minutes.
Tips:
– Always supervise your baby while they’re eating.
– Start with small amounts and gradually increase serving sizes as your baby becomes accustomed to the cereal.
– Store leftover cereal in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Rice Cereal
A simple and wholesome breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings. This recipe makes a delicious and crunchy rice cereal that’s free from added preservatives or artificial flavorings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free option)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice and rolled oats.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt almond butter and honey until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the rice-oat mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted and crunchy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pureed Pumpkin
A simple and delicious way to bring out the natural sweetness of pumpkin, perfect as a side dish or used in recipes like soups, breads, and muffins.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the pumpkin halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop out the flesh and puree in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Apple Blend
This refreshing spinach and apple blend is a perfect side dish or light lunch option. The sweetness of the apples pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of spinach, making it a delicious and healthy combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 large apple, diced (any variety, such as Granny Smith or Gala)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves and diced apple.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Toss again to combine and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Blueberry Puree
Fresh blueberries are a staple in many desserts, but they can be tricky to work with. This simple puree recipe makes it easy to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of blueberries in a variety of applications, from topping yogurt or oatmeal to using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries with cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the blueberries, sugar (if using), and water.
3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Continue blending for an additional 30 seconds to ensure the puree is well combined.
5. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any seeds or pulp.
Cooking Time: None
Prune Puree
Prunes are often overlooked as a versatile ingredient, but when cooked down into a puree, they become a delicious addition to various dishes. This sweet and savory prune puree is perfect for using as a topping or mixed with other ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine prunes, water, honey, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the prunes are soft and the liquid has thickened into a puree.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Use as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream, or mix with other ingredients like grains or nuts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Puree
Transform cauliflower into a rich and creamy puree perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of butter until evenly coated.
3. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Allow the roasted cauliflower to cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine cooled cauliflower, remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Puree
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli, blending it with garlic and cream to create a delicious side dish or baby food. Perfect for picky eaters or as a healthy addition to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain the broccoli and add it to a blender with garlic, cream, and butter. Blend until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Beetroot Puree
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of beetroot by roasting it, then blending it with garlic and cream to create a rich and creamy puree. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups or sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot
– 3 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beetroot in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. Let the beetroot cool slightly, then peel and chop into chunks.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the beetroot, garlic, and cream. Blend until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 simple and nutritious baby food recipes perfect for stage one feeding. From classic purees like sweet potatoes, avocado, and carrots to fruits like apples, bananas, and pears, these recipes are easy to make and gentle on your little one’s digestive system. You’ll also find recipes that combine veggies with fruits, like spinach and apple blend, as well as single-ingredient options like butternut squash and zucchini purees. Plus, get started with oatmeal and rice cereals for a smooth transition. Try these 20 recipes to introduce your baby to a world of flavors and textures!
