As parents, introducing your little one to the world of solid foods can be both exciting and overwhelming. Baby-led weaning (BLW) has gained popularity in recent years, as it allows babies to take charge of their own food intake and develop important motor skills like self-feeding. But before you start offering your baby a variety of foods, it’s essential to ensure that they’re developmentally ready for this new chapter.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 nutritious BLW recipes perfect for beginners. From classic mashes to more adventurous options, our list includes a range of healthy and easy-to-make dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full-on meal, these recipes will help you get started on your baby’s BLW journey.
Avocado and Banana Mash
This sweet and savory mash is a delicious snack or breakfast option that combines the creamy texture of ripe avocados with the natural sweetness of bananas. Perfect for a quick and healthy treat!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1-2 ripe bananas
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or maple syrup (for added sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Peel the bananas and slice them into rounds.
3. In a large mixing bowl, mash the avocado flesh with a fork until smooth.
4. Add the banana slices to the bowl and mix until well combined.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the flavors (optional: add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Sweet Potato Fries
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into crispy, delicious fries with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or snack, these fries are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. Place the sweet potato strips in a bowl and drizzle with oil. Toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the sweet potato fries in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry.
5. Sprinkle salt and any additional seasonings over the fries.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through.
7. Remove from the oven when crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Broccoli Florets
This recipe yields perfectly cooked broccoli florets with a burst of green flavor and a tender texture, making it an excellent side dish or addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have delicious steamed broccoli on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt, to taste (optional)
– Optional: lemon wedges, garlic powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium-sized pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer (gentle bubbles) and cover the pot with a lid.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until broccoli reaches your desired level of tenderness.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tips:
– For an added burst of flavor, squeeze a lemon wedge over the steamed broccoli or sprinkle with garlic powder.
– Experiment with different seasonings or herbs to find your favorite combination.
Soft Carrot Sticks
Get ready to snack on a delicious and healthy treat! This simple recipe transforms regular carrot sticks into tender, flavorful bites perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and slice the carrots into sticks.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the carrot sticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Scrambled Eggs with Spinach
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of scrambled eggs with the nutritional goodness of spinach. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy mornings or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick 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 and stir gently to combine.
5. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are fully cooked and the spinach is wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Mini Chicken Meatballs
Mini Chicken Meatballs Recipe
These bite-sized chicken meatballs are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a topping for your favorite pasta dish. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Oatmeal Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy oatmeal pancakes! These wholesome breakfast treats are packed with rolled oats and subtle sweetness, making them a perfect treat for morning meal prep or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh fruit or syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, and milk until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Melt in the butter, then fold it into the batter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for a batch of 8-10 pancakes.
Roasted Butternut Squash Cubes
Roasted Butternut Squash Cubes Recipe
A simple and delicious way to bring out the natural sweetness of butternut squash, perfect as a side dish or added to salads and soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– Optional: garlic powder, cumin, paprika for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any desired additional spices until well coated.
4. Spread the squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa and Veggie Bites
These bite-sized quinoa and veggie bites are a nutritious and delicious snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. Made with whole grain quinoa, colorful vegetables, and a hint of cheese, these little morsels are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup finely chopped bell peppers
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, grated cheese, bell peppers, onion, mushrooms, and egg.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Fritters
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and flavorful zucchini fritters, perfect as a snack or side dish. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutritious goodness!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly. Add to the zucchini mixture and mix until just combined.
3. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, forming fritters.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peach and Pear Puree
This refreshing puree is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of peaches and pears, blended together in harmony. It’s great as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or as a side dish for grilled meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peaches, pear, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Soft Lentil Patties
These soft lentil patties are a great source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent option for a quick and easy meal or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of seasonings or herbs (e.g. paprika, chili flakes, thyme)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, oats, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. If using egg, add it to the mixture and mix until combined.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings or herbs.
4. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Cook patties in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes.
Baked Apple Slices
This sweet and crunchy recipe is a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apple slices (any variety)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Arrange apple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the apples.
5. Top each slice with rolled oats and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips: Use a variety of apple that holds its shape well, such as Granny Smith or Fuji. You can also adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
Cauliflower Tots
Transform cauliflower into crispy, bite-sized tots that are perfect for snacking or as a side dish. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, combine the processed cauliflower, cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small tots (about 1 inch/2.5 cm).
6. Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Wheat Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Satisfy your pasta cravings with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the wholesome goodness of whole wheat pasta with a flavorful tomato sauce. This classic dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the tomato sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato sauce in a serving dish. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana and Blueberry Muffins
Kick-start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful treat. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tartness of blueberries, all wrapped up in a crumbly muffin.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Green Beans
This classic recipe brings out the natural sweetness of green beans, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender and deliciously flavorful green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt to taste (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Place a steamer basket over the boiling water, leaving some space between the water and the beans.
3. Add the green beans to the steamer basket in a single layer, without crowding.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 4-6 minutes or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Soft Turkey and Veggie Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, this soft and flavorful turkey-based version is packed with nutritious vegetables and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, onion, carrot, parsley, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 nutritious baby-led weaning recipes perfect for beginners. From classic combos like avocado and banana mash, sweet potato fries, and soft carrot sticks to more adventurous options like mini chicken meatballs, quinoa bites, and zucchini fritters. You’ll also find pureed delights like peach and pear puree, baked apple slices, and whole wheat pasta with tomato sauce. These easy-to-make recipes are designed for parents who want to introduce their little ones to a world of flavors and textures. Perfect for babies just starting solids or already enjoying the baby-led weaning journey!
Leave a Reply