Summer is the perfect season to experiment with fresh flavors, vibrant produce, and refreshing textures that keep babies and toddlers hydrated, nourished, and curious about food. These baby-friendly recipes are packed with developmentally-appropriate textures and nutrition packed with flavor and no added sugar!
🥗 Mini Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- Small pasta (like orzo or mini shells) - this can be whole wheat, gluten-free, whatever you want
- Steamed carrots, peas, or zucchini (finely chopped)
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
Cook pasta until soft. Steam and finely chop veggies. Toss together with olive oil. Serve warm or chilled.
Why It’s Great for Babies:
- Easy to gum and self-feed
- Olive oil adds healthy fats for brain development
- Colorful veggies introduce sweet and earthy flavors
Tip: serve this cold for teething babies who love soothing textures.
🥚 Lil’ Deviled Eggs
Ingredients:
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Full-fat plain yogurt
- A pinch of turmeric (optional)
Instructions:
Peel and halve hard-boiled eggs. Mash yolks with yogurt and optional turmeric. Spoon filling into egg whites.
Why It’s Great for Babies:
- Eggs are a top allergen - early and frequent exposure is recommended
- Yogurt adds probiotics and creamy texture
-
Turmeric adds flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits
FAQ: Can I give eggs if my baby hasn’t tried them before? Yes! Start with a small amount and monitor for reactions. Eggs are one of the most important allergens to introduce early.
🥔 Baby Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- Boiled baby potatoes
- Olive oil or mashed avocado
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Boil potatoes until soft. Mash or cube depending on baby's skill. Mix with oil or avocado.
Add herbs for flavor, if desired.
Why It’s Great for Babies:
- Potato is gentle and filling
- Avocado adds fiber and healthy fats
- Herbs introduce bright flavors without added salt
Tip: Use purple potatoes for color contrast...babies eat with their eyes too!
🥒 Cucumber Yogurt Dip
Ingredients:
- Full-fat plain yogurt
- Grated cucumber (peeled)
-
Mint (optional)
Instructions:
Peel and grate cucumber. Mix into yogurt. Add finely chopped mint if desired. Chill before serving.
Why It’s Great for Babies:
- Cooling and hydrating
- Supports oral-motor development with a new texture
-
Easy for spoon-feeding or dipping soft veggie strips
FAQ: What can I serve it with? Try with roasted sweet potato wedges, steamed broccoli “trees,” or soft toast strips.
🍑 Peach & Oat Cobbler
Ingredients:
- Ripe peach (peeled and chopped)
- Quick oats
-
Breastmilk, formula, or water
Instructions:
Simmer oats with liquid and peaches until soft. Optional: bake in a ramekin for 5–10 mins at 375°F for a “cobbler” feel.
Why It’s Great for Babies:
- Whole grains and fruit = fiber + vitamins
- Naturally sweet with no added sugar
- Can be spoon-fed or scooped by hand for older toddlers
Tip: Make a big batch and freeze into small portions for future meals.
🌞 Bonus Tips for Summer Feeding Success:
- Offer foods chilled or room temp for heat relief
- Stay hydrated with fruit-forward purees and water-rich foods (melon, cucumber)
- Freeze leftovers in silicone trays for a quick grab-and-serve meal
-
Avoid honey, whole nuts, and raw veggies (choking hazards)
