If you’re a parent, you know the struggle of getting your little one to eat healthy. You may have tried everything from purees to sneaking veggies into their meals, but it seems like nothing works. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In fact, studies show that only 22% of infants and toddlers in the US are consuming the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables. But what if I told you that there are 6 finger foods that your baby will not only love but also provide them with the necessary nutrients to grow strong and healthy?
In this article, we’ll explore these 6 foods, including eggs, avocado, sweet potato, salmon, broccoli, and blueberries, and share some tips on how to prepare them.
6 Nutritious Baby Finger Foods
Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein for your little one and can be prepared in various ways. Hard-boiled eggs are a fantastic option for a quick and easy snack on the go. Scrambled eggs are another delicious option, and you can add some mashed avocado or cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
It’s important to note that babies can start eating eggs at six months of age, but it’s recommended to introduce the yolk first as it contains more nutrients than egg white. As always, consult with your pediatrician before introducing eggs into your baby’s diet, especially if there is a family history of egg allergies.
Avocado
Moving on to the next nutritious finger food, avocados are packed with healthy fats and essential vitamins and minerals. They’re also incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways, making them a great choice for introducing new flavors and textures to your baby’s diet. Avocado can be mashed, pureed, or chopped into small pieces depending on your baby’s age and developmental stage. It’s also a great addition to other purees, adding creaminess and a boost of nutrition.
Another great thing about avocados is that they’re easy to prepare and store. Simply cut the avocado in half and remove the pit, then scoop out the flesh with a spoon. You can mash it with a fork or puree it in a blender or food processor. Leftover avocados can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two.
For a tasty and nutritious snack, try spreading mashed avocado on a piece of toast or serving it alongside some cooked vegetables or fruit. You can also mix it with scrambled eggs or add it to homemade baby food recipes. Just be sure to use ripe avocados that yield to gentle pressure and avoid giving your baby any of the skin or pit.
The twin’s favorite was an avocado and banana puree and we used this machine to make all our purees at home.
Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are another nutritious and delicious finger food that babies will love. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Plus, their natural sweetness makes them a hit with little ones.
There are many options for preparing sweet potatoes as a snack for your baby. You can bake them and then mash them up or cut them into small chunks for your baby to self-feed. Another option is to steam sweet potato cubes and then blend them into a puree for younger babies.
To add even more flavor and nutrition to sweet potatoes, you can sprinkle on some cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix them with other fruits and vegetables like bananas or green beans.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making sweet potato fries. Simply cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss them with a bit of olive oil and salt, and bake them in the oven until crispy. Your baby will love the fun shape and tasty flavor of these homemade fries.
Salmon
Salmon is a great option for a baby’s diet as it is packed with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and eye development. It can also provide protein for growing muscles and bones. To make salmon finger food, you can bake or grill a fillet until it is cooked through and then cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Pairing salmon with a simple dipping sauce, such as a mix of Greek yogurt and dill can add even more flavor and nutrition to the dish. Plus, the easy-to-grasp shape of the salmon pieces makes them perfect for little hands.
Broccoli
Broccoli is another nutritious finger food that your baby will love. This versatile veggie can be steamed, roasted, or boiled until it’s soft enough for your little one to eat. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Plus, broccoli is high in fiber, which can help keep your baby’s digestive system healthy.
To prepare broccoli for your baby, start by washing the florets thoroughly. Then, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. You may want to steam or boil the broccoli until it’s soft enough for your baby to chew. Once it’s cooked, let it cool to a safe temperature before serving.
If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to the broccoli, you can try sprinkling it with a little bit of grated cheese or mixing it with pureed sweet potato. This combo adds some extra nutrients and a delicious taste that your little one will love.
Blueberries
Another delicious finger food that will tickle your baby’s taste buds is blueberries. These tiny berries pack a big nutritional punch, making them a great addition to your little one’s diet.
Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, blueberries can help boost your baby’s immune system and aid in digestion. Plus, their natural sweetness makes them an easy sell for even the pickiest eaters.
To serve blueberries to your baby, simply rinse them off and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. They’re a great snack on their own or paired with some plain yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, feeding your baby healthy foods doesn’t have to be a battle. These six finger foods – eggs, avocado, sweet potato, salmon, broccoli, and blueberries – are not only delicious but also nutrient-dense, providing your little one with everything they need to grow strong and healthy.
This post is all about baby finger foods that are delicious and nutritious even for the pickiest of eaters.
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