Back to Basics with a Great First Food

I hope everyone is staying warm on the Northeast during the snow, and for those in warm parts of the country.. well... enjoy the warmth :). So since I am snowed in I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to talk about a really great first food. I know so many babies right now that are approaching or have recently approached the beginning stages of eating and it is a very fun time for them and their parents. First foods should be easy to digest and very mild, and no combinations. It should be whatever you are feeding them in its purest form. Examples of great first foods are apples, pears, bananas, carrots, butternut squash, pumpkin, potato, sweet potato, peas. Nothing that will cause their little stomachs any gas pain.

Butternut Squash Puree

1/2 butternut squash, skinned, cubed, and steamed

Simply puree in food processor until smooth. You will get a thinner than mashed potato consistency but thicker than standard puree. If this is indeed your child's first food then definitely thin it out with breast milk or formula.

This puree makes 2 cups about. You can very easily freeze your puree in ice cube trays for approximately 3 months. As I have stated in previous posts steaming helps retain nutrition as opposed to boiling. Steaming butternut squash in a steamer basket will take approximately 20 minutes. I hope your little one enjoys his or her first food! You can also combine this puree with applesauce, carrots, sweet potato, pears for a good fruit/veggie combination.

As you know my little one is 18 months old now, so the only purees he really is eating is ones that I am putting in his pouches for him, but this would also make a great side dish on its own for your older baby or toddler or even your family with a little seasoning of your liking. However, as you know I like to transform my purees into something else that my whole family could enjoy. I decided to play around and this is what I got, butternut squash pasta sauce! It would be great over some spaghetti, which is my intention for dinner tonight. If you are intending on making both the puree for your baby AND the pasta sauce, then double the above recipe.

Pour 2 cups of butternut squash puree into a large pan over medium high heat. While stirring, add 3/4 cup chicken broth. Stir until the stock is completely absorbed. Add 1 tsp dried sage and salt and pepper to taste. Lastly stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir until completely thickened and the sauce comes together. When you are ready to serve add about 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese.

Lastly stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir until completely thickened and the sauce comes together. When you are ready to serve add about 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese.

ENJOY!!!