Delicious and Nutritious: 5 Spring Recipes for Your 12-36 Month-Old

Spring is a season of renewal, and what better way to embrace it than by introducing fresh and wholesome recipes to your little one's diet? As a parent, you want the best for your 12-36 month-old, and these five recipes are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. The best part? They're easy to make, perfect for busy mums and dads.

1. Fresh Berry Oatmeal:

Ingredients:

1/4 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

1/4 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1 teaspoon honey (for babies over 12 months)

Instructions:

Cook oats according to package instructions using milk.

Mash the mixed berries or blend them for a smoother consistency.

Mix the berry puree into the cooked oatmeal.

For babies over 12 months, you can add a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

2. Veggie and Cheese Quesadilla:

Ingredients:

1 small whole wheat tortilla

2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons finely chopped steamed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots)

Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

Sprinkle shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla.

Add the finely chopped steamed vegetables on top of the cheese.

Fold the tortilla in half to cover the veggies and cheese.

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the quesadilla until both sides are golden brown.

Allow it to cool before cutting into toddler-sized pieces.

3. Sweet Potato and Spinach Mash:

Ingredients:

1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced

A handful of fresh spinach leaves

1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Steam the sweet potato until it's soft and easily mashed.

Steam the spinach leaves until wilted.

Blend the steamed sweet potato, spinach, and water until you achieve a smooth consistency.

4. Chicken and Vegetable Stew:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded

1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, potatoes)

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a saucepan and sauté the mixed vegetables until they start to soften.

Add the shredded chicken and chicken broth.

Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

5. Banana Avocado Smoothie:

Ingredients:

1 ripe banana

1/2 ripe avocado

1/2 cup plain yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative)

1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Blend the banana, avocado, plain yogurt, and water until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

These five recipes are not only easy for mums and dads to prepare but also cater to your little one's nutritional needs during the spring season. From the freshness of berries to the nourishment of vegetables, these dishes are sure to be a hit with your 12-36 month-old. So, get cooking and savor the joy of seeing your child relish these tasty and wholesome meals!