By: @pediatric.dietitian.
Meals don’t have to be elaborate or require cooking to be nutritious. We wanted to share some of our no cook lunch and dinner options for babies and toddlers. These meals are easy and quick to throw together and require absolutely no cooking. They are also balanced and nutritious.
Cottage cheese is very nutritious and includes fat, protein, carbohydrates, and calcium which are all important for a growing child. Cottage cheese is also easy to add multiple flavors to using fruit or vegetable purees, cut up fruits or vegetables, and herbs and spices. Toddlers who can safely eat softer crackers can have a small charcuterie-style plate with cheese, crackers, fruits, and vegetables.
Smoothie bowls are a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your child’s diet. For older toddlers, you can put toppings like dry cereal and fruit on the side as a topping. You can use any type of milk you like to make the smoothie bowl; other additions include nut butters, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. It is best for your child to eat a smoothie bowl since they are learning skills such as using utensils and “eating” the smoothie vs. sipping.
Canned salmon is very nutritious and easy to use. You can make salmon salad using some canned salmon, mashed avocado, and lime juice. You can serve it, as is to your baby. Or you can put it on top of toast or with some crackers for your toddler. Add some fruit and veggies to the side and you have a complete meal.
Beans like chickpeas are high in protein and iron. They are also a convenient pantry staple. You can season some with some store-bought pesto or you can use hummus to make a sandwich or as a dip or puree. Black beans also taste good with some lime juice, olive oil, and cumin.
Avocado toast is an easy family favorite for many. You can top with hemp seeds, sesame seeds, or grated cheese for an added protein boost. Serve with some fruits and veggies for a colorful meal.
You can use regular or non-dairy yogurt to make a yogurt bowl. Add a tablespoon of your favorite nut or seed butter to the yogurt and mix. This will make the yogurt a bit less messy since it makes it thicker, and also add a boost of protein and healthy fat. You can offer fruits and dry cereal to dip in the yogurt or as a topping.
Hope you find some easy meal inspiration here. You don’t have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen to make nutritious meals.
Need more nutritious meal inspiration? Check out Pegah's breakfast ideas for babies and toddlers!
