- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1 tsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed (optional)
In a medium saucepan, bring 2" of water to a boil over high heat. Add a steamer basket and add the green beans, cover and cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender when pricked with a fork. Remove from heat and let cool.
Squeeze a little lemon juice (if using) on the green beans and toss, then cut in an age-appropriate way.
Age: 6+ months
Yield: 3-4 small portions for baby
Storage: you can store this recipe in the fridge in an air-tight container for up to 3 days.
Spices/Herbs: Adding spices to your baby’s foods is a great way to introduce more complex flavors at an early age. Some great spices and herbs to add to cooked green beans are a pinch of mild curry, garlic powder, and cumin, or you can add a pinch of chopped fresh parsley, chives, mint, and cilantro.
Puree for Self-Feeding: Yes, it can be done! You can offer purees and still allow your baby to lead the way with self-feeding.
- Place a few spoonfuls of purees directly on the tray or in a bowl for your baby to dip fingers into. Model how to dip your fingers into the puree and bring them to your mouth, to taste some.
- Offer your baby a pre-loaded self-feeding utensil and hold it out for them to grasp or set on their tray.
- Use a solid food as a dipper. You can also offer a soft stick-shaped piece of food, such as a soft roasted carrot or bread lightly toasted and cut into strips to dip into the puree.