Baby's First Pesto Pasta (Spinach Basil Delight)
A gentle, flavorful pesto sauce made with spinach, basil, almonds (or sunflower seeds), and olive oil, tossed with soft pasta for a nutritious and delicious meal perfect for introducing new flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup packed fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon sliced or slivered almonds (unsalted) - OR pine nuts - OR sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon water (as needed)
- 1 cup cooked small pasta (fusilli, mini shells, or ditalini)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions until very soft. Drain and set aside to cool slightly. (Adult supervision required for handling hot pasta and draining.)
While the pasta is cooking, wash the spinach and basil leaves thoroughly.
Place the spinach, basil, and almonds (or pine nuts/sunflower seeds) into a small food processor.
Add the olive oil to the food processor.
Begin blending the ingredients. If the mixture seems too thick and isn't blending easily, add 1 tablespoon of water.
Continue to blend until the mixture forms a smooth, vibrant green sauce. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed to ensure even blending.
The pesto should be fairly smooth, but tiny flecks of spinach or basil are fine. It should smell strongly of basil.
If using larger pasta shapes (like fusilli), chop the cooked pasta into smaller, more manageable pieces for the baby.
In a small bowl, combine the slightly cooled pasta with 1-2 tablespoons of the pesto sauce. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste and desired consistency.
Stir the pasta and pesto together thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated in the green sauce.
Check the temperature of the pasta to ensure it's not too hot for the baby.
Serve the Baby Pesto Pasta to your little one. Offer small pieces for hand-feeding, or assist with a spoon.
Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage.
Safety Notes
- Adult supervision required for cooking and handling hot pasta.
- Ensure pasta is cooked until very soft to prevent choking.
- Introduce almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds separately and in small quantities to check for allergies before combining in the pesto.
- Be aware of potential nut allergies. If there is a family history, consult with your pediatrician before introducing nuts.
- Cut pasta into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 150 kcal per serving
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 6g