Zucchini for babies can be safe from the age of eight months or more, depending on when your baby begins to eat solids. These are also called courgettes, and it is classified as fruit in botanical sciences. However, in cooking practices, zucchini is considered a vegetable from the Cucurbitaceae or squash family. Although this has been used in recipes of various cultures, a recent hype was given as a superfood for babies since it is packed with nutrients and various compounds with medicinal properties (1). Keep reading this post as we tell you about the safety and benefits of zucchini for infants.
Is Zucchini Safe For Babies?
Yes, zucchini is safe for babies. However, it is generally not recommended as baby’s first solid food. If you are planning to introduce it to your baby, then consult a dietitian first.
When Can You Introduce Zucchini To Babies?
Babies can eat zucchini once they are eight months old. However, if the baby has started their solids earlier than the age of six months (which is not recommended by the World Health Organization), then you can include zucchini in their diet before the eighth month.
Nutritional Value Of Zucchini
The striking feature of zucchini is the presence of some highly beneficial bioactive components. These components are known to have positive effects on human health (2). 100grams of zucchini, when cooked with skin (and without oil), provides the following nutrients. Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture (3) and World Health Organization (4)
Health Benefits Of Zucchini For Babies
Zucchini is considered to have a number of therapeutic properties. It is believed to cure asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and much more (5). Below is the list of potential health-promoting properties of zucchini. Zucchini has its health benefits. But does it have its share of side effects?
Side Effects Of Zucchini For Babies
There are no known adverse effects of eating zucchini. But in some cases, you might find an extremely bitter zucchini. The bitterness in zucchini indicates high amounts of cucurbitacin. Cucurbitacins are compounds that can be toxic and might lead to fatal complications. However, cucurbitacin poisoning is extremely rare, and usually occurs due to excess consumption of squash vegetables. Taste the zucchini before feeding it to the baby. If it tastes too bitter, then avoid feeding it to the baby.
Easy To Make Zucchini Recipes
Introduce zucchini as a puree, and then gradually make it part of other baby food. Below are some baby food recipes that incorporate the use of zucchini.
1. Zucchini and apple puree
This recipe is ideal for young babies who have not yet started chewing food. A smooth and creamy blend of zucchini with apple would give a pleasant taste and refreshing feel to the baby. You will need:
1 finely chopped medium-sized zucchini 2 finely chopped small apples Water
How to:
2. Zucchini and nuts smoothie
This recipe is ideal for babies between the age of eight to ten months. Besides zucchini, the recipe has beneficial fats from nuts. Nuts are also rich in some minerals, which are essential for physiological processes. However, before you introduce nuts for your baby, consult a pediatrician to stay informed on allergies. You will need:
1 ½ cups whole fat milk 1 cup chopped zucchini 2 bananas 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachio, and raisins) ¼ tsp cinnamon
How to: Tip: To get some variety, you can try this recipe with yogurt instead of formula milk or water.
3. Cheesy zucchini omelet
Omelet is most loved for its easy and quick preparation. Besides, it provides high-quality protein and other essential nutrients to your baby. You increase the protein content of the omelet by adding some cheese to it. You will need:
1 egg ½ cup onion, chopped finely ½ cup zucchini, grated 1 green chili, thinly sliced 2 tbsp parmesan cheese, grated 2 tbsp refined oil Black pepper, as required Salt, as desired
How to: Tip: To add more color and nutritional value, you can add capsicum and corn to this omelet.
4. Zucchini soup
You can feed a warm soup to your baby anytime during the day. Soup also makes an ideal early dinner for babies who can readily be put to bed after a sumptuous meal. You will need:
1 medium potato 1 medium zucchini 1 garlic clove 1 tbsp yogurt 1 clove garlic 1 ½ cup vegetable stock Olive oil
How to: Tip: To make this soup wholesome, you can add ½ cup of oats along with other vegetables, such as pumpkin and carrots.
5. Zucchini and Carrot Fritters
This recipe is good for babies who have begun chewing their food. It makes an ideal finger food, especially while traveling with babies. You will need:
1 medium carrot 1 medium zucchini 1 small onion ½ cup multigrain flour 1/3 cup ricotta cheese 1 egg ¼ tsp cayenne pepper Olive oil
How to:
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