Now that your little one is not so little, it will be a tad bit more difficult to get him/her to eat everything that is healthy and nutritious. As your baby grows into a toddler, he/she will develop a taste for all things nice and it is not uncommon to find parents who are struggling to include more veggies in their toddlers’ diet. However, a few simple recipes can make this process much simpler.
Let’s take a look!
Veggie Pasta
Every toddler loves pasta and it’s easy to integrate vegetables in the recipe. Once you have cooked the pasta in hot water, drain the water and keep aside. In a separate saucepan, prepare the sauce. You can simply sauté some chopped garlic and mix it with tomato puree and ketchup and season it. You can add other herbs before mixing in the pasta. Now, to this sauce, you can add grated vegetables like carrots, beet etc. and your toddler won’t even notice!
Vegetable Cutlet Sandwich
Mash together boiled vegetables of your choice and mix them with seasoning and other spices like garam masala, chaat masala etc. You can also mix in some breadcrumbs for added crunch. Now make these into small flattened balls and shallow fry. Use these cutlets to make sandwiches with ketchup or mayo and surprise your toddler with a healthy and tasty meal.
Chips
Toddlers love fast and packaged food that they are usually denied. However, with this recipe, you can tempt them with healthier alternatives. Simply thinly slice sweet potatoes, carrots or zucchini and pat them dry. Now lay them out on a baking tray and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Now pop them in an oven till crispy - sprinkle salt before serving!
Mixed Juice
Toddlers love their dose of sweet fruit juice, especially in warm weather. This is a great way to sneak in vegetables into your toddler’s diet. Look for combinations that work - carrots and oranges; apples and beets etc.
All the best!
FAQ's
Q. How can I make vegetables more appealing to my toddler?
Ans.Toddlers often resist vegetables, but disguising them in favorite foods helps. Try recipes like veggie pasta or cutlet sandwiches, where grated or mashed vegetables blend into the dish. Adding mild seasonings or combining with sauces helps mask the taste, making vegetables tastier and more acceptable to picky eaters.
Q. What vegetables work best in veggie pasta for toddlers?
Ans.Carrots, beets, zucchini, and spinach are great choices for veggie pasta. They’re mild in flavor, easy to grate, and cook quickly. Once mixed into a flavorful tomato and garlic sauce, toddlers barely notice the veggies, yet they gain essential nutrients from these healthy additions without fuss or complaints.
Q. Are vegetable cutlet sandwiches healthy for toddlers?
Ans.Yes, vegetable cutlet sandwiches are a nutritious and balanced option. By using boiled and mashed vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and beetroot, mixed with light spices and shallow frying, they offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Pairing with whole-grain bread adds extra nutrition and makes a delicious toddler-friendly meal.
Q. How do I prepare healthy homemade chips for toddlers?
Ans.Slice sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini thinly and pat dry to remove moisture. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, spread them evenly on a baking tray, and bake until crispy. These homemade chips avoid harmful additives and excessive salt found in packaged chips, giving toddlers a healthier and tasty snack alternative.
Q. Can I mix fruit and vegetable juices for my toddler?
Ans.Absolutely! Combining fruits and vegetables is a great way to boost nutrition. Try carrot-orange, apple-beet, or apple-carrot combinations. These blends taste sweet and appealing to toddlers while sneaking in essential vitamins and fiber. Always use fresh produce, and limit added sugar for a wholesome and healthy drink option.
Q. What spices are safe to use in toddler recipes?
Ans.Mild spices like garam masala, chaat masala, cumin, and mild paprika are safe in small quantities. These spices enhance flavor without overwhelming sensitive toddler palates. Avoid strong, hot spices (like chili powder). Start with small amounts, observe your child’s reaction, and gradually adjust based on their tolerance and preference.
Q. How often should I include vegetables in my toddler’s diet?
Ans.Vegetables should be included in every meal to ensure balanced nutrition. Aim for at least 2–3 servings daily, incorporated creatively into pasta, sandwiches, soups, or snacks. Regular exposure helps toddlers develop taste preferences, making veggies a regular part of their diet without resistance over time.
Q. How do I handle a toddler who refuses veggies?
Ans.Patience is key. Start by mixing vegetables into familiar dishes like pasta or sandwiches. Offer small portions initially, celebrate small victories, and avoid pressuring your child. Be consistent, try different cooking methods, and pair veggies with dips or flavors your toddler already enjoys to encourage acceptance gradually.
Q. Can I prepare these recipes in advance for busy days?
Ans.Yes! Most recipes like veggie pasta, cutlet sandwiches, and baked chips can be prepared in advance. Store pasta and cutlets in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Chips can be baked ahead and reheated. Mixed juices are best fresh but can be stored briefly in sealed bottles.
Q. Are these recipes suitable for toddlers under 2 years?
Ans.These recipes are generally suitable for toddlers over 1 year, but avoid adding too much salt or strong spices for younger toddlers. Ensure vegetables are soft, cut into small pieces, and thoroughly cooked to prevent choking. Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to infants under 2.
