Which type of pasta are best for babies?
Generally speaking, all pastas are great! They are great sources of carbohydrates, which babies need to support their rapid growth and development. Legume-based pasta (such as chickpea, lentil, edamame) have the added benefit of providing more iron, protein, and fiber compared to rice and wheat-based pasta. However, they are more expensive so rotate through. Always focus on offering as much variety of foods as possible from the start. And just like toast and oatmeal, pasta is such a great vehicle for introducing your baby to all kinds of nutritious ingredients. Related post: Best First Foods
Which pasta shapes are best?
It may sound counterintuitive, BUT bigger is better and safer for babies who’ve just started solids. Fusili, rigatoni, ziti, penne, egg noodles, and lasagna cut into strips are all great options. I personally love fusili for this recipe because the sauce really clings to the grooves. If you’re spoon-feeding or encouraging your baby to use a spoon, small pasta like orzo, mini stars, or chopped angel hair/spaghetti will work well. Once they develop their pincer grasp (usually around 9-10 months), you can serve smaller shapes, like macaroni, orzo, orecchiette, or cut up large pasta.
What makes this the perfect baby pasta?
This simple tomato-based pasta sauce is:
Made without salt and sugarRich in iron – an extremely important nutrient for babiesA very forgiving recipe – you don’t have to be super exact with the ingredient measurements and can swap out any vegetables you wishPerfect for both baby led weaning and spoon feeding approachesDelicious enough for the whole family to enjoy together. As you can see in the image above, you can set aside a portion for baby and blend while serving the sauce as is (thick and chunky) for everyone else, unless you prefer a smooth sauce.Thick in texture so will be easier for your baby to scoop with their hands
Related Post: Best Iron-Rich Foods for babies and toddlers If you are looking for a tomato-free pasta sauce, try this creamy sweet potato sauce!
Ingredients
Vegetables: you really can use whatever vegetables you have on hand! I do recommend adding some type of sweeter vegetable to help counterbalance the tartness from the tomatoes. Extra bonus if it’s rich in vitamin C to boost iron absorptionTomato paste: did you know that this is actually a great source of iron? Not only that, it will really help to enrich the flavor to the sauce.Red lentils: I love using this variety, especially if planning to blend as the color stays red. But feel free to use yellow or green lentils if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Frequently asked questions
More baby-friendly pasta ideas
All of these meals were introduced to my baby during our first 3 months of starting solids. For 150+ veggie-loaded meal ideas and recipes, 80+ cooking videos, 100+ videos walking you through how to serve the meals to baby and the rest of the family, time and money-saving tips, and so much more, check out my Baby Led Feeding Journey Program. Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
