Benefits of Zucchini:

• High in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps with iron absorption

• Contains beta-carotene, needed for healthy eyesight

• A good source of potassium, an important electrolyte needed for fluid balance, muscle contractions, and normal blood pressure

• It contains water and fiber, which support digestion and can help with constipation
  

When to Introduce Zucchini:

Zucchini can be introduced to babies as early as +6 months of age when they are ready for solid foods.

Preparation Tips:

• Choosing Zucchini: Select fresh, firm zucchini with vibrant green skin. Organic options are preferable to minimize exposure to pesticides.
• Cleaning: Wash the zucchini thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt or residue.
• Cutting: Cut the zucchini into small, bite-sized pieces for easier cooking and pureeing.
  
  

How to Cut Zucchini:

Zucchini is one of the easiest veggies to cut and serve in many ways. Here are five options for cutting zucchini:

• Zucchini puree (STEAMED, 6-9 M)
• Zucchini Planks (thick & steamed +6M, thin)
• Diced Zucchini (steamed, 9-12M)
• Grated Zucchini (steamed, 9-12M)
• Zucchini Noodles (steamed, 9-12M)

Cooking Methods:

• Steaming: Steaming is the preferred method as it retains the most nutrients. Cut the zucchini into small pieces and steam in a steamer basket over simmering water for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
• Boiling: If steaming is not an option, you can boil the zucchini pieces in a pot of water for a similar duration.
• Roasting: For a slightly different flavor, you can roast zucchini pieces in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until tender.

Baby Puree ideas

zucchini is added to many vegetables and fruits for babies +6 months of age.

zucchini recipes for toddlers:

1. Baked Zucchini Fries

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Toss zucchini fries with olive oil.

Optional: Coat fries in breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese.

Arrange fries on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly golden.

2. Zucchini Fritters

Ingredients:

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and herbs.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Drop spoonfuls of batter into the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.

3. Zucchini and Pasta

Ingredients:

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
• Then add zucchini and cook until tender.
• Finally, add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat and Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Zucchini Storage:

1. Freezing: For longer storage, pour the cooled puree into ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This allows you to thaw individual portions as needed. Frozen puree can be stored for up to 3 months.
2. Refrigeration: Store leftover puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Safety Considerations:

• Choking Hazard: Always supervise your baby while they are eating and cut food into appropriate sizes to prevent choking.
• Allergies: While rare, some babies may have an allergy to zucchini. Introduce it cautiously and monitor for any reactions.  

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