As children transition from being babies into toddlers they begin to develop their independence and dinner times can be tricky. You may find yourself searching for new meal ideas to keep your toddlers interested and introduce them to new foods. Other times you might be just looking for ideas that are quick and easy ways to feed hungry little mouths.
Plenty of great toddler-friendly meals are quick and easy yet offer ways to introduce new foods. In this post, we'll explore some simple and tasty toddler meal ideas that will make mealtimes a breeze.
Peanut butter and banana sandwich
A classic toddler favourite, the peanut butter and banana sandwich is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients. Use whole-grain bread for a healthy option and spread a thin layer of organic peanut butter. Add sliced banana, and cut the sandwich into easy-to-handle portions.
Pitta bread pizza
Make your toddler their very own pizza by using pitta bread. Choose a whole-grain pitta bread and spread tomato puree over the top. Add your choice of toppings such as cheese, cooked meats, or cooked vegetables, and cook in the oven until the cheese has melted. You could even get your toddler involved in adding the toppings themselves.
Mini quesadillas
Mini quesadillas are a fun and customizable meal idea for toddlers. Simply place a tortilla in a frying pan, and add your toppings of choice. Grated cheese, cooked diced vegetables and soft cooked meats are all great options. Cook until the cheese melts, and any meat is heated through, and then cut into manageable triangles. Serve with veggie batons on the side such as cucumber sticks or a non-spicy salsa for a flavourful twist.
Snack plate
Sometimes it's getting time to cook food with an active toddler around, and often toddlers can be picky. Making a snack plate is a quick and easy meal idea. On a plate arrange chunks of cheese, cold cuts of meat like ham, sliced fruit or berries, hummus and breadsticks, cooked sweetcorn, and cucumber sticks. Pick foods in different colours to make the plate visually appealing and then let them pick away as you enjoy your own meal.
Veggie and cheese omelette
Omelettes are an excellent way to provide protein and sneak vegetables into your toddler's diet and are quick and easy to make. Whisk eggs, add a little milk, then pour the mixture into a non-stick frying pan. Add any finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, pepper, or cooked broccoli. Sprinkle some grated cheese and cook until the egg is set.
Mini meatballs
Homemade mini meatballs are a hit with many toddlers and are quick to make. Mix ground meat (such as chicken, beef, or veggie mince) with breadcrumbs, an egg, and finely chopped vegetables. Roll them into small balls and bake in the oven until cooked through. Serve with a dipping sauce like sugar-free ketchup and raw veggie sticks.
Vegetable pasta
Cooking pasta is a quick and easy option for a toddler meal. Choose their favourite pasta shape and once the pasta is fully cooked stir through a simple tomato sauce. If your toddler dislikes the texture of lumps in their pasta sauce you can add pureed cooked vegetables like spinach, carrots, or butternut squash for a serving of veggies.
These quick and easy meal ideas are not only simple to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients to support your growing child's needs. Toddlers can be picky eaters as they try new foods, however, it is important to offer them a wide variety of different foods and be patient as they discover their favourites. With these meal ideas in your arsenal, you can make mealtimes enjoyable, nutritious, and stress-free for both you and your toddler.
