A Healthy & Delicious Pasta for Babies and Toddlers
If you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorful meal for your little one, this Creamy Pesto Pasta is a fantastic option! Unlike traditional pesto, which can be heavy on oil and salt, this baby-friendly version is made with healthy ingredients like basil, nuts, and cream cheese for a creamy, wholesome twist.
Perfect for baby-led weaning and toddler meals, this recipe is packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins—and it’s super easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Baby-Friendly Pesto Pasta
✅ Packed with Nutrients: Basil, nuts, and cream cheese provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamins.
✅ Mild & Creamy: Adjust the texture and flavor for your baby’s stage.
✅ Freezer-Friendly: Make the pesto ahead and store for quick meals.
✅ Great for Self-Feeding: A perfect way to introduce pasta to little ones.
What You’ll Need
✔ ½ cup nuts (walnuts and peanuts) – Provides healthy fats and protein.
✔ 2 cups packed basil – Loaded with antioxidants and iron.
✔ 5 garlic cloves – Adds mild flavor and immune-boosting benefits.
✔ 2 tbsp olive oil – Healthy fats for brain development.
✔ Salt (for 1 year+), pepper – Optional for toddlers.
✔ Juice of ½ lemon – Adds freshness and vitamin C.
✔ 2 tbsp cream cheese (or paneer/tofu) – Adds creaminess and extra nutrition.
✔ Cooked pasta of choice – Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred.
How to Make Baby-Friendly Pesto Pasta
Step 1: Dry Roast the Nuts
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Lightly toast the walnuts and peanuts in a dry pan over low heat for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
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Remove the skins by rubbing them between a towel.
Step 2: Blend the Pesto
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Add the roasted nuts to a food processor and pulse until powdered.
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Add the basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt (if using), and pepper.
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Blend again, adding water as needed for a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
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Add cream cheese, paneer, or tofu to the pesto and blend again.
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Adjust the texture by adding more cream cheese or water if needed.
Step 4: Toss with Pasta & Serve
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Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
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Mix the pasta with the creamy pesto sauce and serve warm.
💡 Tip: Cut pasta into small pieces for younger babies or use fun shapes like spirals for easy grabbing!
Serving & Storage Tips
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For Younger Babies (6-9 months): Serve as a smooth pesto dip or mix with mashed veggies.
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For Toddlers (10 months+): Offer with pasta or spread on toast for a delicious snack.
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Storage: Keep extra pesto in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze in small portions.
A Wholesome & Flavorful Meal for Little Ones
This Creamy Pesto Pasta is a nutrient-packed, baby-friendly dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a great way to introduce herbs and healthy fats to your baby’s diet while making mealtime exciting and flavorful!
Make Mealtime Even Easier!
Simplify self-feeding with Little Grubbers’ 3-in-1 Baby Spoon—designed for tiny hands and growing appetites!