Toddler-Friendly Pea Pesto Pasta
A vibrant, homemade pea pesto that's perfect for little ones moving to chunkier meals, and equally delicious for grown-ups.
- Prep5 min
- Cook10 min
- Total15 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
This pea pesto is a brilliant way to introduce fresh flavors to your toddler. With sweet peas, nutty pine nuts, and salty Parmesan, it's a sauce that appeals to young taste buds while being quick to whip up.
Blended until completely smooth, it's safe for babies and can be stirred into pasta shapes for an easy, nutritious meal. The recipe makes a small batch, just enough for a baby portion and a little extra for parents to enjoy.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- Place the frozen peas, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan, basil leaves, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula. Ensure there are no visible chunks of pine nuts, as this is important for babies.
- Cook the pasta shapes according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and stir in a small amount of the pea pesto. For a baby's serving, about one teaspoon of pesto should be sufficient.
- Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
💡 Tips
- If you prefer a chunkier texture for older toddlers, pulse the pesto a few times less.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden, to enhance their flavor.
- This pesto also works well tossed with cooked vegetables or spread on bread for a quick snack.
Inspired by a recipe from BBC Good Food