Wondering how to prepare baby spinach puree? Calcium-rich spinach purée is beneficial for older infants, and our straightforward step-by-step directions will help you create this nutritious dish with ease.
Spinach, which is rich in antioxidants, is a good vegetable for infants six months and older. Due to the presence of nitrates, however, some pediatricians recommend feeding your newborn commercially made spinach puree instead of fresh spinach. Contact your physician, then review our recipe for spinach puree.
Step 1: Choose and Purchase Spinach
Use frozen or fresh spinach to prepare the puree; fresh spinach is preferable during the fall, winter, and early spring. When purchasing it fresh, choose spinach with dark green, blemish-free leaves that are not wilted. Since spinach is included in the Environmental Working Group’s “dirty dozen” list of foods with the highest levels of pesticide residue, it is advisable to purchase organic spinach if possible.
Step 2: Wash the Spinach
There is no need to clean frozen spinach. If you are using fresh spinach for your puree, remove the stems and soak them in cold water for two minutes. Thoroughly rinse under running cool water and wipe dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Cook Spinach
Steam spinach till tender (about five minutes). Three minutes of cooling water rinsing will stop the cooking process.
Step 4: Puree Spinach
In a food processor or blender, puree spinach until smooth. Add water as needed to achieve the appropriate consistency; use breast milk or formula for water for a creamier texture.
Step 5: Serve
Serve pureed spinach alone or in conjunction with other dishes. Spinach is a perfect complement to other vegetables, cereals, and proteins. Try combining pureed spinach with:
- Brown rice
- Chicken
- Sweet potatoes
- Whole-wheat pasta
- Russet potatoes
- Carrots
- Cheese sauce
- Salmon
Step 6: Refrigerate or Freeze Leftovers
Refrigerate leftover spinach puree in BPA-free containers for up to three days. Freeze leftovers for up to three months, and allow them to defrost overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
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