Baby and toddler recipes

🥒 Steamed courgette spears with tahini yoghurt dip

Soft steamed courgette spears with a creamy tahini and yoghurt dip, combining finger food practice with tastes of sesame and dairy. A gentle, Middle Eastern inspired lunch.

From 6 monthsPrep 5 minCook 6 minFreezes wellContains: Sesame, Milk

Makes about 8 spears

Ingredients

  • 1 medium Courgette (cut into finger-length spears, skin on)
  • half a teaspoon Tahini (smooth, well stirred)
  • 2 tbsp Yoghurt (plain full fat)
  • a few drops Lemon (juice)

Method

  1. Cut the courgette into quarters lengthways, then in half across, to make spears.
  2. Steam for 5 to 6 minutes until soft but still holding their shape.
  3. Stir the tahini and lemon into the yoghurt until smooth.
  4. Cool the spears to warm and serve with the dip.

Serving it to your baby

Leaving the skin on helps the spears hold together and gives baby something to grip. Introduce sesame and dairy separately before combining them. Baby may dip, or you can preload a spear with dip and hand it over. Always stay with baby while they eat and keep them sitting upright.

For the rest of the family

Griddle extra courgette for adults and serve with the dip seasoned with garlic, salt and sumac.

Storing and reheating

Cool, then keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Freeze on a lined tray, then bag up, for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until hot through, then cool before serving. Never reheat more than once.

How to introduce sesame · How to introduce milk

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Questions parents ask

Is courgette skin safe for babies?

Yes. It softens when cooked and helps baby hold the spear. Wash it well first.

Why do my courgette spears go mushy?

Courgette cooks quickly and turns watery if steamed too long. Check after 4 or 5 minutes; it should be soft but still in one piece.

OBubba gives general information based on UK guidance. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Every baby is different. If your baby has a known allergy, severe eczema or a medical condition, speak to your doctor or health visitor before starting solids. Learn baby first aid, and in an emergency call your local emergency number (999 in the UK).