Springtime Delights: 5 Nutritious and easy-to-follow recipes for your little one this season

As the season of renewal unfolds and nature awakens with vibrant colours and fresh scents, it's the perfect time to introduce your little one to the delicious flavours of spring. From seasonal fruits to nutrient-packed vegetables, there's an abundance of ingredients available in the UK that are not only healthy but also perfect for growing children. 

Here are five nutritious and easy-to-follow recipes that will delight your little one's taste buds while providing essential nutrients for their development.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• Handful of fresh strawberries
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel the banana and wash the strawberries.
2. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
3. Pour into a child-friendly cup and serve immediately.

2. Spring Vegetable Frittata

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup diced cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Whisk the eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the chopped vegetables and grated cheese.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased ovenproof dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until set and golden brown.
5. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into child-sized portions.

3. Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or parmesan)
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mash the steamed broccoli with a fork.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and beaten egg to the bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

4. Pea and Mint Hummus

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked peas
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup tahini
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
2. Add more olive oil or water if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve with vegetable sticks or wholegrain crackers for dipping.

5. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 small apple, peeled and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the rolled oats and milk.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced apple and ground cinnamon to the saucepan and continue to cook until the oats are creamy and the apple is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the honey if using.
5. Allow it to cool slightly before serving it to your little one.

These five recipes are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients to support your child's growth and development. So why not embrace the flavours of spring and introduce your little one to a world of culinary delights? Happy cooking and happy eating!