Beyond the Pumpkin: 5 Perfect Fall Veggies for Baby

Fall is finally here again, and it's the perfect time to start eating seasonally and locally with your baby. Health experts have long lauded the practice of eating foods that are in season; local fruits and veggies harvested at the peak of their season tend to retain most of their health benefits, because they have not been shipped across an ocean, or packaged with preservatives to survive weather conditions they are not accustomed to. Another benefit is that local and seasonal produce is cheaper, and usually more flavor than their out-of-season brethren. So when preparing foods for your little one, shopping in season becomes a huge advantage both in terms of health and cost. Here are 5 fall veggies that your baby will love, that have just come into season.

Kabocha Squash

This rich Japanese pumpkin is chock full of vitamin A, good for bone and tissue growth as well as fighting infection. Its rich, orange color will also entertain your baby, while its soft texture make it easy to eat and digest. Slice and bake your Kabocha until soft, and you're ready to go.

Beets

As the old adage says, beets are nature's candy, don't you know? These little rooted-powerhouses are naturally sweet, and rich in nutritional benefits for babies. Vitamin C boosts immunity, Folate reduces the chance of birth defects, and potassium is great for nerve and muscle function. Steam your beets until soft and then dice them before serving.

Spinach

It was Popeye's favorite meal for a reason. This amazing leafy wonder is full of Magnesium, vitamins A and C. Blend your spinach in a smoothie combined with other fall fruits to make a delicious treat baby will love.

Sweet Potato

These orange dynamos are delicious, colorful and full of healthy nutrients, the ultimate baby food, if you will. Potassium, vitamins A, C, and B6 are all perfect ingredients to a strong, healthy baby. And the fact that sweet potatoes are so delicious make it a perfect snack for baby. You can bake or roast these lil' tubers, or steam them to retain all of that orange goodness.

Cauliflower

The Cauliflower has had a rocky start among kids, to be sure, but a recent upsurge in popularity has put this superveggie on almost every menu across the country. And for good reason, it's delicious. Steam and puree your Cauliflower that'll make your baby crave it as much as we do.

Preparing these seasonal veggies at home will save you money, and allow you to control exactly what you are feeding your baby. To keep your baby's food as healthy as possible, steaming is always the best method to cook your vegetables. The Olababy SteamBowl is a great choice to help you gently steam your baby's veggies, to keep them happy, smiling and healthy.

General information, not medical advice. For guidance specific to your baby, talk with your pediatrician.