Cherry Banana Quinoa, Stage 2 Meals

It's summertime and cherries are back in season. I love sweet cherries. Not only are they delicious, but they are loaded with nutrients and disease-fighting antioxidants. Cherries can also boost the immune system and help when your baby is constipated.  Cherries mixed with banana and quinoa is one of my childrens' favorites.  It makes a healthy and yummy breakfast not only for your baby, but for the rest of your family as well!

Look for sweet cherries-Bing, Lambert and Rainier varieties are the most popular. Avoid sour cherry varieties. The darker the cherry, the more flavonoid and antioxidant-rich it is. Cherries are currently in season, but frozen are okay to use as well. Cherries no not continue to ripen once they are picked; look for ones that are firm and plump with shiny skin. They will stay fresh in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for about a week. Cherries stain, take care when preparing and serving!

This recipe is suitable for babies 7-9 months and up, toddlers, big kids and adults. Always make sure the consistency of your baby's food is one she can handle. Before combining foods, make sure your baby has tried each one individually.

What you'll need:

1/2 cup of quinoa - rinsed in a strainer under cool running water

1/2 banana

1 cup of cherries - washed, cut in half with pit removed

*Bring 1 cup of purified water to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Add the quinoa, let boil for 1 minute then reduce heat to low, cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed.

*Place the cherries and banana into a food processor and pulse until smooth. If using frozen cherries, steam for about 5 minutes before blending.

*Mix cherry banana mixture with the quinoa and serve.

*Store the extra in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.  



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