- Choose a short-shape brown rice pasta (small shells, fusilli or penne cut in half). Use about 40 g dry pasta per toddler.
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until very soft but still holding shape — typically 8–10 minutes for brown rice pasta (check package and add 1–2 minutes for a softer texture suitable for babies). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, wash the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green tops and either finely dice the strawberries into pea-sized pieces or slice into thin wedges; for extra safety, you can very gently mash some pieces with a fork so they cling to the pasta and are easier to gum.
- Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cool running water to stop cooking and bring to a safe temperature. Allow the pasta to cool to lukewarm before serving.
- Toss the cooled pasta with the prepared strawberries so pieces stick to the pasta. Offer as finger food so the toddler can pick up short pasta shapes or small clusters with strawberry attached. Cut or mash any strawberry pieces that are large or firm enough to be a choking risk.
- Serve on a small plate and supervise closely during the meal. No added salt or sugar is necessary; the natural sweetness of the strawberries helps make this a toddler-friendly breakfast. If desired, reserve a few larger pieces for the toddler to practice pincer grasp.
Summary
A simple baby-led weaning breakfast of soft brown rice pasta mixed with fresh strawberries. Textures are solid (not pureed) and can be adjusted by cutting or gently mashing strawberry pieces to suit your child’s chewing ability. Designed for babies 10+ months learning self-feeding.
Storing
Store cooked pasta and prepared strawberries separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat pasta gently and cool to lukewarm before adding fresh strawberries to serve. Do not freeze once mixed with fresh fruit.
Potential allergies & cautions
Check for any rice or fruit allergies in your family history. Strawberries can cause sensitivities in some children — introduce a small amount first and watch for rashes or reactions. Always supervise meals and ensure pieces are an appropriate size to reduce choking risk.
Side effects
Some toddlers may have mild oral sensitivity to acidic fruits like strawberries; if you notice fussiness, rash around the mouth, or digestive upset, pause and consult a pediatrician.