1. Wash your hands and clean all utensils and surfaces before preparing the meal.
2. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear.
3. Place the rinsed rice in a small saucepan and cover with about 150–200 ml of water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook covered until the rice is very soft and breaking apart (about 18–22 minutes). If water evaporates, add small amounts of water so rice stays soft.
4. While the rice cooks, place the peas and spinach in a steamer basket or a small saucepan with a little water and steam or simmer gently until very soft (peas about 5–8 minutes; spinach 2–4 minutes). Drain and reserve a little of the cooking liquid.
5. Cook the salmon by steaming or poaching: place the salmon in a steamer or in a small pan with a little water, cover and cook until the flesh is opaque, flakes easily with a fork and there are no raw parts (about 8–10 minutes for a small piece). Ensure all bones are removed and discard skin and bones.
6. Combine the cooked rice, peas, spinach and flaked salmon in a blender or food processor. Add a small amount (a teaspoon at a time) of the reserved rice or vegetable cooking liquid to reach a smooth, spoonable puree suitable for your baby’s stage.
7. Blend until very smooth for younger babies (4–6 months) or leave a slightly thicker texture for older babies (7–10 months) if they are used to thicker purees.
8. Cool the puree to a safe feeding temperature. Test a small amount on your wrist — it should be lukewarm, not hot.
9. Serve the puree in a clean bowl. Feed in a semi-upright position and always supervise the baby while eating.

Summary

This simple lunch puree combines salmon, peas, rice and spinach to provide protein, iron-ish starch and vegetables in a smooth texture appropriate for babies. No salt, sugar or seasonings have been added.

Storing options

Refrigerate leftover puree in a sealed container and use within 48 hours. Freeze in small portions (ice-cube tray or baby food portions) for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly until steaming, then cool to a safe temperature before serving. Do not re-freeze once thawed.

Allergies and cautions

Fish (salmon) is a common allergen — introduce fish on its own first and watch for reactions before offering mixed dishes. Spinach can be high in nitrates; avoid giving spinach to infants under 6 months unless advised by a pediatrician. Remove all bones from salmon to prevent choking. Introduce new foods one at a time and wait a few days between introductions to monitor for any allergic reaction. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider if you are unsure.