Summer squash
Usually introduced around 6 months
Prep warning
Cook summer squash, such as zucchini or yellow squash, until soft, so a piece mashes easily with gentle pressure. The skin is thin but can be slippery or a little chewy for new eaters, so you can peel it early on.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Steam, roast, or saute summer squash until soft and serve warm. Offer it as a finger-length spear the baby can hold with a bit sticking out of the fist, or mashed. Peeling it early helps, since the cooked skin can be slippery. Each piece should mash easily between two fingers.
Soft-cooked finger-length spears, or mashed.
9-12 months
Keep cooking summer squash soft. As the pincer grasp develops, offer bite-size soft cubes or small half-moon slices the baby can pick up. If the skin still seems tough or slippery, peel it.
Bite-size soft cubes or small half-moon slices.
12-18 months
Serve summer squash close to family texture, soft-cooked and cut into bite-size pieces or thin matchsticks. It works sauteed, roasted, or stirred into pasta, rice, and frittatas. Keep pieces small and soft.
Bite-size soft pieces or thin matchsticks.
Key nutrients
Common questions
When can my baby eat Summer squash?
Most babies can try Summer squash from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
Is Summer squash a choking hazard for babies?
Summer squash is considered a lower choking-risk food when served in age-appropriate sizes and textures. Follow the cut sizes above and always stay close during meals.
Is Summer squash a common allergen?
Summer squash is not one of the major food allergens. Any new food can still cause a reaction, so keep an eye on your baby the first few times.
General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.
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