Shrimp Cocktail

Cook the shrimp through until firm and opaque, never raw. Peel it and remove the shell, tail and the dark vein. Finely mince or mash the cooked flesh, or blend it into a purée. Shrimp is a common allergen, so offer it on its own and watch for any reaction.

Choose a ripe, soft tomato. Peel off the skin (it can bunch up and be hard to chew), scoop out the seedy core, and mash the flesh or stir it into a purée. If offering a piece to hold, give a soft finger-length strip of peeled flesh. Cherry and grape tomatoes are a round choking shape, so always quarter them lengthwise into small pieces and never serve them whole or halved.

Onion is usually a flavor base rather than a food on its own at this age. Cook it down until very soft and blend it into purées, mashes, or sauces. Raw onion is sharp and firm, so keep it out for now.

Cilantro (also called fresh coriander leaf) has a bright, fresh flavor and is a simple way to vary early tastes. Finely chop a small amount of the soft leaves and stir it through purees, mashed beans, soft rice, or yogurt. Chopping it small lets it blend in smoothly with the food.

A ripe avocado is one of the easiest first foods. Peel it, remove the pit, and mash the soft flesh smooth, or leave it slightly lumpy as your baby gets used to texture. You can also offer a thick finger-length wedge to hold and gnaw on. It is naturally soft and squishes easily between two fingers.

Lemon is very tart, so it is usually a flavoring rather than a food on its own. Squeeze a little juice into purees, plain yogurt, or cooked vegetables, or stir a small amount of finely grated zest into a dish. Remove all seeds first and wipe baby's face afterward, since the acidity can redden delicate skin.

Stir a small drizzle of olive oil into a smooth purée or soft mash to add calories and richness. Use it as a cooking fat for vegetables or grains, or fold a little into the finished food just before serving.