Introduce your little one to a wholesome and delicious snack with these Zucchini Pea and Rice Balls, the perfect baby finger food that’s as nutritious as it is fun to eat! Packed with shredded zucchini, protein-rich peas, and hearty cooked rice, these bite-sized morsels are gently baked to golden perfection for a soft yet satisfying texture that's easy for tiny hands to grasp. Enhanced with a hint of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a dash of garlic powder, these veggie-loaded rice balls are both flavorful and baby-approved. Ideal for busy parents, this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes and can be stored or frozen for meal prep convenience. Serve them as a standalone snack or pair with your baby’s favorite dip for a vibrant, nutrient-packed treat!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as possible.
Blanch the frozen peas by placing them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, blanched peas, cooked rice, egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and can hold together when shaped into a ball.
Using clean hands, form small, bite-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter) from the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush or lightly drizzle the olive oil over the top of each rice ball to help with browning and crisping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the balls are lightly golden and firm to the touch.
Allow the Zucchini Pea and Rice Balls to cool completely before serving to your baby or toddler to avoid any risk of burns. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Calories |
1387 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.4 g | 59% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.0 g | 50% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 230 mg | 76% | |
| Sodium | 3846 mg | 167% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 204.4 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.7 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.5 g | ||
| Protein | 44.4 g | 89% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 290 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 12.5 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 1001 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.