Ingredients (Serves 1–2 babies or 1 baby + 1 adult portion)

• 1 tsp olive oil
  
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  
• 1 small zucchini, grated or finely chopped (optional)
  
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional for babies 8m+)
  
• 1 small tomato, chopped OR 1/4 cup no-salt-added canned crushed tomatoes
  
• 1–2 tbsp water, as needed
  
• 1–2 eggs
  
• Optional: pinch of dried oregano, parsley, or paprika (skip spicy seasonings)
  
  

Instructions: 

1. Sauté the Veggies

In a small nonstick pan, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add onion and bell pepper and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened. Add zucchini and garlic (if using) and cook 1–2 minutes more.

2. Add Tomatoes & Simmer

Add chopped tomato or canned tomato and 1–2 tbsp of water. Stir and simmer over low heat for 5–10 minutes until the veggies are very soft and the sauce is thickened. Mash gently with a fork or the back of a spoon if needed for younger babies.

3. Add the Egg(s)

Make a small well in the sauce and crack in the egg. Cover and let cook gently over low heat for 5–7 minutes, or until the white is fully set and yolk is soft-cooked.

4. Cool & Serve

Let the shakshuka cool slightly before serving. For babies under 9 months, you can mash or finely chop the egg. For older babies or toddlers, serve whole and let them explore!

Dietitian Notes: Why This Recipe Works for Babies

This meal offers a powerful combo of nutrients for growth:

• Eggs = protein, iron, choline, and healthy fats for brain development
  
• Tomatoes and bell peppers = vitamin C, which boosts iron absorption
  
• Olive oil = supports fat-soluble vitamin absorption and brain health
  
• Texture exposure = a great way to build oral-motor skills early on
  
  

Serve with a soft whole grain pita, toast strips, or mashed lentils on the side for extra variety.

Tips for Baby Feeding Success

• For 6–9 months: mash or finely chop the egg and sauce, serve with preloaded spoon or spread on toast fingers
  
• For 9–12 months: serve soft chunks and encourage self-feeding
  
• For toddlers: sprinkle with mild cheese or serve with a side of yogurt for dipping
  
  

Customize It!

• Add spinach or peas for a veggie boost
  
• Use sweet potato puree mixed into the sauce for extra sweetness and vitamin A
  
• Add soft cooked lentils or quinoa for a plant-protein boost
  
• For adults: top your portion with a little hot sauce or feta after serving baby!
  
  

Made This for Your Little One?

Tag me @thefoodstylistrd—I’d love to see your baby-led shakshuka moments! Whether it’s a high chair tray covered in tomato or a spoon-in-one-hand-egg-in-the-other situation, it all counts.