Green Beans for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve green beans to your baby, by age.

High in Vitamin CFiber-RichEasy to DigestImmune-SupportiveContains Plant ProteinLow in Sodium

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

Moderate (3/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Green Beans to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies in this age group, green beans should be cooked until very soft (steaming or boiling works well) and then either pureed to a smooth texture or mashed thoroughly to reduce the risk of choking. Whole beans or cut pieces can pose a moderate risk if not fully soft, as their cylindrical shape and stringy skin can be difficult for early eaters to manage. Ensure no stringy fibers or tough ends remain. If offering as finger food for baby-led weaning, cut very soft beans lengthwise into thin strips (about 1 cm / 0.4 in wide), or offer whole only if extremely soft and stringless.

Serving Instructions

Offer 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml or 0.5–1 fl oz) of green bean puree or mashed green beans as part of a varied meal, alongside foods rich in iron (like beef or lentils) and a source of healthy fat (such as olive oil or avocado). Vitamin C in green beans helps enhance iron absorption, so pairing with iron-rich foods is beneficial. Observe for any signs of intolerance or sensitivity.

How to Serve Green Beans to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

At this stage, continue to cook green beans until soft. You may offer them chopped into bite-sized, pea-sized pieces (about 0.5 cm / 0.2 in) for finger feeding, ensuring the beans are soft and not stringy. For children still developing their pincer grasp, continue with thin strips or long pieces that are easy to hold. Avoid raw or firm beans, which are a choking hazard. For added variety, you can mash or lightly chop as a mix-in with other soft foods (e.g., mashed potatoes, rice dishes). Always monitor closely.

Serving Instructions

Serve 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml or 1–1.5 fl oz) of cooked, soft green beans as bite-sized pieces, thin strips, or mashed. Offer as part of a balanced meal with a carbohydrate (such as cooked pasta or rice) and a protein source (like chicken, fish, or lentils). Add a little olive oil or butter for healthy fats. Encourage self-feeding while supervising, and avoid hard or stringy pieces.

How to Serve Green Beans to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

Older toddlers can enjoy green beans cooked to tender, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1–2 cm / 0.4–0.8 in). At this age, most children are ready to handle the whole bean if it’s soft, but always ensure the bean is not stringy and has no tough ends. Supervise closely, as long, firm beans can still be a hazard. Avoid raw beans until at least age four, as they're tough on digestion and a choking risk. Serving beans as part of casseroles or mixed dishes is a great way to add variety and nutrients.

Serving Instructions

Serve 3–4 tablespoons (45–60 ml or 1.5–2 fl oz) of green beans as bite-sized pieces or whole if very soft, as part of a meal with diverse vegetables, whole grains, and a protein source (eggs, fish, tofu). Green beans can now be offered with a dip or in mixed dishes. Ensure all beans are tender. Encourage self-feeding, and continue to supervise closely, especially if offering whole beans.