15+ 2nd Trimester Pregnancy Recipes for Healthy Cravings

As you enter your second trimester, your body is undergoing significant changes. It’s essential to focus on nutrition that supports both you and your growing baby. Eating balanced meals with the right nutrients can help you feel energized and healthy during this exciting time.

Finding tasty and nutritious recipes can make meal preparation easier and more enjoyable. In this article, you’ll discover a variety of second trimester pregnancy recipes that are designed to provide the vitamins and minerals you need. These meals will help you stay satisfied while supporting your baby’s growth and development.

1) Skillet Ravioli Lasagna

Skillet Ravioli Lasagna is a simple and comforting dish perfect for your second trimester. It combines the flavors of traditional lasagna without the hassle of layering. You can easily prepare this meal in one pan.

First, cook ground beef in a skillet until browned. Then, add pasta sauce and water. Mix in frozen ravioli and let everything simmer until heated through. You can top it with cheese for a delicious finish.

This recipe is quick to make and is packed with nutrients that are great for you and your baby.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 package (25 ounces) frozen ravioli
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 190°C) until browned, then drain.
2. Add pasta sauce and water to the skillet and stir.
3. Mix in frozen ravioli.
4. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until ravioli is heated through.
5. Sprinkle cheese on top, cover, and let it melt.

2) Hearty Chickpea & Spinach Stew

Hearty Chickpea & Spinach Stew is a great meal choice for your second trimester. It’s packed with nutrients that are good for you and your baby. This comforting stew is easy to make and ideal for cozy nights.

You will enjoy the combination of chickpeas and spinach. Chickpeas provide protein and fiber, while spinach is rich in vitamins. Together, they create a delicious and filling dish.

Ingredients

• 2 (15 ounce) cans low-sodium chickpeas, rinsed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 pound turkey breast, ground
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Mash one can of chickpeas with a fork or potato masher; set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).
3. Add the ground turkey, seasoning with oregano and fennel seeds.
4. Cook until the turkey is browned.
5. Stir in the mashed and whole chickpeas, spinach, and broth.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Enjoy!

3) Calcium-rich Sardine Salad

Sardines are a great choice during pregnancy as they are high in calcium and omega-3 fatty acids. Making a sardine salad is simple and delicious.

You can use canned sardines, which are convenient and packed with nutrients. Add some crunchy celery and a bit of Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Mix in some Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor. This salad can be enjoyed on its own or served on whole-grain toast for extra nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 can sardines (3.75 oz), drained
• ½ cup celery, minced
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained

Cooking Instructions

1. Drain the sardines and place them in a bowl.
2. Add the minced celery, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and capers.
3. Mix everything together gently.
4. Serve on whole-grain toast or enjoy as is.

4) Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potato and black bean tacos are a tasty and nutritious option during your second trimester. They are packed with essential nutrients and are easy to prepare.

You just need some roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and a few toppings like avocado or salsa. This meal is not only healthy but also very satisfying.

To make it vegan, skip any cheese. You can warm up corn or flour tortillas to hold these delicious fillings. Add your favorite fresh ingredients for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 can of black beans (15 oz)
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Avocado (optional)
• Salsa (optional)
• Olive oil
• Spices (like cumin and paprika)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Toss with olive oil and spices.
3. Roast sweet potatoes for about 25 minutes or until tender.
4. Warm tortillas in a pan.
5. Fill tortillas with sweet potatoes and black beans. Add toppings as desired. Enjoy!

5) Lentil and Vegetable Stir-fry

Lentil and vegetable stir-fry is a great choice for your second trimester. It combines healthy lentils with colorful veggies, making it both nutritious and delicious. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.

You can use any vegetables you like, but broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots work well. The lentils add a nice texture, and you can serve it over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked lentils and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve over rice. Enjoy your meal!

6) Kale and Tofu Sauté

Kale and tofu sauté is a delicious meal that’s packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for the second trimester when you need extra energy. The combination of tofu and kale provides protein and vitamins.

Start by heating some oil in a pan. Add cubed tofu and cook until it’s golden brown. This adds flavor and a nice texture.

Next, toss in fresh kale and stir it for a few minutes until it wilts. You can add garlic for extra taste. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

This simple dish pairs well with rice or quinoa for a filling meal. Enjoy your healthy, homemade sauté!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch kale, washed and chopped
• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
2. Add cubed tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add kale and stir until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

7) Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Peanut butter energy bites are a tasty and nutritious snack, perfect for your pregnancy cravings. They are easy to make and require no baking. You can whip them up in just a few minutes!

These bites are packed with healthy ingredients like oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips. They provide protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.

You can customize them with your favorite nut butter or add extras like coconut. They are a great option to grab when you need a quick energy boost.

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Stir in oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls.
4. Place the bites on a plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Enjoy your energy bites!

8) Blueberry Lemon Cottage Cheese Muffins

These Blueberry Lemon Cottage Cheese Muffins are perfect for a tasty snack during your second trimester. They pack in protein from cottage cheese and antioxidants from blueberries. Plus, the bright lemon flavor makes them refreshing.

To make these muffins, you’ll combine simple ingredients. The whole-grain flour adds nutrition, while the blueberries provide sweetness and color. Enjoy these muffins as a quick breakfast or a healthy treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup whole-grain flour
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese, eggs, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
5. Fold in the blueberries.
6. Fill muffin cups with the batter and bake for 15-20 minutes.
7. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

9) Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites

Broccoli cheddar quinoa bites are a tasty and nutritious snack for your second trimester. They are simple to make and packed with healthy ingredients. The combination of quinoa, broccoli, and cheese offers protein and essential nutrients.

These bites are perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They are easy to grab and provide a filling option.

To make them, you’ll need cooked quinoa, finely chopped broccoli, eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese. They bake to a golden brown and have a delightful cheesy flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1½ cups finely chopped broccoli
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until combined.
3. Form small bites and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

10) Baked Salmon with Asparagus

Baked salmon with asparagus is a healthy and delicious dish perfect for your second trimester. This meal is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for you and your baby’s development.

To prepare, you’ll need fresh salmon fillets and asparagus. Adding lemon and garlic enhances the flavor, making it a delightful experience.

This dish cooks quickly. You can have it ready in around 15 to 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch of asparagus
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the asparagus, tossing to coat.
4. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet alongside the asparagus.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon and asparagus.
6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

11) Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto

Zucchini noodles with basil pesto make a light and tasty dish for your second trimester. This meal is simple and quick to prepare, perfect for busy days.

To start, you will need to spiralize your zucchini into noodle shapes. This adds a fun twist to your meal while keeping it healthy.

Next, mix the zucchini noodles with fresh basil pesto. The creamy texture and vibrant flavor of the pesto will enhance your dish. You can also add some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

This dish can be served as a main or a side. Enjoy it warm, or choose to eat it cold for a refreshing option.

Ingredients

• 2 zucchinis
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
• Olive oil (for cooking)

Cooking Instructions

1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly soft.
4. Stir in basil pesto until evenly coated.
5. Toss in cherry tomatoes if using. Serve and enjoy!

12) Quinoa and Bean Chili

Quinoa and bean chili is a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for your second trimester. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it great for your growing needs. Plus, it’s easy to make!

You’ll start by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, and spices in a pot. Then, add rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.

Let it all simmer until the quinoa is cooked through. You can adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth. Enjoy this hearty chili with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and chili powder. Sauté until soft.
3. Stir in quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Serve warm with toppings of your choice.

13) Avocado and Egg Breakfast Bowl

The avocado and egg breakfast bowl is a nutritious and delicious choice for your mornings. It’s easy to make and packed with healthy fats and protein.

Start by slicing an avocado in half and removing the pit. Carefully scoop out some flesh to create space for an egg.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet. Crack one egg into each half and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set. You can also add toppings like cheese or herbs for extra flavor.

This meal is satisfying and perfect for starting your day right!

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit.
3. Scoop out a little flesh to make room for the egg.
4. Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet.
5. Crack an egg into each half.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15 minutes or until egg whites are set.

14) Greek Yogurt Parfait with Berries

A Greek yogurt parfait with berries makes a tasty and nutritious snack during your second trimester. It’s easy to prepare and packed with vitamins and minerals for you and your baby.

Start by layering Greek yogurt with your favorite berries. You can use strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a colorful appearance.

Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness if you like. Top it off with some chopped nuts for a crunch.

This parfait is not only delicious but also a great source of protein. Enjoy it as a quick breakfast or a refreshing dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a glass or bowl, place 1/3 of the Greek yogurt.
2. Add 1/3 of the berries on top of the yogurt.
3. Drizzle with honey if desired.
4. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with berries on top.
5. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top before serving.

15) Vegetable and Cheese Frittata

A vegetable and cheese frittata is a delicious and nutritious dish that you can enjoy during your second trimester. It’s easy to make and packed with vitamins and minerals. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, making it very versatile.

To start, you’ll need some eggs and your favorite cheese. Add in fresh vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. This dish is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Ingredients

• 8 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 cup of mixed vegetables (spinach, broccoli, bell peppers)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like Gruyère or cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

3. Stir in salt, pepper, and vegetables.

4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

5. Next, pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook for 5 minutes.

6. After that, sprinkle cheese on top.

7. Lastly, transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until set.