Ingredients
Method
Tap the time in each step to start a build-in timer and cook with a little more ease and flow. Be sure to have your volume up to hear the timer chimes!
- Roast the Squash:Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Peel and cube the butternut squash and toss with a little oil.Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and soft. Tip: Roast garlic alongside for an extra flavor depth.🌿 Mindful Moment: As you spread the squash on the tray, notice the warm orange colour and earthy scent. Imagine the oven slowly transforming firmness into softness.👧 Kid Prompt: “Can we tuck the squash into the oven like it’s taking a warm nap?”💬 Prompt: “What do you notice changing as the squash roasts? The smell, the colour, the feeling in the kitchen?”
- Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta in the salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.🌿 Mindful Moment: Watch the pasta swirl and soften in the water. Listen to the bubbling, steady and rhythmic.👧 Kid Prompt: “What shapes are the noodles making as they swim?”💬 Prompt: “How do you know when the pasta feels ready?”
- Make the Sauce:In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted squash, milk, cheese or nutritional yeast, garlic, olive oil or butter, salt, nutmeg, and mustard if using.Blend until smooth and creamy. Add the pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time to thin, as needed.🌿 Mindful Moment: Watch the ingredients turn silky and smooth. Pause to notice the warmth of the colour and the gentle hum of the blender.👧 Kid Prompt: “What does this sauce look like? A sunset, a cloud, or something magical?”💬 Prompt: “What feeling does this colour bring up for you?”
- Mix + Warm:Return the pasta to the pot and pour the sauce over, stir gently over low heat until warmed through and fully coated.🌿 Mindful Moment: Stir slowly, letting sauce and pasta meet. Feel the ease of everything coming together.👧 Kid Prompt: “Can we stir like we’re wrapping the noodles in a cozy blanket?”💬 Prompt: “What does ‘comfort’ taste like to you?”
- Top + Serve:Serve as is, or transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with toppings of choice, and broil for 5 minutes until golden and crisp on top.🌿 Mindful Moment: Before eating, pause. Notice the warmth rising from the dish and the anticipation in your body.👧 Kid Prompt: “What topping would make this pasta extra special today?”💬 Prompt: “What do you want this meal to give you right now? Warmth, calm, or energy?”
Notes
Storage and Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezer: Freeze the sauce in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat from Frozen: Warm the sauce in a saucepan with splash of milk or broth, stirring gently until creamy againVariations
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast and plant milk.
- Protein Boost: Add in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu crumbles for extra protein.
- Green It Up: Stir in chopped spinach or peas for added colour and fiber.
- Kid-Friendly Switch-Up: Use alphabet pasta or spirals and let kids “write” with their food.