Butternut Squash Mac 'n' Cheese

Here's a delightful recipe for Butternut Squash Mac 'n' Cheese:

Butternut Squash Mac 'n' Cheese Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 30 minutes
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mac 'n' Cheese:

• 16 oz (1 pound) elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1-2 cups baby spinach (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Butternut Squash Sauce:

• Steam or boil the butternut squash and carrots until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
• In a blender, combine the steamed butternut squash, carrots, soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
• Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

2. Cook the Pasta:

• Cook the elbow macaroni or pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Sautéed Onions:

• In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent.

4. Combine Ingredients:

• Pour the butternut squash sauce into the pan with sautéed onions.
• Stir in smoked paprika (if using), nutmeg, and cooked pasta. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
• If desired, add baby spinach and stir until wilted.

5. Season and Garnish:

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency of the sauce with more almond milk if needed.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.

6. Serve:

• Divide the Butternut Squash Mac 'n' Cheese into bowls.
• Optionally, sprinkle extra nutritional yeast or vegan cheese on top for an added cheesy flavor.

7. Enjoy!

• Serve this creamy and flavorful Butternut Squash Mac 'n' Cheese immediately. It's a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic dish, perfect for cozy evenings.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or incorporating vegan cheese for an extra cheesy kick. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome Butternut Squash Mac 'n' Cheese!