This Creamy Butternut Squash Bowtie Pasta is a quick, budget-friendly, veggie-packed comfort meal the whole family will love. With a silky coconut–butternut squash sauce, tender bowtie pasta, and plenty of hidden vegetables, it’s the perfect cosy weeknight dinner that comes together with simple pantry ingredients.
Servings 2
Cook Time 20 minutesmins
Ingredients
4ozbowtie pasta
1tbspolive oil
2-3clovesgarlic
1/4tspchilli powder
1/4tspcumin
1/4tspcurry powder
1cupfrozen mixed veggies
2cupsbaby spinach
1cupfull-fat coconut milk
1cupbutternut squash puree
Salt & pepper
Instructions
Cook the pastaCook bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water.
Sauté the aromaticsIn a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add spices and veggiesStir in the chili powder, cumin, and curry powder.Add the frozen veggies and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the creamy sauce basePour in the coconut milk and add the butternut squash puree.Stir well to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
Add the spinachAdd baby spinach and cook until wilted.
Combine with pastaAdd the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the sauce and mix until everything is well coated.Adjust thickness with a splash of pasta water if needed.
Season and serveAdd salt and pepper to taste.Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs or nutritional yeast if desired.
Notes
🌟 Optional Add-Ons
Want to boost the protein or change up the flavours? Try adding:
Crispy chickpeas
Grilled chicken
Tofu cubes
Roasted broccoli
A sprinkle of parmesan or vegan cheese
Crushed red peppers
🥡 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Keeps 3–4 days in the fridge.
Add a splash of water or coconut milk when reheating.
Not ideal for freezing (due to coconut milk texture), but okay if you don’t mind a softer consistency.