The Nashville Food Project’s Blog
Summer offers children a welcome break from school, but hunger does not follow the academic calendar. When classrooms close, many families lose access to the dependable meals their children receive during the school year. Sweet Peas helps keep nourishing food within reach until those familiar school-day routines return.
Thanks in part to the support of our longtime partner Jackson Financial, Inc., we were able to provide nourishing meals to children across Middle Tennessee throughout the summer.
Nourish 2026 was a powerful celebration of food, community, and connection. From a beautifully collaborative meal prepared by top chefs to stories that highlighted the heart of our mission, the evening brought people together around a shared table and a shared purpose—to nourish Nashville.
Together, their rhythm has been simple and steady. One experimenting. One anchoring. Both caring deeply about the meals that leave the kitchen.
Macaroni and Cheese with Cauliflower
Sneaking veggies into this classic dish not only boosts nutrient content but also flavor! They’ll never have to know...
Serves 50
4 lbs elbow macaroni 1 lb cooked cauliflower florets 4 lbs cheddar cheese, grated 1/2 cup butter 3/4 cup flour 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 10 cups milk, divided 4 cups toasted, seasoned bread crumbs (made in house)
Preheat oven to 350. Make a roux by melting butter, add flour and stir, then cover and cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Slowly add milk and cheese until creamy and cheesy. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and divide into 2 full size catering pans. Add 1/2 pound cooked cauliflower to each pan and mix. Pour cheese sauce on top and mix well. Top with seasoned bread crumbs and bake for 30 minutes until heated through.