Artemis Early Learning Fyshwick

For National Sea Week, our Preschool children enjoyed an exciting excursion to the National Zoo and Aquarium.

While our main focus was exploring the amazing aquarium and sea creatures, the children were also lucky enough to explore the entire zoo, making the day even more special. They loved seeing the different animals, noticing their unique shapes, features, and habitats.

The trip sparked lots of conversations about where animals live, how they move, and the different environments they belong to. We were so proud of the children for their fantastic listening ears and curiosity throughout the adventure. 🐠🦁🌿

🍅🐟 Artemis Kitchen Recipe – Basa with Fresh Tomato & Basil Sauce 🌿

We had such a lovely response to today’s meal, so here’s the recipe for families who would like to recreate it at home!

This dish is flavourful, nutritious and made without added salt. We also prepared a dairy-free version to ensure inclusivity for all children.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1 brown onion, finely diced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4–6 fresh tomatoes, chopped
• A few sprigs fresh thyme
• Fresh basil leaves (added at the end)
• Optional: ½–1 cup cooking cream

For the Fish
• Fresh basa fillets
• Fresh coriander, chopped
• Light drizzle oil

To Serve
• Plain steamed rice

👩‍🍳 Method

1️⃣ Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot and celery. Sauté for a few minutes until softened.

2️⃣ Add garlic and thyme. Cook gently (avoid browning).

3️⃣ Add chopped tomatoes and simmer until soft and slightly reduced.

4️⃣ Blend the mixture into a smooth sauce. Stir through fresh basil just before serving to keep its bright flavour.

👉 For a creamy version, add cooking cream to part of the sauce and simmer gently.

5️⃣ Cut basa into small portions (approx. 3–4 cm pieces). Lightly drizzle with oil and sprinkle with coriander.

6️⃣ Roast briefly, then steam in the oven for 10–15 minutes until cooked through and tender.

7️⃣ Serve fish separately and spoon sauce over the top. Pair with plain steamed rice.

🐟 Why Basa?
Basa is low in calories, high in protein and contains important nutrients such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin D and Omega fatty acids — making it a great choice for growing children.

We hope you enjoy making this nourishing, garden-inspired dish at home! Let us know if your little one helps in the kitchen 🌿✨

Naveen’s Red Kidney Bean & Vegetable Casserole

Our amazing chef Naveen is back in action — cooking in bulk for 100 hungry little tummies at Artemis! Here’s his delicious and nutritious Red Kidney Bean & Vegetable Casserole, scaled down for a family of four to try at home.

Ingredients:

Red kidney beans – 1 tin

Canola oil – 30 ml

Carrot – 1 medium

Onion – 1 medium

Pumpkin – 80 g

Zucchini – 1 medium

Fresh thyme – ½ punnet

Fresh basil – ½ punnet

Garlic – 5 g

Diced tomatoes – 1 tin

Water – 60 ml

Method:

Cut all vegetables (onion, pumpkin, carrot, and zucchini) into small cubes.

Open the red kidney bean tin, rinse and strain, then blend into a smooth puree with a little water.

Heat canola oil in a casserole pot. Sauté onion, carrot, pumpkin, garlic, and chopped thyme for 2–3 minutes.

Add the zucchini cubes and cook for another minute.

Stir in the tinned tomatoes and mix well. Add water and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes before placing the lid on.

Once the vegetables are nearly cooked, add the kidney bean puree and cook for another 10 minutes.

Finish with fresh basil, check the seasoning, and serve warm with steamed rice.

Packed with protein, colour, and flavour — this wholesome dish is a crowd favourite at Artemis!

This week, Naveen is showing us how to make a nutritious and child-friendly beef bolognese — full of fresh vegetables, lean beef, and rich flavours, without the need for added salt. Perfect for little tummies and family dinners!

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp canola oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 500 g lean beef mince
• 1 jar Dolmio Meatballs Pasta Sauce (or similar)
• Fresh herbs of your choice (e.g., parsley or basil)
• Pasta of your choice (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work well)

Method:

1. Heat the oil – In a large pan, heat canola oil over medium heat.

2. Add the vegetables – Stir in garlic, carrot, celery, onion, and thyme. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add the sauce – Pour in the Dolmio Meatballs Pasta Sauce and stir through the vegetables.

4. Cook the meat – Add lean beef mince. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and mash it well so it cooks evenly. Let it simmer until the meat is cooked through and the flavours have blended.

5. Finish with herbs – Skip the salt! Instead, stir through fresh herbs to naturally enhance flavour.

6. Serve – Spoon over cooked pasta of your choice and enjoy!

Why This Recipe is Great for Children:

Lean Beef – A great source of iron and protein, supporting children’s growth, energy, and development.

Vegetables – Carrot, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme boost vitamins, fibre, and immune-supporting nutrients in every bite.

Canola Oil – A heart-healthy oil, naturally low in saturated fat and rich in omega-3s. It supports brain development and provides healthy energy for growing children.

No Added Salt – Children’s kidneys are still developing, and too much salt can put pressure on their bodies. By leaving it out, we protect their long-term health while teaching them to enjoy the natural flavours of fresh food.

Fresh Herbs – Basil, parsley, or thyme add delicious taste and aroma naturally — helping children learn to love wholesome flavours without relying on salt.