Mac 'n' Cheese (gourmet style)

LEMON PARMESAN PASTA

I have had this recipe for at least 10 years. Its always yummy and unbelievably easy!

ONE: Gather your ingredients.

1. 3/4 cup half & half

2. 1 T butter

3. 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice (sometimes I used bottled).

4. 1 T grated lemon peel (sometimes I leave this out)

5. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (from the deli, not Kraft in a cardboard can!)

6. 1 1b pasta (I like bow tie pasta, or small penne). Spaghetti is good too.

TWO: Start cooking:

1. cook your pasta according to the directions on the box (set your timer and it will be perfect)

2. meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan or in the microwave. Add in half & half; heat. At the last minute (just before adding to pasta), add in lemon juice and lemon peel.

3. meanwhile, when pasta is done, add 1 cup (approx) cold water to boiling pasta water. Drain into a colander. Return the pasta to the pot, add lemon/butter/half&half mixture.

4. Add in Parmesan. stir it all together. Put the lid on while you finish the rest of dinner (off the burner).

THREE: Add some salt, maybe a little pepper. Put a little sprinkle of more Parmesan on top. Something green like parsley would be pretty.

EAT! It is great served with a salad. Sometimes I serve grilled chicken or salmon with it (on the side). It should serve two for a main course, three as a side dish.

OR

I have recently discovered you can make this recipe in one pot!
refer to "One Pot Pasta" and make it like that.