FETA PASTA WITH BROCCOLI

RECIPES THAT WOULD MAKE YOUR MOTHER PROUD OF YOU BECAUSE YOU’RE GOING THE EXTRA MILE AND STARTING FROM SCRATCH

Sometimes you just need to get back to the basics and feel like you're doing the 'real thing' by cooking something that doesn't use a mix or a can or a box or anything except what you have on hand and can put together to create something amazing and wonderful all by yourself. It's both humbling and exhilarating and, the best thing about it is that YOU CAN DO IT! So here is one of those recipes that will qualify you for the 'Starting From Scratch' Hall of Fame or at least, make you feel like you're ready to be added to the list. In addition, it's easy and fun, so stand back and watch yourself make something that not only would make your mother proud of you but make you proud of yourself, as well. Here's the recipe:

2 C. uncooked pasta (I used Penne pasta for this recipe, but you could use about anything except Manicotti noodles)

1 tsp. salt

2 Qt. water (for cooking the pasta)

2 C. fresh or frozen broccoli florettes

1 C. cream (not half and half)

1 C. Feta cheese

1/2 C. Parmesan cheese

1-2 tsp. garlic powder (according to your taste)

1 tsp. salt

1. Cook the pasta noodles until they are soft or al dente, whichever you prefer. Drain the pasta well and set aside.

2. Steam the broccoli but not too much. It should still be bright green but not hard. Drain and set aside.

3. Combine the cream

and cheeses, the garlic powder and salt reserving some of the Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top.

4. Combine the cream and cheeses, reserving some of the Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top.

5. Add the noodles to the sauce and then carefully stir in the broccoli so it doesn't fall apart.

6. Serve immediately while it is piping hot. That's it. What could be easier than that? Enjoy!

Serves 2-3.