Hasta la pasta, baby!

Are you tired, run-down, listless?  Do you poop out at parties?  Well this is the time of year when we all get a little exhausted here and there from the hustle and the bustle and need something quick for supper.  This is a recipe a friend gave me years ago for Pasta con Broccoli and it's quick, easy, and perfect for those nights when you want something homemade that won't take you forever - or to take to a pot luck.  It's so tasty, too! ha ha

Pasta con Broccoli

1 packge of large shell noodles
1/2 stick of butter
1 cup of Parmesan cheese
1 pint of half & half
1 15-oz. can tomato sauce
2 cloves garlic (I use 3 if they're small, or just a couple tsp. of the diced garlic in a jar)
1 package frozen chopped broccoli (use fresh if you like - also or instead!)
1/2-3/4 cup mushrooms - optional

Sheesh, think we buy store brand very often?

Melt the butter in a saucepan and add the garlic.  Cook for a minute or two and add the rest (except the broccoli and mushrooms) - could this GET any easier??  I thought not.

You can simmer this for about 20 minutes or so, or just until heated through - whatever you have time for.  Add your broccoli and mushrooms and cook a bit longer.  Meanwhile boil your pasta, drain, etc.  It's not a white sauce, but it's not a red sauce either.  I'd say it's kind of a salmon-ish color.

                                   

Mix together and ENJOY!!  I just had to add this last picture to show you what my sister-in-law got me for my birthday...a set of utensils with my name on the handle from That's My Pan!  CA-UTE!  She also made me some dresses for my girl dog, but before you think I'm psycho I'm just going to be on my merry way.  We'll save that for another day.  Ciao!