Houmus mac and cheese

Another mac and cheese-type dish. We use a box of the small shell pasta and this sauce (measurements are approximate since we just make it to taste in true Neinerschts fashion):

1/4 cup houmus
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon flour
1/4 cup cold water
1/3 cup sharp cheddar cheese
1/3 cup parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Put cold water and flour in a sealed jar and shake until smooth. Warm milk on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add 1/4 cup houmus. Continue to stir. when mixture is close to boiling, add water and flour combination; simmer for one minute. Stir in cheese and lemon juice and pour over pasta.

We usually add frozen baby peas too - at the very end so they don't get overcooked. any type of vegetable would work. I also like to add about 1/4 cup of pureed carrots (I'm lazy and buy the baby food version) - the sweetness of the carrots goes nicely with the houmus.

Pasta, Cheese, and Vegetables

I picked this easy recipe up from James while I was out in Maryland. It’s like Macaroni and Cheese, except quicker than the homemade version, cheaper than the boxed version, and healthier than either.

Cook pasta

Cook mixed vegetables

I use about equal amounts of vegetables and pasta, and as my father’s daughter I cook them all at once in the same pot (I add the vegetables a few minutes after the pasta so they don’t overcook) but James cooks the veggies in the microwave while boiling pasta on the stove.

While these are cooking, grate some sharp cheddar cheese.

Strain pasta and vegetables and mix them together with the cheese while they are still hot. Add salt and seasoning to taste—I like Mrs. Dash original seasoning, but James had some delicious ones as well.

Add ins:

A little buttermilk or sour cream will make it creamier, a dash of maple syrup is delicious (don’t ask me how I know), and while I’m not eager to try it myself I’m sure some chopped up ham or other meat would be just fine in this as well.

I am eating this meal as I type and it is delicious.