PERFECT PASTAS

Shavuot is one of my favorite holidays because I get the chance to experiment with new dishes to serve. Amp up your dairy game this year with these super-easy yet sophisticated pasta recipes that’ll wow your guests – even the kids!

MAC AND CHEESE WITH BREADCRUMB TOPPING

Nothing in the world is more comforting than mac and cheese! This version has a gourmet flare, which is perfect for Shavuot. Tip: Feel free to combine ANY cheese you have on hand into this recipe. 

1lb. elbow pasta

3/4 cup all purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 tsp. salt

16 oz. mozzarella cheese 

8oz. cheddar cheese

For the topping:

1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

1/2 stick butter

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, making sure to season the water liberally with salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, melt the stick of butter in a separate pot on medium high heat. Once melted, add in the flour and stir until all of the flour is mixed in.
3. Pour in the milk and whisk until a creamy sauce has formed. Season with salt.
4. Once the white sauce is bubbling, mix in the cheeses and fold in the drained pasta.
5. In a pan, melt the butter and stir in the breadcrumbs. Once the butter has been absorbed, shut off the flame.
6. Pour the pasta into an oven proof dish, top with the toasted breadcrumbs, and bake on 375 for 25 minutes uncovered.

EASY PENNE ALLA VODKA

Recreating this Italian classic at home has never been so easy! With a few simple steps and common household ingredients, dinner can be ready in less than 20 minutes. The greatest part is that it can be made ahead of time and even tastes better the next day.

1lb. penne pasta

2 cups store bought marinara sauce

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup tomato paste 

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. dry oregano

1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup parmesan cheese for topping

INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, making sure to season the water liberally with salt. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. 
2. In a large pan, combine the rest of the ingredients except the mozzarella cheese and simmer the sauce on medium heat for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
3. Add in the mozzarella cheese and the drained pasta. Mix on medium heat until the sauce clings to the pasta. Top with parmesan cheese and serve hot.