WHITE SAUCE PASTA

✅ Ingredients:

🍝 For the pasta:

• 1½ cups penne (or any pasta)

• Water for boiling

• Salt – to taste

• 1 tsp oil (optional)

🥛 For the white sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida)

• 2 cups milk (warm)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tsp mixed herbs or oregano

• ¼ cup grated cheese (mozzarella or processed)

🥦 Optional add-ins:

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, corn, carrots, mushrooms)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing

• 2–3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta:

• In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and pasta.

• Cook until al dente (firm but cooked).

• Drain and set aside. Toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Sauté Veggies (Optional):

• Heat 1 tbsp butter/oil in a pan.

• Add garlic and sauté till fragrant.

• Add chopped vegetables and sauté till tender but still crisp. Set aside.

3. Make the White Sauce:

• In a separate pan, melt 2 tbsp butter.

• Add 2 tbsp flour and whisk continuously on low heat for 1–2 minutes (don’t let it brown).

• Slowly add warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.

• Cook and stir until the sauce thickens (3–5 minutes).

• Add salt, pepper, chili flakes, herbs, and grated cheese. Mix until smooth.

4. Combine Everything:

• Add boiled pasta and sautéed veggies to the white sauce.

• Toss well to coat everything evenly. Add a splash of milk if it gets too thick.

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🍽️ Serve hot with:

• Extra cheese on top

• Garlic bread

• Fresh parsley (optional)

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💡 Tips:

• Always use warm milk to avoid lumps in the sauce.

• Use cheddar, mozzarella, or processed cheese for creaminess.

• Add cooked chicken, mushrooms, or paneer for a protein boost.