For the Love of Pasta

Hurried, hassled, hungry and not in the mood to cook unless it is simple and quick? No particular worry about calories, fat or salt content?

Packaged shells and cheese (the kind where the cheese is squeezed out of the package) with added vegetables and your choice of a fish or meat protein will satisfy your need for a speedy meal. The recipe below will make 3 portions.

1 package shells and cheese
1 large fresh firm ripe tomato cored and diced
2 tablespoons small dice sweet onion
4 oz fresh sliced mushrooms (canned will work, fresh is better)
2 to 3 stalks celery – about ½ cup (the tender pale ones), sliced
6 to 8 oz diced ham – or cooked chicken
OR - one 6 oz can premium solid white tuna in water, drained and broken up
6 oz finely shredded cheese that melts (cheddar or favorite that harmonizes with other cheese)
Black pepper to taste, freshly ground

Assemble ingredients. Prepare vegetables and meat or fish. Add more or less of each as you like. Gently toss together in a separate bowl.

Next, prepare pasta according to box directions (taste test to be sure it is the way you like it). Drain and put in a casserole dish with lid that can go in the microwave. Keep pasta hot, do not rinse in cold water. Immediately add cheese from package and the extra shredded cheese to top of pasta. Microwave covered on lower power until both pasta and cheese are hot and can be easily combined. Carefully stir in the vegetables and ham, chicken or tuna. Serve immediately.

Serve in warmed bowls and pass the pepper grinder.