Pasta with Roasted Broccoli and Walnuts

Okay, so I used this one from the Real Simple subscription Andrew got me. It sounds fancy and looks fancy, and is delish, but VERY easy! And just a warning--it seems bland at first sight--but the walnuts and olive oil give it a rich taste. Anyway, if I can do it, you can! Enjoy :)

12 oz short pasta
1 bunch broccoli cut into small florets ( I used frozen, pre-cut...)
1/2 c. walnuts roughly chopped
1/4 c. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped (or the canned kind)
Salt & pepper
2 Tbsp. butter
1/4 c. grated Parmesan

Heat oven to 400 F. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve 3/4 c. of the pasta water, drain the pasta, and return to pot.

Meanwhile, on a rimmed baking sheet, toss the broccoli, walnuts, oil, garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Roast, tossing once halfway, for 18-20 min, or until broccoli is tender.

Toss the pasta with the broccoli mixture, butter, and 1/2 c. of the reserved pasta water (more if needed). Sprinkle with parmesan before serving. Enjoy!

**PS--I added grilled chicken to it to give it a little more substance to be a "meal", and it was great.

Cheesy Tortellini Soup

This recipe takes a little bit of work and makes A TON of soup. But it is oh so delicious!!!

4 Tb margarine
2 shredded carrots
6 cups water
2 cups whipping cream
4 cups chicken, diced
1 onion diced
3 stalks celery, diced
4 cups milk
1 cup cheeze whiz
12 oz frozen cheese tortellini

Melt margarine in pot. Add onion, carrots and celery. Sautee until tender. Add water and boil. Add noodles and cook 12-15 minutes Add rest of ingredients, stirring constantly on low heat until cheese melts. Simmer on low, add chicken boillon cube and cornstarch for a better broth!!

Yield a ton of soup:)