Happy Friday! Hope you’re looking forward to a great weekend. Any cooking projects on the agenda? I’m working at the hospital, so am planning a lot more (defrosted) soup-and-salad-type meals. That said, I’ve been craving pasta lately. It’s definitely one of those cool-weather comfort foods. Did you know it’s National Pasta Month?

I know pasta gets a bad reputation because we tend to think of more indulgent incarnations, but when you choose a whole grain variety and pair it with lots of veggies and some protein, it can be part of a healthy, balanced diet.

Here are a few of my favorite pasta-centric meals:

• Spaghetti with Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Bacon, and Egg
• Whole Wheat Pasta with Sardines, Kale, and Lemon
• Sausage and Kale Soup with orecchiette
• Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese 
• Langostino Mac & Cheese
• Turkey Meatballs—great with  your favorite pasta
• Duck Meatballs
• Mom’s Marinara 

To keep the pasta party going, here’s a cute but informative infographic:

What’s your favorite pasta?