Lemon-Thyme Penne, a yummy meal for one

Back in December, Ross was in Nashville visiting Austin for a week (hi, Austin!), and I was busy studying for finals. Having grown weary of grilled cheese sandwiches and drive-thru dinners, I decided to whip up something delicious for myself. A lemon I bought at the grocery store became my inspiration, and this delicious and super-fast meal was born!

I decided to take pictures while I was cooking with my trusty old camera, which has been with me through thick and thin. You can read about its near-death experience, if you'd like. Luckily, it decided to behave for me that day so I've got some lovely pictures for you!

Here's the team:

• 4 ounces dry penne (or whatever other pasta you've got lying around)
• a wedge of lemon
• parmigiano reggiano (i do not authorize any substitutes; buy the real thing!)
• olive oil (it's way in the back!)
• pepper
• kosher salt
• and thyme.

Here's how you do it:

First, bring some water to a boil. When it's rolling, dump in a handful of kosher salt, like so:

I'm serious about the salt. I mean an actual handful, here.

Next, throw in your pasta and cook it according to the package directions. If you're organized and efficient, you can grate a few tablespoons of parmigiano while the pasta is cooking. If you're Leah, you twiddle your thumbs.

When the pasta is finished, drain it and put it into a single-serving size bowl.


Next, add yourself some pepper...

And give the lemon wedge a good squeeze over the bowl...

And add a little drizzle of olive oil (maybe a teaspoon)...

And a tiny pinch of thyme.

Then, grate a few tablespoons of parmigiano right on top:

Mix it all up and scarf it down! And hopefully, you can enjoy your meal for one in a more relaxing and inviting setting than this one:



--Leah