Recipe: Pasta Chowder (with cheddar cheese and clams)

PASTA CHOWDER

2 cups Small Shells, Ditalini or Stars, uncooked
3 tbsp. margarine
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
4 cups milk
2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 cans (6 1/2 oz. each) minced clams, undrained
Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain; set aside.

In large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt margarine. Add onion and garlic. Cook until tender.

Stir in remaining ingredients, except pasta. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until soup is hot and cheese melts. Do not boil.

Stir in pasta. Heat through.

Servings: 6
Source: National Pasta Association