Makes 8 servings.
Ingredients:
- 1-1/2 lbs. angel hair pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups warm milk
- Salt and cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 4 medium tomatoes, chopped and seeded
- 2 leeks, diced
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 lbs. scallops
Instructions:
Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain. In a small saucepan, melt half of the butter and stir in flour to form a paste. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously to form a smooth sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat. Stir in Cheddar cheese until melted. In a large skillet melt remaining butter over medium-high heat. Sauté vegetables until just cooked. Add scallops; cook for 3 to 5 minutes until scallops are firm and lightly browned.
To serve: Spoon pasta onto plates, top with scallop mixture, cheese sauce and cracked pepper.
*Ideal with aged Cheddar. Use 2-year or 3-year cheddar for added sharpness. Increase Cheddar for a richer sauce.