Greek-Style Mac and Cheese

 Greek-Syle Mac and Cheese

Traditional Greek ingredients transform the classic American dish.

Cheeses used are Gouda and feta.

Add some spinach and tomatoes, and top with croutons, olives and parsley.

So rich and tasty!

Greek-Style Mac and Cheese

2 cups dry spiral noodles, cooked

2 Tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic

8 ounces chopped fresh baby spinach

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons flour

2 1/2 cups milk

6-8 ounces coarsely grated Gouda Cheese

1 1/4 cups crumbled feta cheese, divided

1/2 teaspoon salt

large handful cherry tomatoes, quartered

1 1/2  cups Italian-style croutons

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 cup chopped pitted olives

Preheat the oven to 350.  Butter a 13X9 inch baking dish or 2 1/2 -quart casserole.  Heat the olive oil in a large skillet.  Add the garlic and saute gently for several seconds, thens stir in the spinach and 2 tablespoons of water.  Cover and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.  Remove the pan from the heat.  Do not pour off excess liquid.  Melt the butter in a large nonstick saucepan.  Stir in the flour and cook over medium-low heat for 1 minute, stirring constantly.  Whisk in the milk and cook whisking often, until it thickens.  Add the Gouda cheese, whisking until it melts.  Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the feta cheese and the salt.  Pour the sauce over the noodles.  Stir in the cooked spinach and tomatoes.  Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.  Partially crush the croutons in a plastic bag and sprinkle over the dish.  Bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbly.  Serve hot, garnished with the remaining 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and chopped olives.                                                                     Makes 6 servings