Classic White Sauce Pasta with Corn and Onion

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the onion.

3. 3

   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.

4. 4

   Add the sweet corn kernels to the pan and sauté for another 2 minutes. Remove the onion and corn mixture from the pan and set aside.

5. 5

   In the same pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux, without letting it brown.

6. 6

   Gradually pour in the low-fat milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 4-5 minutes).

7. 7

   Season the white sauce with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine.

8. 8

   Add the sautéed onion and corn mixture back into the sauce. Mix well.

9. 9

   Add the cooked penne pasta to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

10. 10

    Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix gently.

11. 11

    Serve hot, garnished with extra chili flakes or parmesan if desired.