Creamy Savory Cabbage Pasta

Step 1: Optional Ham, Bacon, or Chicken ... This is a great way to make this a main dish - vs. a side dish. I have made this with all 3; and, I think the smoked ham is my favorite; but, all are equally as good. You can also use leftover ham or rotisserie chicken too. I often get a couple of thick slices of smoked ham from the grocers deli; and, dice them up. As for bacon, I prefer to get slab bacon from a butcher, so, I can cut them into lardons (or large diced pieces). Then, cook until brown and crispy.

Step 2: Cabbage Base ... Add the butter to a large saute pan, and bring to medium high heat. Add the cabbage, onion, and garlic to the saute pan; and stir to combine. then, add a bit of salt and pepper, broth; cover, and simmer about 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

Step 3: Pasta ... As you start the cabbage base, prepare your pasta. Cook the pasta according to package directions, in plenty of salted water. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water; and, return to the pot to keep warm. Keep the pasta water in a measuring cup on the side.

Step 4: Sauce ... Reduce the heat to medium; and, add the cream and mustard to the cabbage. Mix every thing together, and cook 5 minutes on medium heat, uncovered. Season once again with salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 5: If you decide to add ham, bacon, or chicken to this dish; add them at this point. Cook just a couple of minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Finish ... Add the cabbage sauce to the pasta, and a bit of the pasta water (only if necessary); and, toss to combine.

Step 7: Serve and ENJOY! ... Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chives, and dig in. It's a simple but delicious dish.