Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Allow half-and-half or cream and margarine or butter to come to room temperature (about 30-40 minutes).

In a large saucepan or pasta pot, bring 3 quarts water to boiling. Add pasta. Reduce heat slightly. Boil, uncovered for 8-10 minutes for dried pasta or 1 1/2-2 minutes for fresh pasta, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. (Or cook according to package directions). Immediately drain pasta.

Return pasta to the warm pan. Add Parmesan cheese, half-and- half/cream, butter/margarine, salt, and garlic. Toss gently until pasta is well coated. Transfer to a warm serving dish.

If desired, sprinkle with basil or parsley and pepper. Serve immediately.