Linguine with Clam Sauce

Another of my childhood classics!  I realize I'm pregnant but I seriously get intense cravings for this one.  I have contemplated just cutting to the chase and drinking the sauce with a straw.  Is that too much?  Probably...but this sauce really is just that good!

Linguine with Clam Sauce
Recipe from my mom

1/2 lb whole wheat linguine
2 tbsp butter
1/8 cup chopped onion
2 tbsp flour
1/2 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp basil
1/2 tsp thyme
1 cup milk
1 can chopped clams, undrained
1/4 tsp salt
1-2 grinds freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of cayenne pepper*

1.  Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions.  Drain and set aside.

2.  While pasta cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and add onions.  Saute until translucent.  Whisk in the flour, basil, oregano, and thyme and let that cook a couple minutes.

3.  Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth.  Add the clams and remaining seasonings.  Let sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes.  Ladle over hot pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

*Cayenne is HOT STUFF.  This sauce is meant to be mellow, soothing, comforting, so go easy with the cayenne.  If you'd like it spicier, it's a lot easier to add more than to take away.

My mom would make this a lot when we were little.  Not only is it super yummy in it's creamy comfort, but it also comes together in under 20 minutes.  Bonus!!