Procedure

1. Preheat the oven on broil. Bring a pot of water to a boil and season with salt. Cook the pasta 1 minute short of the package directions.
2. Heat a large heavy bottomed pot over high heat. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and add cauliflower, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the cauliflower begins to caramelize.
3. Add the butter to the pot. Whisk in flour to form a paste. Season with salt and cook for 2 to 3 minutes just until the paste starts to take on a warm golden color. Whisk in the milk and season with salt, pepper, nutmeg and chili flakes. Stir in the gruyere and half of the Parmigiano-Reggiano to melt. Add in the ham. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
4. Mix the bread crumbs, remaining cheese and chopped parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta and place under the broiler. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the bread crumbs are golden brown.

Procedure

1. In a  saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until soft and light golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Add the thyme and carrot, and cook 5 minutes more, until the carrot is quite soft.
4. Add the tomatoes and juice and bring to a boil, stirring often.
5. Lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes until thick.
6. Season with salt and serve. This sauce holds 1 week in the refrigerator or up to 6 months in the freezer.

When ready to use, the cooked pasta should be added to a saucepan with the appropriate amount of sauce. Garnish with basil leaves and cheese, if using.

1. Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, garlic and some salt and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly whisk in the oil until emulsified. Let sit at room temperature while you prepare the salad to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Rinse the quinoa in a strainer until the water runs clear. Combine the quinoa, 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small saucepan, bring to a boil and cook until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Transfer the quinoa to a bowl, fluff with a fork and let sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Add the tomatoes, olives, green onions, cherry peppers, red onions, cucumbers and dressing, and toss to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours before serving. The longer it sits the better the flavor. Just before serving, transfer to a platter and sprinkle feta on top.