Cheesy Mexican Penne

Place a large pot of water to boil over high heat. Once boiling, salt the water liberally and add pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions and drain and rinse the pasta and set aside in a serving bowl.

While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Then whisk in flour to form a paste. Slowly add half and half, whisking after each addition until sauce is creamy and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper and add the cheese. Stir mixture until the cheese is completely melted.

Reduce heat and add veggies, mustard and salsa. Allow to cook for five minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. Taste and season accordingly with salt and pepper.

Pour sauce over waiting pasta and stir to combine. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.