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[first night feast]
Mexican Chili Mac ‘n’ Queso 
 Serves 6
 1 lb. penne or elbow macaroni 
 1 small can chopped green chilies
 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
 4-5 green scallions, chopped
 1 package spicy (not sweet) chorizo, either ground or in the casings. If in casings, remove casings and finely dice.
 1 cup grated parmesan
 1 cup grated cheddar
 Cook pasta until al dente and drain well. Sauté garlic, chorizo, chilies, and scallions in a little olive oil until softened. Combine chorizo mixture with pasta, top with both cheeses and mix well. 
*Backpackers’ Tips: At home, prep the chorizo mixture and combine it in a zip-top bag, then freeze. It will stay cold in your pack for a day or two). Cheese will stay freshest if left in chunks, then grated or finely diced in camp.