ORECCHIETTE PASTA WITH PEAS, HAM, AND CREAM

Orecchiette Pasta with Peas, Ham, and Cream image

Provided by Michael Lomonaco

Yield Makes 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 pound orecchiette pasta
3 tablespoons butter
1 small white onion, diced, (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup frozen or shelled fresh peas
2 tablespoon water
4 ounces cooked ham, cut into thin strips
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
N/A pepper

Steps:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, warm 1 tablespoon of the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. When the butter starts to bubble, add onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until translucent, stirring often.
3. Add the peas and water to the pan and cook 3 minutes, stirring. Stir in the ham and cook 2 minutes. Add the cream; bring to a low simmer and cook 5 minutes.
4. Drain pasta; place in large serving bowl. Stir remaining 2 tablespoons butter into the cream mixture over low heat until melted. Stir in the cheese. Pour sauce over pasta and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.