Pasta Shells with Peas and Ham

Exhausted here today - up at 4:30, watched Royal wedding in hotel room  with colleagues . . . it was great fun dissecting the clothing choices, ceremony, behaviour, and hair. Champagne and OJ as the royal couple emerged from Westminister. Then attended the conference all day followed by a long drive home.

Yes, I am exhausted.

When it came to dinner I wanted something fast and tasty.

This recipe for pasta shells with peas and ham in a creamy sauce with fresh dill from the fine folk at Food and Wine magazine seemed ro fit the bill. It came together quickly - you can have this on the table in less than 30 minutes. I was impressed with the way the smoky ham combined with the creamy sauce. Paul LOVED the fresh dill. All in all this was a delicious treat that I know we'll make again.

Pasta Shells with Peas and Ham

1 pound small pasta shells or elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
One 10-ounce package frozen peas
1/4 pound thinly sliced country ham or prosciutto, coarsely chopped
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken stock or low-sodium broth
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup chopped dill
and freshly ground pepper

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain the shells, return them to the pot and toss with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil to prevent sticking.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the garlic and cook over moderate heat until golden, about 4 minutes. Add the peas and ham and cook until the peas are hot and the ham is lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the cream and stock and simmer over moderate heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Stir the cream sauce into the shells. Add the Parmesan and dill and season with salt and pepper. Serve in bowls.

Comments

[menehune]

Oh, my stomach is speaking to me viewing your blog entry. Peas and pasta - comfort food for me..I know, it's strange. I'll give this a try. Thanks for sharing!

[JDeQ]

Yup - comfort food indeed!