Pasta with Ham, Peas, and Cream

1. 1

   Bring both a large and a small pot of water to a boil; salt them both.

2. 2

   In the small pot, cook the peas until tender, 3 or 4 minutes.

3. 3

   Drain and set aside.

4. 4

   Put the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat; when it melts, add the ham and cook for about a minute.

5. 5

   Stir in the peas, the cream, a pinch of salt, and a fair amount of black pepper.

6. 6

   Turn the heat to low; keep warm, stirring occasionally, while you cook the pasta.

7. 7

   Cook the pasta until tender but not mushy; drain, reserving about a cup of the cooking liquid.

8. 8

   Toss the pasta with the cream mixture; if it seems too thick, add a little of the reserved cooking water.

9. 9

   Stir in the Parmesan, taste and adjust the seasoning, and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.