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Orecchiette Pasta with Ham, Mushrooms and Peas can be served as either a main dish or a wonderful side for grilled pork chops or chicken. Simple and loaded with flavor!

Orecchiette Pasta with Ham, Mushrooms and Peas

Orecchiette Pasta with Ham, Mushrooms and Peas can be served as either a main dish or a wonderful side for grilled pork chops or chicken. Simple and loaded with flavor!
Course Main, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb orecchiette pasta
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons butter, I use unsalted
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 (8 oz) package sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas, fresh also works
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 5 ounces ham, chopped (try not to use a sweet ham, prosciutto would work best)
  • 3/4 cup half and half
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  3. When heated add onion mushrooms and cook for 3 - 4 minutes, until soft but not browned, stirring often.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Add the water and peas to the pan and cook 3 -5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in the ham and cook 2 minutes. Lower heat to low.
  8. Add half and half, bring to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often.
  9. Drain pasta and add to cream mixture.
  10. Stir in remaining butter and cheese, heat on low until melted and combined.
  11. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Recipe Notes

First published by Quinn Caudill for DadWhats4Dinner.com ©2013