Treat yourself to a healthy yet creamy pasta dish with this classic pea and ham recipe. This dish is a great way to enjoy a comforting, nutritious meal that’s full of flavour. Plus, it’s easy to make so it’s perfect for a quick dinner.

Ingredients:

280g dried casarecce pasta (or any pasta you have on hand)
150g (1 cup) frozen peas
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 green shallots, trimmed, sliced
60ml (1/4 cup) white wine
1 cup fresh basil leaves
100g (1/2 cup) light cream cheese, chopped
125g smoked ham, torn or shredded

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling water following the package instructions. Add the frozen peas to the pasta for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and half the sliced shallots, and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until aromatic. Add the white wine and simmer for 1-2 minutes or until reduced. Tear half the basil leaves and add to the pan.

3. In a bowl, whisk the light cream cheese and the reserved pasta water until smooth and combined. Season with pepper. Add this mixture to the pan and immediately remove it from the heat.

4. Drain the pasta and peas and add them to the pan. Add the cream cheese mixture, ham and torn basil and toss well to combine. Sprinkle with the remaining shallot and basil. Serve and enjoy!

To make this dish extra special, you can add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top or top with some roasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture.

This creamy, flavourful and healthy pasta dish is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to please. So why not try this pea and ham pasta tonight, and enjoy a comforting and nourishing meal?