Creamy Pasta with Ham and Peas

The best part about making a ham for a special occasion is the leftovers. There are so many delcious ways to use it up. This might be my favorite way. I love the creamy pasta with the salty ha and the fresh peas. We know that ham and peas are magical together in split pea soup so why not try them together whole. If you don't have leftover ham (and why would you) you can buy a piece of deli ham and ask them to cut it 1/4 inch thick for you. Not quite the same, but it will work for sure. I also used penne pasta because I have it, but I think it would be even cuter with bowties. This dish comes together quickly and would probably be a crowd pleaser for children and adults alike. Hope you enjoy! Creamy Pasta with Ham and Peas
Ingredients:
1 lb. short pasta
2 Tbs. butter
2 Tbs. flour
1 clove garlic
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 1/2 cups skim milk
1/2 bag frozen peas
1 cup cubed ham
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
salt and pepper
1. Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the flour, whisk together, and let cook for 2-3 minutes. 2. Whisk in the wine and then whisk in the milk slowly to avoid lumps. If you have lumps, don't worry. They will cook out eventually. Add finley chopped garlic, 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Allow to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens. 3. Add the frozen peas and the ham. Neither need to be cooked, just warmed through. Cook your pasta according to the instructions on your box for al dente. 4. Add the pasta to the sauce and stir to thoroughly combine. Allow to cook all together for 1-2 minutes so that the pasta absorbs the great flavors. Dish up and enjoy. It also heats up well in the microwave the next day, making this an ideal lunch food for the office.