Healthy and creamy pea and ham pasta

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INGREDIENTS

• 280g dried penne pasta 
• 150g (1 cup) frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon 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 shaved ham, torn or shredded

METHOD

1. Cook the pasta in a large saucepan of boiling water following packet directions or until al dente, adding the peas for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Reserve 125ml (1/2 cup) of the cooking liquid.
2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and half the shallot and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until aromatic. Add the wine and simmer for 1-2 minutes or until reduced. Tear half the basil leaves.
3. Combine the cream cheese and reserved pasta water in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and combined. Season well with pepper. Add to the frying pan and immediately remove from the heat.
4. Drain the pasta mixture. Return to the pan. Add the cream cheese mixture, ham and torn basil. Use tongs to toss well to combine. Sprinkle with the remaining shallot and basil.