English Pea Pesto Pasta

1 pound spaghetti or linguine

8 ounces diced ham

2 teaspoons olive oil or butter

1 cup frozen petite green peas, thawed or lightly cooked

3/4 cup packed torn basil leaves

1/4 cup fresh shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

2 cloves garlic, minced

5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup walnuts, optional

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation:

Cook spaghetti or linguine following package directions. Drain and rinse with hot water.

Meanwhile, in a small skillet, brown the ham in a few teaspoons of olive oil or butter.

Meanwhile, for pesto, combine in a food processor the peas, basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and walnuts, if using. Run the food processor, adding olive oil a little at a time. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.

Toss the ham and pesto with the hot pasta. Serve with more Parmesan cheese.

This is very good and easy to make!

Recipe from: http://southernfood.about.com/od/peas/r/r90430c.htm