Pasta with Grape Tomatoes, Ham and Peas

This colorful pasta dish is pleasing to the eye and palate.

Ingredients

• Salt and pepper
• 1 pound penne rigate or other pasta of choice
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• 1/4 pound pancetta, guanciale, bacon or prosciutto ends, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken stock
• 2 pints grape tomatoes
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• A few basil leaves, torn
• Grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, for topping

Preparation

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water.

While the pasta is working, in a large skillet, heat the EVOO, three turns of the pan, over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta (or guanciale, bacon or prosciutto ends) and cook until the fat is rendered, 2-3 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Stir in the wine (or chicken stock) to deglaze the pan.

Add the tomatoes; season with salt and pepper. Cover the pan tightly and cook, shaking the pan occasionally, until the tomatoes burst, 10-12 minutes. Mash up the tomatoes with a potato masher or fork. Stir in the peas and basil, then lower the heat to keep warm.

Add the pasta and reserved starchy cooking water to the sauce; toss to combine. Serve in shallow bowls, topped with cheese.