This dish brings about an uncomplicated happiness in my kids, they love it. For me, it’s a reminder of simpler times.
I used to place this same pasta dish on their high chair tray, watching their chubby little fingers stuff the peas, ham and bowties into their mouths. It was sheer pleasure for them as they picked out the peas and ham first, leaving the noodles for last.
I spent a lot of time picking run away peas off the floor, which seemed like such a burden then. What I wouldn’t do now to have them back in their high chairs, spilling their milk and throwing peas on the floor.
When they were little, I would toss the noodles with a little butter. Now I make it a little fancier (but not much) to accommodate more grown up taste buds. And just like old times, I found two peas on the floor after they had finished eating. Bliss.
Baby Bowties with Peas & Ham
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Salt
1/2 pound baby bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 cup frozen peas
3/4 cup cooked ham, cut into small cubes
In a jar with a lid, combine lemon juice, pepper, olive oil, half the cheese and salt to taste. Cover and shake well; set aside.
Bring 4 quarts water to a boil. Add 1 Tablespoon salt to the water. Add pasta and set timer for 2 minutes less than package directions.
When timer sounds, add peas and ham to boiling pasta, setting timer for two more minutes.
Strain all together; drain well and place in a bowl.
Add lemon juice and oil dressing. Mix well and top with remaining Parmesan cheese.
One Year Ago: Am I Using the Right Type of Baking Flour?
Two Years Ago: Not Acceptable ~ Dishwasher Disaster