Creamy pea & ham orzo

Method

1. 1

   Boil the orzo in salted water, drain (save some pasta water for later) and set aside

2. 2

   Fry the ham in a little spray oil until slightly browned then remove and set aside for later

3. 3

   In the same pan, add the onion and fry for a few minutes then add the mushrooms and cook until softened

4. 4

   Add the garlic and the chilli (if using) and mix together

5. 5

   Next, add the peas, then add the chicken stock and simmer for a couple of minutes

6. 6

   Add the cooked orzo and mix until all combined then add in the double cream, the Parmesan and a splash of reserved pasta water and mix well

7. 7

   Add the cooked ham back in along with a pinch of black pepper and heat through whilst stirring

8. 8

   Stir in the parsley, serve into two bowls and enjoy!