Country Ham Carbonara

Prep / Total : 40 minutes             Makes 4 servings

Hearty, not heavy, is key in this savory Italian meal of Country Ham Carbonara. Serve this one-dish pasta immediately for the best flavor.

1                  (9-oz.) package refrigerated fettuccine
3/4               cup chopped country ham
2                  tablespoons olive oil
2                  shallots, thinly sliced
2                  garlic cloves, pressed
2                  pasteurized egg yolks
1/2               cup (2 oz.) freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
3                  tablespoons chopped fresh chives
3                  tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/2               teaspoon freshly cracked pepper

1.       Cook pasta according to package directions; drain, reserving 1-1/2 cups hot pasta water.
2.       Cook ham in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 4 to 5 minutes or until crisp. Remove ham, reserving drippings in skillet. Drain on paper towels.
3.        Sauté shallots in hot drippings 3 to 4 minutes or until tender. Stir in garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add reserved pasta water to shallots and garlic; bring to boil. Stir in hot cooked pasta, and remove from heat. Stir in egg yolks, 1 at a time.
4.       Reduce heat to medium, and cook, stirring constantly, 2 to 3 minutes or until creamy. Remove from heat; add cooked ham, Parmesan cheese, and remaining ingredients. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.