Shrimp & Shells With Pancetta & Peas

Ingredients

1 pound medium-size pasta shells
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
1/3 pound pancetta, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
24 medium-size shrimp, peeled and de-veined
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 boxes frozen peas, defrosted and divided
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 cup chicken stock, plus additional to thin out the sauce if needed

1 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped

Yields: 4 servings

Preparation

Place a large pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil. Add some salt and the pasta shells, and cook to al dente according to the package directions.

While the pasta is cooking, place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add EVOO. Add the pancetta and cook for about 5-6 minutes or until browned. Add the onions and garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper and cook for about 2-3 minutes or they've turned pink and have curled up.

While the shrimp are cooking, place 1 box of the defrosted peas in a food processor along with the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken stock, puree until smooth.

Add the ground pea mixture to the skillet along with remaining chicken stock to thin it out, add the parsley leaves and the reserved box of peas. Add the cooked pasta shells, toss to combine and serve.