Dive into a tantalizing plate of linguine intertwined with earthy morel mushrooms and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. This dish marries the delicate flavors of morels with the robust punch of garlic and the refreshing zest of lemon, making it a perfect harmony of tastes and textures.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of uncooked linguine pasta
- Morel mushrooms, rinsed and halved or quartered lengthwise
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced (or more– you can’t have too much!)
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil + 1 tablespoon of butter
- 8 tablespoons of Kerrygold salted Irish butter (or regular)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil for tossing
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Linguine with Morel Mushrooms and Parmesan
1. Preparing the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This typically takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve a cup of the cooking liquid. This starchy water will be used later to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook until it becomes translucent, taking care not to let it brown. The shallot will add a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
3. Cooking the Morel Mushrooms
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cleaned and prepared morel mushrooms along with a pinch of salt. Sauté the mushrooms until they soften and release most of their moisture. For the best results, cook the mushrooms in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can prevent proper browning. Once the mushrooms are tender and caramelized, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to let the garlic brown, as it can develop a bitter taste.
4. Creating the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 8 tablespoons of Kerrygold salted Irish butter to the pan. Allow the butter to melt completely, enveloping the mushrooms in its creamy richness. Once melted, add the cooked linguine to the pan, tossing to combine the ingredients thoroughly. The pasta will absorb the buttery mushroom mixture, creating a luxurious coating.
5. Adding the Final Touches
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, adjusting the amount to your taste preference. The cheese will melt into the pasta, adding a savory, creamy texture. Next, add the freshly chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley and the grated zest of one lemon. The parsley will contribute a fresh, herbaceous note, while the lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy lift that balances the richness of the dish.
6. Perfecting the Consistency
To achieve the ideal sauce consistency, ladle in a bit of the reserved pasta water. This starchy liquid will help to bind the sauce, ensuring that each strand of linguine is coated perfectly. Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and sheen. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Toss the pasta gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serving the Dish
Once the pasta is heated through and the sauce has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to a serving dish. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve the linguine hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Linguine with Morel Mushrooms and Parmesan
- Selecting Morel Mushrooms: When foraging or purchasing morel mushrooms, look for specimens that are firm, dry, and free from blemishes. Fresh morels have a distinctive, earthy aroma.
- Cleaning Morel Mushrooms: Rinse morel mushrooms under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Avoid soaking them in water, as they can become waterlogged.
- Butter Choice: Using high-quality butter, such as Kerrygold salted Irish butter, enhances the flavor of the dish. If using unsalted butter, adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Pasta Cooking Liquid: Always reserve some pasta cooking liquid before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
Enjoying Your Culinary Masterpiece
This recipe for Linguine with Morel Mushrooms and Parmesan is a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of earthy morels, creamy butter, savory Parmesan, and bright lemon zest, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
This delightful dish is perfect for mushroom lovers and those seeking a comforting, yet elegant meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy textures in every bite!