Linguine Recipe

Bring 4 liters (about 16 cups) of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 2 tablespoons coarse salt once boiling.

Add 12 oz dried linguine to the boiling water and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve 3 tablespoons pasta cooking water before draining.

Drain the pasta briefly in a colander and return to the pot or place in a large, warm mixing bowl to keep warm.

While the pasta cooks, warm a wide skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter.

When butter melts and oil shimmers (do not let it smoke), add the thinly sliced 4 garlic cloves and minced shallot. Sauté, stirring, until the shallot is translucent and garlic is fragrant and just beginning to color, about 1–2 minutes.

Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes and sauté for 15–30 seconds to bloom the spice.

If using cherry tomatoes, add 1 cup halved or crushed cherry tomatoes now and cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften and release juices.

Raise heat to medium-high and add 1 tablespoon dry white wine (or broth). Scrape the pan bottom with a wooden spoon to deglaze and let the liquid reduce by half, about 1 minute.

Add the reserved 3 tablespoons pasta cooking water to the skillet, then transfer the drained linguine directly into the skillet (or add the sauce to the pot with the pasta).

Toss the pasta vigorously in the sauce for 1–2 minutes so the starches emulsify with the oil and butter, coating the linguine. If the sauce seems dry, add up to 1–2 more tablespoons of reserved pasta water to reach a silky consistency.

Remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest if using. Toss well to combine and taste; adjust salt, pepper, or lemon as needed.

Divide the linguine among warm bowls. Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.