Shiitake Angel Hair Pasta: A Symphony of Umami and Delicate Flavors

Angel hair pasta, with its delicate strands, provides the perfect canvas for showcasing the earthy and savory flavors of shiitake mushrooms. This recipe elevates a simple pasta dish into a culinary experience, highlighting the natural umami of the mushrooms and creating a delightful and satisfying meal.

This dish is not only delicious but also relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic, butter, and a touch of white wine (optional) enhances the shiitake’s flavor, while fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a bright and aromatic note. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.

## Ingredients:

* 1 pound angel hair pasta
* 1 pound fresh shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
* Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice

## Equipment

* Large pot
* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Colander
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Garlic press (optional)
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Shiitake Mushrooms

1. **Clean the Mushrooms:** Gently wipe the shiitake mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking them in water, as they can become waterlogged.
2. **Remove the Stems:** The stems of shiitake mushrooms can be tough and woody. Remove them by twisting or cutting them off. You can save the stems to make vegetable broth if desired.
3. **Slice the Mushrooms:** Slice the shiitake mushrooms into thin, even slices. This will ensure that they cook evenly and release their flavor into the sauce.

### Step 2: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta

1. **Bring Water to a Boil:** Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. The salt helps to season the pasta as it cooks.
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Add the angel hair pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually for 3-5 minutes, or until al dente. Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, so be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.
3. **Reserve Pasta Water:** Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to help thicken the sauce and create a creamy consistency.
4. **Drain the Pasta:** Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

### Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms

1. **Heat the Olive Oil and Butter:** In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
2. **Sauté the Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. **Add the Shiitake Mushrooms:** Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and have released their moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. **Deglaze the Pan (Optional):** If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Let the wine reduce slightly for about 1-2 minutes.

### Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. **Add Soy Sauce and Lemon Juice:** Stir in the soy sauce (or tamari) and lemon juice into the mushroom mixture. The soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, while the lemon juice provides brightness and acidity.
2. **Combine with Pasta Water:** Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. The starchy water will help to thicken the sauce and create a creamy consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water as needed.
3. **Simmer the Sauce:** Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has slightly thickened.

### Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. **Add the Pasta to the Sauce:** Add the drained angel hair pasta to the skillet with the mushroom sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. **Add Parsley:** Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

### Step 6: Season and Serve

1. **Season to Taste:** Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired.
2. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the shiitake angel hair pasta immediately. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and extra parsley, if desired.

## Tips and Variations

* **Other Mushroom Varieties:** While shiitake mushrooms are the star of this dish, you can also use other types of mushrooms, such as cremini or oyster mushrooms, or a combination of different varieties.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté the vegetables along with the mushrooms.
* **Protein:** Add protein to the dish, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to make it a more substantial meal. Add the protein to the skillet along with the mushrooms or after the sauce has been created.
* **Creamy Sauce:** For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet along with the pasta water.
* **Garlic Lovers:** If you love garlic, feel free to add more garlic to the dish. You can also add roasted garlic for a more mellow and complex flavor.
* **Gluten-Free:** To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free angel hair pasta and gluten-free soy sauce (tamari).
* **Vegan:** To make this dish vegan, use vegan butter and omit the Parmesan cheese. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
* **Make Ahead:** The mushroom sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce before adding the pasta.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the dish to enhance the citrusy flavor.
* **Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or chives, to find your favorite flavor combination.
* **Nutty Flavor:** Toast some pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle them over the pasta for added texture and flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve as a main course or a side dish.
* Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
* Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
* Garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
* Add a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 15-20g
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g

*(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)*

## Conclusion

This shiitake angel hair pasta recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish that is sure to impress. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and delicate angel hair pasta creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special meal for a gathering, this recipe is a perfect choice. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of shiitake angel hair pasta!

Enjoy!