Tired Day Linguini with Mushrooms

We all have our quick fixes for busy days when we're just too tired to cook. Unfortunately, our favorite takeout, the Chicken Bus (grilled chicken) has disappeared so I'm stuck whipping something up fast.

This particular quick fix can be as simple as you like. The basic ingredients are linguini, butter, garlic powder, and salt. You can see from the photo above that I sometimes now use it as the basis for a more rounded meal. Here it's being served with roasted shrimp and peas.

You'll note that I left the mushrooms and onion (gasp) out of the description! Shhh. It's definitely better with mushrooms and onion, but if you don't have any, the butter, salt, and powdered garlic will do the trick for a quick meal. Conversely, you can add your favorites. Peas, red pepper, leftover meat—almost anything can be mixed in.

Quick Linguini with Mushrooms
serves two

1/2 package linguini

3-4 tablespoons butter
1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon powdered garlic depending on taste
1/2 small onion, chopped or sliced (about 1/4 cup)
8 ounces of white or cremini mushrooms, sliced
salt
1/4 cup linguini water
shredded or grated Parmesan (optional)

Cook linguini according to directions. While it cooks, place butter in a skillet on medium-low heat and let it melt. Sprinkle the powdered garlic on it as it melts. Add the onion to the butter and let it cook while you slice the mushrooms. Add the mushrooms and toss to combine. Cook until they are soft. Salt to taste.

When the linguini is done, add 1/4 cup of the water from the linguini to the mushrooms to make a sauce. It will sizzle up. Drain the linguini and add enough linguini for two to the skillet with the mushrooms. Toss to coat the linguini. Sprinkle with Parmesan if you like.