Image by Karen Sewell

Linguine

Ah, Linguine, the staple of many Italian-American households across the country. This classic pasta dish brings with it a rich history of family feasts and good memories.

Linguine


Linguine is a long, flat noodle that is roughly the same thickness as spaghetti, but with a narrower width. It is usually made from durum wheat flour and can be found dried or fresh, depending on the region. The name linguine (meaning "little tongues" in Italian) refers to its shape - resembling the tongues of those who enjoy it.

The traditional linguine recipe includes a tomato-based sauce that is typically made with olive oil, garlic, onion, and herbs such as basil and oregano. The sauce is then simmered until it is thick and flavorful, adding a depth of flavor that elevates the simple pasta dish.

One of the best ways to prepare linguine is to pair it with a hearty tomato sauce and top it off with grated cheese and fresh herbs. The combination of flavors, textures, and aromas make for a unique and delicious dining experience.

Linguine is a versatile dish - It can be enjoyed with a variety of sauces, ranging from creamy Alfredo to spicy arrabbiata. It is also an excellent vehicle for other ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, and even fruits. A popular way to serve linguine is with shrimp and zucchini, where the sweet and savory pair perfectly.

In addition to its incredible flavor, linguine is also incredibly healthy. It is high in fiber, is low in calories, and is a good source of iron, vitamin B6, and magnesium. Linguine's nutritional benefits make it an ideal dish for those looking to cut down on fat and calories, while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

All in all, linguine is an easy, delicious, and nutritious meal that can grace the tables of any home. Its versatility means that it can be enjoyed in different forms, from a simple plate of pasta to an elaborate dish with a variety of ingredients. Next time you're looking for an Italian-inspired meal, give linguine a try - your taste buds won't be sorry!

The origin of Linguine

Linguine is one of the oldest and most iconic pasta dishes in Italy, it has a long and fascinating history that dates back many centuries. The first record of the word "linguine" is found in an old Italian cookbook from 1790.

While its exact origins are debatable, one prevailing theory is that the dish derives its name from the Italian verb "linguire," which means to lick. This could be due to the fact that the long strands of pasta can easily be licked up with a fork or spoon like a cat lapping up cream.

It's likely that Linguine was created during the Middle Ages, when pasta was cut into smaller shapes, rather than rolled out flat. This allowed cooks to create pasta of all shapes and sizes, making possible the creation of Linguine. It's believed that the shape was designed to soak up sauces better as well as hold more flavor.

There are many regional variations on the classic dish with minor changes in ingredients and garnishes. One of the most popular variations is pesto Linguine, a dish made up of a garlic and basil pesto sauce served with long pasta. Other regional variations include adding shrimps, mussels, clams, and other seafood.

No matter what version you enjoy, Linguine has been a popular dish throughout Italy for centuries and continues to tantalize taste buds all over the world. As the Italians say, buon appetito!

FAQs about Linguine

How is spaghetti different to linguine?

Spaghetti is made from a thicker, rounder grade of pasta than linguine. Linguine is a long, flat noodle that is slightly thinner and wider than spaghetti.


What is fettuccine vs linguine?

Fettuccine and linguine are both types of pasta, but they differ in shape. Fettuccine is wider and flatter than linguine, which is thinner and more narrow. Fettuccine is ideal for dishes with creamy, chunky sauces, while linguine works best with thinner sauces.


What is linguine eaten with?

Linguine is often served with sauces such as pesto, marinara, or tomato sauce, and can also be served with seafood, vegetables, meat, or cheese.


Which is better linguine or spaghetti?

That depends on what you're making. Linguine is usually a better choice for dishes with heavier sauces, while spaghetti is better for lighter sauces.


Types of Linguine

When it comes to pasta dishes, few can compare to the savory goodness of linguine. This classic Italian dish dates back centuries, with its name coming from the Italian word for "tongue," a fitting description for this long, thin strands of pasta. Linguine may look like spaghetti, but it has its own unique flavor profile and can be boiled, baked, or even fried. Depending on your tastes and occasion, there are many different types of linguine that you can prepare. Here's a look at just a few of them.

Capellini alla Checca is a delightful linguine dish made with a fragrant tomato sauce. This pasta is created by combining capellini (thin strands of angel hair) and a mix of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Linguine alle Vongole is a classic Italian dish that features baby clams. This pasta is usually served in a briny white wine sauce, along with parsley, garlic, and butter. This combination of flavors creates a delicate balance that's difficult to replicate.

Fettuccine Alfredo is one of the most popular variations of linguine. To make this dish, fettuccine is cooked in a velvety smooth garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. This classic is a favorite among both kids and adults alike and is ideal for magical family dinners.

Another delicious and crowd-pleasing linguine dish is Pesto. This classic pesto sauce is made from fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. It's then tossed with linguine for a burst of flavor that's sure to leave everyone craving for more.

Finally, Linguine Carbonara is the perfect combination of creamy and savory. This delightful pasta is commonly made with bacon, eggs, cream, and parmesan cheese. This luxurious dish is creamy, rich and incredibly comforting.

No matter which type of linguine you choose, you're bound to have a delicious meal. Each has its own unique flavor, allowing you to explore and create memorable dining experiences. So why don't you try out a few variations and discover your favorite?