Ingredients

  • 4 1/4 ounces whole-wheat penne
  • 2 1/4 ounces hazelnuts (1/2 cup)
  • 1/2 stick salted butter (4 tablespoons)
  • 3 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chile flakes
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish
  • Sea salt
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Method

  • Cook the whole-wheat pasta in boiling salted water, according to package directions.
  • Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
  • Preheat the oven to 350.
  • Place the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant.
  • Remove from the oven and when cool enough to handle, roughly chop them.
  • In a large frying pan, heat the butter over medium high heat until it is dark brown but not black.
  • Add all of the mushrooms to the pan.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and brown.
  • Add the garlic and chile flakes and cook 1 minute more.
  • Add the penne and toss to coat.
  • Sprinkle with a little of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
  • Remove from the heat and stir in the olive oil and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Top with the hazelnuts and a little parsley.
  • Serve with the extra cheese.