As Fast As a Speeding Clam

One of my fastest meals is also one of my family’s favorites: Linguine With Clam Sauce. Have one can of chopped clams for each portion. Saute garlic, oregano, parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a mixture of 3 tablespoons olive oil and 3 tablespoons butter.

Meanwhile, boil water for the pasta. When the pasta water boils, drop in the linguine. Add clams to the sauce mixture and heat. When the pasta’s done and drained, place it in a serving bowl and spoon the clam mixture over the top. Offer grated Parmesan-Reggiano. I serve this with a side salad of bagged greens dressed with olive oil and vinegar. Yum.

JULIE KESSLER

Santa Barbara

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How do you get dinner on the table fast? We mean real fast. The rules: No more than one stop on the way home, no more than 10 minutes’ prep time. The rest is up to you. To share your idea, write to The Last Minute, Los Angeles Times Food Section, Times Mirror Square, Los Angeles, CA 90053. Or e-mail us at food@latimes.com.