Start by prepping all your ingredients. Slice the garlic thinly, chop the asparagus and broccoli, and clean the squid or cuttlefish. This will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

In a large pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant. This typically takes about 1 minute. Then, toss in the asparagus and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften, maintaining some crunch.

Next, add the cleaned squid or cuttlefish to the pan. Stir well and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until they turn opaque. Avoid overcooking as squid can become rubbery quickly.

Slice the shiitake mushrooms and add them to the pan. These add a meaty texture and earthy flavor. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes until the mushrooms soften.

Pour in the sake and soy sauce. Mix well, ensuring all the ingredients are coated evenly. At this point, the aroma fills the kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Season your dish with freshly ground black pepper and sea salt to taste. If you decide to use sesame oil or lemon juice, add them now for an extra layer of flavor.

In a separate pot, cook your pasta according to package instructions. When ready, drain and immediately add to the pan with squid and vegetables. Toss everything together to combine well.