Pasta with mushrooms

Here’s a delightful recipe for pasta with mushrooms that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal any time!

Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe

Ingredients:

• 300 g (about 10 oz) pasta (e.g., fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• 400 g (about 14 oz) fresh mushrooms (e.g., button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

3. Cook the Mushrooms:

   • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.

4. Add Broth and Cream:

   • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • After a few minutes, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine it with the mushroom sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve:

   • Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips:

• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition.
• Make It Vegan: Use pasta made without egg, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a vegan version.

Enjoy your creamy and savory pasta with mushrooms!