Name: Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti or tagliatelle recommended); 2 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced; 3 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta is a sumptuous vegetarian dish that features a rich blend of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a decadent Parmesan cream sauce. This pasta dish is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti or tagliatelle recommended)
2 tbsp olive oil
8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
3 cups fresh spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden and tender.

Step 3: To the mushrooms, add the fresh spinach and continue to cook until the spinach has wilted down.

Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the cream to thicken slightly before stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, ensuring that the pasta is well coated. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Note

For the best flavor, use fresh Parmesan that you grate yourself; it melts better and imparts a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad and a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the richness of the sauce.

Tips

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or a light cream for the heavy cream.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors of the spinach and mushrooms.
If you prefer a bit of crunch, top the pasta with toasted breadcrumbs just before serving.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

20 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

Nutritional Information

This dish is rich in calcium from the Parmesan cheese and provides a good source of iron from the spinach, making it both a hearty and healthful choice.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dish vegan? A1: Yes, use a plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan to adapt this recipe for a vegan diet.

Q2: How can I store leftovers? A2: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a little milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, this pasta is sure to impress with its creamy texture and rich taste.