Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta Vegetarian Recipe
This delicious vegetarian recipe combines the earthy flavors of spinach and mushrooms with a creamy sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that will please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive in and create this delightful creamy spinach and mushroom pasta!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) of pasta (penne or fusilli works well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and released their moisture.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir well until the spinach wilts and cooks down, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) until it has melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat it with the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce. Make sure all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the creamy spinach and mushroom pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy this delectable vegetarian dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Tips:
- You can add extra vegetables to this dish, such as diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the flavors and increase the nutritional value.
- For a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to add more depth to the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
This creamy spinach and mushroom pasta recipe is a delightful vegetarian option that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and creamy sauce creates a rich and satisfying dish. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, this recipe is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this vegetarian pasta and savor each delicious bite!
