Description
Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Asparagus Pasta
Indulge in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with sautéed mushrooms and asparagus in a rich garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
300g penne pasta
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup asparagus, chopped
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions:
Boil pasta until al dente, then drain.
Sauté garlic, mushrooms, and asparagus in butter and oil.
Pour in heavy cream, then add Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Mix in pasta and combine well.
Garnish & Serve with extra cheese and fresh herbs.
Savor every bite!
Make it spicy by adding extra red pepper flakes!
#ComfortFoodPasta
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they have released their moisture and browned. Stir in the chopped asparagus and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is best served immediately. Plate the pasta and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil, and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for color and heat. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or with a slice of crusty garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta and reserve water. Sauté garlic, mushrooms, and asparagus. Create the sauce by simmering cream and melting in Parmesan. Combine sauce with pasta, thinning with pasta water if needed. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well with this creamy sauce. The key is using a shape that holds the sauce.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? It already is! Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is made with vegetarian rennet if required.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour can work, but the sauce will be less rich and may require longer simmering to thicken.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I add protein to this pasta? Yes. Sliced grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even white beans are excellent additions. Cook the protein separately and stir it in when you combine the pasta and sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the vegetables: Sauté mushrooms until just browned and asparagus until tender-crisp to maintain texture.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate a block of Parmesan fresh for a smooth melt.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
- Adding cheese to boiling liquid: Always reduce heat before adding Parmesan to prevent it from separating and becoming oily.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Asparagus Pasta is the epitome of a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, and a luxuriously cheesy garlic sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a flawless dish every time. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes customization, making it a guaranteed favorite for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Enjoy the comfort in every bite!
