Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Description

Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Cozy, comforting, and packed with umami, this creamy mushroom spinach pasta is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or romantic date nights. Simple yet wholesome, it takes less than 30 minutes and features earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety cream sauce. Customize it with protein like tofu or chicken, or add your favorite veggies such as broccoli, kale, or peas. This vegetarian dish can easily be made vegan or gluten-free for everyone to enjoy!

2 cups Penne Pasta
2 tbsp Olive Oil
200g Mushrooms (sliced)
2 cups Spinach (chopped)
1 small Onion (diced)
2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
2 tbsp Parsley (chopped)
1/4 tsp Rosemary
1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning
1/2 tsp Crushed Black Pepper
1 tsp Salt
1/4 cup Parmesan (grated)
1/3 cup Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk

Directions:
1. Cook pasta and reserve pasta water.
2. Sauté mushrooms until golden, add onions and garlic.
3. Add spinach, then cream, herbs, and Parmesan.
4. Combine pasta with sauce, adjust seasoning.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 380 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes without stirring until they release their water and turn golden brown.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the spinach is just wilted.
5. Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan, parsley, rosemary, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until your desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile pasta dish pairs beautifully with various sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread. To add protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared tofu. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs just before serving adds a final touch of flavor.

How-to Summary

In short, cook your pasta and save some water. Sauté mushrooms until golden, then cook onions and garlic. Wilt the spinach, create the creamy sauce with herbs and cheese, then combine everything with the pasta, using pasta water to perfect the sauce consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegan? Absolutely. Use coconut milk for the cream and a high-quality vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast in place of dairy Parmesan.

How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or plant-based milk to loosen the sauce.

What other mushrooms work well? Cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms are excellent for deeper flavor. Use a mix for a more complex taste.

Is there a gluten-free option? Yes. Simply substitute the penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta brand. Ensure all other ingredients, like seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. Alternatively, create a quick slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta only until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the hot sauce.
• Crowding the Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms in a single layer to ensure they brown properly instead of steaming.
• Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for helping the sauce cling to the pasta and adjusting thickness.
• Adding Cheese to High Heat: Add Parmesan off the heat or on very low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating.

Conclusion

This creamy spinach mushroom pasta is the ultimate quick, satisfying, and customizable dinner. With its rich sauce, earthy flavors, and simple process, it’s a reliable recipe that can be adapted to suit various diets and preferences. Mastering the few key techniques outlined will ensure a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight favorite for years to come.