Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe | Vegetarian Pasta | New England Cuisine

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Creamy Mushroom Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe features a creamy sauce made with assorted sliced mushrooms, chicken broth, and light cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

Creamy Mushroom Pasta has been a popular dish for many years, with variations of the recipe found in different cuisines around the world. The combination of mushrooms and creamy sauce is a classic pairing that has stood the test of time. This recipe puts a modern twist on the traditional dish, making it even more delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) campanile or bow-tie pasta
2 tbsp margarine or butter
1 lb (454 g) assorted sliced mushrooms (cremini, portobello, white, etc.)
1 cup chicken broth
1 4.4 oz (125 g) package light garlic and herb spreadable cheese
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp coarsely ground black pepper

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, prepare the pasta according to the package instructions.
In a 12" non-stick skillet, melt the margarine over medium-high heat.
Add the mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 12 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the broth and cheese.
Heat through, stirring to combine.
Drain the pasta.
In a large serving bowl, toss the pasta with the mushroom mixture and serve.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use different types of mushrooms for a variety of flavors.
Substitute the light cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the mushrooms until they are lightly browned to bring out their rich flavor.

- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the mushrooms from sticking to the pan.

- Toss the pasta with the mushroom mixture just before serving to ensure that it is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Pasta can be served with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the mushrooms over medium-high heat to ensure that they are properly browned.

- Stir the mushroom mixture constantly to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

- Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamy Mushroom Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Creamy Mushroom Pasta with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Creamy Mushroom Pasta pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Creamy Mushroom Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creamy Mushroom Pasta contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Mushroom Pasta contains approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creamy Mushroom Pasta contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Creamy Mushroom Pasta contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy Mushroom Pasta is a good source of vitamin D, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Creamy Mushroom Pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Creamy Mushroom Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy sauce and flavorful mushrooms, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Creamy Mushroom Pasta. It was many years ago, during a summer vacation in Tuscany. I had been invited to a friend's house for dinner and she served us this delicious dish that immediately captured my taste buds.

The creamy sauce was perfectly balanced with the earthy flavors of the mushrooms, and the pasta was cooked al dente just the way I liked it. I asked my friend for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with a few tips and tricks to make it even more delicious.

As I returned home from my vacation, I couldn't wait to try making the Creamy Mushroom Pasta myself. I gathered all the ingredients - fresh mushrooms, heavy cream, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and of course, pasta. I followed my friend's instructions carefully, sautéing the mushrooms until they were golden brown and fragrant, then adding in the cream and letting it simmer until it thickened.

The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that I was on the right track. I cooked the pasta, drained it, and then tossed it in the creamy mushroom sauce. As I took my first bite, I closed my eyes and savored the flavors that danced on my tongue.

From that moment on, Creamy Mushroom Pasta became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even on nights when I wanted a comforting meal just for myself. Each time I made it, I would add a little twist here and there, experimenting with different types of mushrooms or adding a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family members who were equally enchanted by its simplicity and deliciousness. Some would ask me for cooking demonstrations, while others would call me in a panic when their sauce wouldn't thicken or their pasta turned out too mushy. I always reassured them that practice makes perfect, and that even the most experienced cooks make mistakes from time to time.

As I continued to make Creamy Mushroom Pasta, I started to incorporate other recipes and techniques that I had learned along the way. I would make homemade pasta from scratch, using a blend of semolina flour and eggs to create silky strands that cooked up beautifully. I would also experiment with different types of cheeses, like Gruyère or Fontina, to add a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.

One day, while shopping at the local farmer's market, I came across a vendor selling wild mushrooms that had been foraged in the nearby forest. I couldn't resist buying a few pounds of chanterelles, morels, and porcini, and I knew that they would elevate my Creamy Mushroom Pasta to new heights.

I rushed home, cleaned and sliced the mushrooms, and added them to the sauce along with a generous handful of fresh herbs. The aroma that filled my kitchen was unlike anything I had ever experienced before - it was earthy, woodsy, and utterly intoxicating.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but marvel at how far I had come since that fateful summer in Tuscany. I had taken a simple recipe and turned it into a masterpiece, thanks to the knowledge and skills that I had acquired over the years.

Now, whenever I make Creamy Mushroom Pasta, I think back to that sense of wonder that I felt when I first saw the recipe. It serves as a reminder that cooking is not just about following instructions, but about passion, creativity, and a willingness to learn and grow. And for that, I am forever grateful.