Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe | Vegan Italian Cuisine

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

Vegan diet

Introduction

Pasta with creamy mushroom sauce is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender pasta, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

This recipe has its roots in Italian cuisine, where pasta is a staple food. The addition of creamy mushroom sauce adds a rich and indulgent twist to the classic pasta dish.

Ingredients

500 g pasta
2.5 cups sliced mushrooms
1 large onion (chopped)
1 tsp basil
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp thyme
0.75 cup cooking sherry
2 tbsp Tofutti cream cheese
1 cup soy milk
1 – 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

In a large pot, bring water to a boil for the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, sauté the onions in olive oil for about 5 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the onions and continue sautéing.
Season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the sherry and mix in the cream cheese.
Allow the wine and cream cheese sauce to reduce slightly, then add the soy milk.
Stir in the garlic and let the sauce thicken for a couple of minutes before pouring it over the cooked pasta.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use different types of mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for a unique flavor.
Stir in some spinach or kale for added nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the mushrooms until they are golden brown and caramelized for maximum flavor.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more herbs or spices.

- For a richer sauce, you can use heavy cream instead of soy milk.

- To make the sauce extra creamy, blend it in a food processor before pouring it over the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta with creamy mushroom sauce with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the mushrooms and onions until they are caramelized for maximum flavor.

- Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken before pouring it over the pasta.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular cream cheese instead of Tofutti cream cheese for a dairy-based version.

- Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for soy milk if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the creamy mushroom sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and pour it over freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pasta with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pasta with creamy mushroom sauce contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Carbohydrates

The pasta in this dish provides a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy production and fueling your body.

Fats

The creamy mushroom sauce adds a dose of healthy fats from the olive oil and Tofutti cream cheese, which are important for brain function and nutrient absorption.

Proteins

Mushrooms are a good source of plant-based protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, potassium, and selenium, which are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat ingredients, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these foods.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Pasta with creamy mushroom sauce is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory mushrooms, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me in for a cup of tea and a chat. Little did I know, this simple gesture would lead to one of my favorite recipes of all time.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping our tea and talking about the day's events, she suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. After a few minutes, she emerged with a worn and tattered cookbook in hand. She turned to a page that was clearly well-loved and showed signs of many spills and splatters.

"This," she said with a smile, "is my favorite recipe for Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. I think you'll love it too."

I eagerly watched as she gathered the ingredients and began to cook. The smell of garlic and mushrooms wafted through the air, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. As she stirred the cream into the sauce, I knew I was in for a treat.

After a few more minutes of cooking, she plated the pasta and sauce and handed me a fork. I took a bite and closed my eyes in pure bliss. The creamy sauce coated the pasta perfectly, and the mushrooms added a delightful earthy flavor.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged her for the recipe, and she graciously wrote it down for me. I couldn't wait to make it for my own family and friends.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with countless people. Each time, I tell the story of how I came to learn it and how it has become a staple in my own kitchen. I have made a few adjustments here and there, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that, but the core of the recipe remains the same.

To make Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce, you will need:

- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (I prefer fettuccine or penne)

- 1 tablespoon of olive oil

- 1 pound of mushrooms, sliced

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 cup of heavy cream

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and garlic, and cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and the garlic is fragrant.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This recipe is simple yet luxurious, perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

I am forever grateful to my neighbor for introducing me to this recipe. It has brought so much joy and flavor to my life, and I hope it will do the same for you. Happy cooking!