Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms

Vegetarian Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms Recipe from USA

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

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms is a delicious and creamy dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the richness of cream cheese and the crunch of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional rice dishes, incorporating creamy cream cheese and nutty walnuts for added flavor and texture. It is a popular dish in many households for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

0.33 cup butter or margarine
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 x 3 oz (85 g) package cream cheese, cubed
3 cups cooked rice
2 cups fresh spinach, torn
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.5 cup chopped walnuts
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the mushrooms and cook until they are soft, which should take around 2 to 4 minutes.
Stir in the cream cheese until it is melted.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the rice and stir until it is well blended and heated through, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the rice mixture with the spinach, Parmesan cheese, walnuts, salt, and pepper. Toss well.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Substitute different types of mushrooms for a variety of flavors.
Use different types of nuts such as almonds or pecans for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the mushrooms until they are soft to bring out their full flavor.

- Be sure to stir the cream cheese until it is fully melted to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

- Toss the rice mixture gently to avoid breaking the grains of rice and to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown for added flavor.

- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute arugula or kale for spinach for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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

Calories: 360 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 21g per serving

Saturated Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 10g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Calcium: 150mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Nuts

Summary

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Summary

Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms is a flavorful and creamy dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. With a combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy cream cheese, and crunchy walnuts, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves crunching under my feet as I walked through the bustling market. The air was filled with the scent of fresh produce and spices, and I couldn't help but feel invigorated by the energy around me.

As I perused the stalls, my eyes landed on a small booth tucked away in a corner. An elderly woman with a kind smile stood behind the counter, surrounded by jars of homemade jams and pickles. Intrigued, I approached her and struck up a conversation. She told me about her love for cooking and how she had traveled the world, collecting recipes from every corner of the globe.

One particular recipe caught my attention – a fragrant dish of Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms. The combination of nutty walnuts, creamy cheese, and earthy mushrooms sounded like a match made in heaven. I begged her to share the recipe with me, and after some cajoling, she finally relented.

The old woman handed me a tattered piece of paper with faded ink, the ingredients and instructions scribbled in a neat, looping script. My heart raced with excitement as I read through the recipe, imagining the rich flavors and textures melding together in a delicious harmony.

That evening, I rushed home and set to work in my kitchen, gathering the ingredients and following the instructions to a T. The scent of sautéed mushrooms and toasted walnuts filled the air, mingling with the creamy richness of the cream cheese. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As I took my first bite of the Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms, I was transported to a culinary paradise. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite a symphony of tastes and textures. The nuttiness of the walnuts complemented the earthiness of the mushrooms, while the cream cheese added a luxurious creaminess to the dish.

From that moment on, Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I remembered the kind old woman at the market who had shared her recipe with me, and I felt a sense of gratitude for the joy she had brought into my life.

Over the years, I've added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different types of mushrooms, cheeses, and seasonings. But no matter how many times I make it, the dish always brings back memories of that crisp autumn day at the market, when I discovered a recipe that would become a beloved favorite in my culinary repertoire.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that it brings you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me. May you savor each bite of Walnut Rice with Cream Cheese and Mushrooms, and may it become a cherished part of your own culinary journey. Bon appétit!