Garlic mushrooms

Stuffed Champignon Mushrooms with Garlic and Parmesan

I propose a simple and delicious recipe for stuffed mushrooms, perfect for a snack, an appetizer, or even a main dish alongside a fresh salad. These stuffed champignon mushrooms with garlic and parmesan are not only tasty but also very easy to prepare. Moreover, they can transform an ordinary meal into a special culinary experience. Whether you serve them at a dinner with friends or prepare them for a quiet evening at home, these mushrooms will delight you!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g fresh champignon mushrooms
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 6 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- Olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

A Bit of History
Mushrooms have been an essential food in many cultures throughout history, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Champignon mushrooms, in particular, are very popular due to their firm texture and ability to absorb flavors. These stuffed mushrooms with garlic and parmesan are a classic combination, often served in restaurants, but now you can easily prepare them at home.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Mushrooms: Wash the mushrooms well under cold running water to remove impurities. Using a small knife, peel the skin off the mushrooms and remove the stems. These will be used in the filling, so keep them!

2. Chopping the Stems: Finely chop the stems. This step is important as it will allow the flavors to incorporate better into the filling.

3. Sautéing the Garlic: In a skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the peeled garlic cloves, keeping them whole. Sauté them until they become slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Then, remove them from the skillet to avoid burning the filling.

4. Cooking the Stems: In the same skillet, add the chopped mushroom stems. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Sauté them for 7-8 minutes until they become soft and release their juice. This is the phase where the flavors develop, so don’t neglect them!

5. Mixing the Filling: Once the stems are ready, turn off the heat and add the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and if desired, the chopped parsley. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous and consistent mixture.

6. Filling the Mushrooms: Using a teaspoon, fill each mushroom with the prepared mixture. Make sure the filling is well compacted, but don’t force it too much to avoid breaking the mushrooms.

7. Baking: Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish, lightly drizzling them with olive oil to give them a golden crust. Bake them in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes until they become golden and crispy on the outside.

8. Serving: Serve the stuffed mushrooms immediately, warm, sprinkled with a little fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of flavor and color. They pair wonderfully with a green salad or a glass of dry white wine.

Practical Tips
- Fresh Mushrooms: Choose fresh mushrooms, looking firm and without blemishes. Larger mushrooms are excellent for stuffing, but you can also use smaller ones for an elegant presentation.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use whole grain breadcrumbs for a healthier option. Also, you can add spices or herbs to customize the filling.
- Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, to change the flavor. You can also add sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for an extra nutrient boost.
- Garlic Care: If you like a stronger garlic flavor, you can crush the garlic cloves before sautéing them, but be careful not to burn them.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I prepare the mushrooms a day in advance? Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the mushrooms a day in advance. Keep them in the refrigerator and bake them before serving.
- Can I freeze the stuffed mushrooms? It is recommended not to freeze the stuffed mushrooms, as their texture may alter upon thawing. Cook them fresh for the best results.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of stuffed mushrooms contains approximately 210 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used. Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a filling and healthy food. Parmesan adds protein and calcium, while garlic has antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Conclusion
These stuffed champignon mushrooms with garlic and parmesan are a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them alone or with loved ones, you are sure to bring a smile to the faces of those who taste them. Try this simple and quick recipe and let yourself be carried away by the unmistakable flavors of stuffed mushrooms! Enjoy your meal!