Baked mushrooms

Oven-Baked Mushrooms – A Family Recipe Full of Memories

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

We all have special moments from our childhood, and for me, Sundays were always dedicated to delicious meals filled with culinary traditions. My grandmother cooked with such love, and the aroma of the roasts baking in the oven was a true feast for the senses. Over the years, I learned that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that bring us the most beautiful memories. Today, I will share with you a simple and tasty recipe for oven-baked mushrooms, which will surely become a favorite side dish or even a main course to enjoy with your loved ones.

Necessary ingredients:
- 8-10 large mushrooms (preferably champignon or fresh forest mushrooms)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 3 tablespoons of butter (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Before we start, let’s talk about our ingredients. Mushrooms are undoubtedly the stars of this dish. They are not only delicious but also very nutritious, rich in B vitamins, vitamin D, antioxidants, and minerals. Another essential ingredient is garlic, which not only adds a unique flavor but also brings numerous health benefits, having antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Step 1: Preparing the mushrooms
Carefully clean the mushrooms, removing their stems. It is important to wash them quickly under a stream of water, as mushrooms absorb water like a sponge. If you have very dirty mushrooms, you can gently rub them with a damp cloth. After cleaning, chop the stems into small cubes to add to our flavorful mixture.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture
In a bowl, finely chop the garlic cloves and add them to the softened butter (or olive oil). Add the finely chopped parsley and the chopped mushroom stems. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous and aromatic mixture.

Step 3: Assembling the dish
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the mushrooms in a baking dish, with the “cup” side up. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on each mushroom and add a tablespoon of the garlic, butter, and parsley mixture. Make sure each mushroom is well filled so that the flavor penetrates well during baking.

Step 4: Baking
Insert the dish into the preheated oven and let the mushrooms bake for about 30 minutes. You will notice how the mushrooms change color, and the enticing aroma will fill the entire kitchen. It’s a perfect moment to prepare a fresh salad or make a mashed potato side dish.

Step 5: Serving
After the mushrooms are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, possibly alongside a slice of fresh bread or a green salad. These mushrooms are not only a perfect accompaniment to roasts but can also be a vegetarian main dish, accompanied by a side of rice or quinoa.

Practical tips:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, try adding some grated parmesan to the butter mixture.
- If you love spices, add a pinch of sweet or hot paprika for a touch of originality.
- For a vegan option, replace the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of oven-baked mushrooms contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of butter or oil used. They are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially B and D), and minerals, contributing to a healthy and balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! You can experiment with shiitake, portobello, or any other favorite mushrooms.

- How can I store leftover mushrooms?
You can store the mushrooms in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or skillet before serving.

- What can I pair with oven-baked mushrooms?
These mushrooms pair perfectly with an arugula and cherry tomato salad or with creamy mashed potatoes. A recommended drink would be a dry white wine to complement the delicious flavors.

This oven-baked mushroom recipe is not just a simple side dish but a vivid memory of childhood and the time spent with loved ones. I encourage each of you to experiment and add your own variations. Cooking is an art that brings us together, and every meal prepared with love has the power to turn an ordinary day into a celebration. Enjoy your meal!