Pasta with mushrooms and pesto

Pasta with mushrooms and pesto: Delicious and quick recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a dish that combines the rich flavors of mushrooms, the freshness of pesto, and the creaminess of sour cream? This recipe for pasta with mushrooms and pesto is not only simple but also incredibly tasty. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests, this dish will transport you to a world of Mediterranean flavors without requiring any special culinary skills. So, let’s get started!

Necessary ingredients

- 250 g pasta (choose your favorite type: spaghetti, fusilli, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 can (500 g) mixed mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms, if you prefer)
- 4 tablespoons pesto (you can choose classic basil pesto or a sun-dried tomato variant)
- 150 g sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient details

- Pasta: Opt for whole grain pasta for a higher fiber content. They are not only healthier but will also add a pleasant texture to the dish.
- Mushrooms: The canned mixed mushrooms are a quick choice, but fresh mushrooms (champignon, shiitake, or a combination) will provide superior taste and texture.
- Pesto: Pesto is a versatile ingredient, and if you want to add a personal touch, you can try making pesto at home. It’s simple and will give you the satisfaction of creating something from scratch.

Preparation steps

1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt (about a tablespoon), and when the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes between 8 and 12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Retaining the liquid: When the pasta is cooked, drain it, but keep about 100 ml of the water it was cooked in. This liquid will help create a creamier sauce and enhance the flavor of the dish.

3. Cooking the mushrooms: While the pasta is boiling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and wait a few seconds for it to heat up. Add the drained mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are golden and tender. If using fresh mushrooms, you may need to cook them a little longer.

4. Adding the pasta: Once the mushrooms are ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved liquid. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Creating the sauce: At this stage, add the pesto and sour cream. Stir everything carefully until the pasta is fully coated with sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top or a few fresh basil leaves for an attractive appearance. This pasta with mushrooms and pesto is delicious and pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a flavorful focaccia.

Serving suggestions and variations

To add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle a few drops of lemon juice over the pasta before serving. You can also experiment with various types of pesto, such as red pepper pesto or even walnut pesto for a different taste. If you are a protein lover, add cooked chicken cubes or sautéed shrimp for an even heartier meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, frozen mushrooms are a good choice. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before sautéing.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but you can use plant-based sour cream to make it more vegan-friendly.

3. Can I replace the sour cream?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan sour cream alternative to lower calories or adapt the recipe.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe for pasta with mushrooms and pesto offers a healthy balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins, while pesto adds a source of healthy fats, such as those from nuts and olive oil, helping to maintain heart health.

Conclusion

Enjoy a serving of pasta with mushrooms and pesto, a quick and easy recipe that will not only satisfy your hunger but will also bring a touch of joy with every bite. It can quickly become a favorite on your menu, perfect for any occasion! So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a delicious, flavorful dish!