Pasta with mushrooms and sausages

Pasta with Mushrooms and Sausages - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

When it comes to simple yet flavorful dishes, pasta with mushrooms and sausages is a favorite for many. This dish combines the creamy textures of the mushroom and sausage sauce, providing a comforting and satisfying culinary experience. Not only is it a quick recipe, but it's also a great way to turn a few simple ingredients into a delicious feast.

Recipe History

Pasta is a staple food in many culinary cultures, with deep historical roots. Whether served with rich sauces or lighter ingredients, pasta has evolved and adapted over time. Combined with mushrooms and sausages, this dish perfectly reflects the synergy between tradition and innovation, having been loved for thousands of years.

Ingredients

- 250 g pasta (spaghetti or your preferred type)
- 200 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or oyster)
- 200 g sausages (pork, beef, or chicken)
- 150 g cream (cooking cream, "panna da cucina" type)
- 50 g cheese (feta or grated parmesan)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower)
- Dried basil (for seasoning)

Useful Tips on Ingredients

- Choosing Pasta: Opt for quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat, as it holds its shape well and has a pleasant texture when cooked.
- Sausages: Choose fresh sausages with low additives. If you enjoy bolder flavors, you can go for smoked sausages, which will add a distinctive taste.
- Mushrooms: Opt for fresh mushrooms, as they have a better texture than canned ones. If you want a more intense flavor, you can try shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
- Cream: Ensure the cream you choose has a fat content of at least 20% to achieve a creamy sauce.

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Boiling the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt (about one tablespoon for each liter of water) and let it boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and follow the cooking time indicated on the package. I recommend cooking the pasta al dente for a pleasant texture.

2. Rinsing the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander. Instead of rinsing it directly with cold water, start with warm water to avoid shocking the pasta. Gradually let the water cool down so the pasta won't become sticky. Leave it to drain.

3. Preparing the Ingredients: While the pasta is boiling, slice the mushrooms thinly. Cut the sausages into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference.

4. Cooking the Mushrooms and Sausages: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it up. Add the sausages and sauté them over medium heat until they turn golden. Then, add the mushrooms and continue cooking until they become soft and release their juices. This step will add a rich flavor to the dish.

5. Creating the Sauce: After the mushrooms are cooked, add the cream to the skillet and stir until combined with the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

6. Combining the Pasta with the Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat it with the sauce. Ensure that each strand of pasta is well covered to blend the flavors.

7. Serving: Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated cheese on top and seasoned with dried basil. This garnish will add extra flavor and color to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, you can accompany the pasta with a fresh vegetable salad or a green salad with lemon dressing. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a light red will perfectly complement this meal. If you want a touch of freshness, you can add a few drops of lemon juice before serving.

Possible Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or more exotic varieties. Additionally, substituting the sausages with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option can bring a different flavor. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.

Nutritional Information

This recipe offers a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, making it an excellent option for lunch or dinner. One serving contains approximately 500 calories, depending on the type of sausages and cream used. Mushrooms provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, adding more fiber and nutrients to the dish.

2. Can I freeze pasta with sauce?
It's advisable not to freeze pasta with sauce, as the texture may change. I recommend consuming it fresh.

3. Can I substitute the cream?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a lighter version, but the taste will be different.

4. How can I make the pasta spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce during cooking for an extra kick of flavor and heat.

This pasta recipe with mushrooms and sausages is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, giving you the chance to enjoy a tasty meal in a short time. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and customize it to your taste! Bon appétit!