Pasta with white sauce and mushrooms

Pasta with white sauce and mushrooms: a quick and delicious recipe

Kitchens around the world have discovered the magic of pasta, a versatile food that can be prepared in countless ways. Today, I invite you to explore a simple yet refined recipe for pasta with white sauce and mushrooms. This recipe is not only quick but also full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 200 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- 1 small can of mushrooms (about 200 g)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 50 ml milk
- 200 ml cream
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history of the recipe:

Pasta with white sauce and mushrooms is an adaptation of Mediterranean culinary tradition, where creamy sauces are often used to complement the texture and flavor of pasta. Mushrooms add an extra layer of flavor and umami, transforming a simple dish into a delicacy. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a quick meal that is also full of taste.

Preparing the recipe:

1. Preparing the mushrooms:
Start by draining the mushrooms from the can in a colander. Rinse them with cold water to remove excess salt. Then, chop the mushrooms finely. This will help distribute the flavors evenly in the sauce.

2. Sauté the mushrooms:
In a deep pan, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped mushrooms and the minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms become slightly golden. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Preparing the roux:
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of flour with 50 ml of milk, mixing well to avoid lumps. This will be the base of our white sauce. Add this mixture to the pan over the mushrooms and stir continuously to prevent sticking. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Adding the cream:
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the 200 ml of cream. Mix well and let it simmer gently, without letting it boil too hard to avoid curdling the cream. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a little more cream or milk to thin it out.

5. Boiling the pasta:
Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions (usually around 10 minutes for al dente pasta). Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finishing the dish:
After the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it directly to the pan with the white sauce and mushrooms. Gently stir to combine the pasta with the sauce. Add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra layer of flavor and color.

7. Serving:
Portion the pasta onto plates and sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness. This pasta with white sauce and mushrooms is delicious and can be served warm alongside a green salad or a slice of fresh bread.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the pasta: You can use any type of pasta you prefer. Spaghetti is a classic choice, but penne or fettuccine will hold the sauce better due to their shape.
- Fresh vs. canned mushrooms: If you have fresh mushrooms available, feel free to use them. Cook them at the same stage, but make sure to slice them thinly to reduce cooking time.
- Sauce variations: You can add grated parmesan cheese to the sauce for a more intense flavor or a few drops of soy sauce for an Asian twist.
- Enriching the recipe: If you want to make this dish even more nutritious, add vegetables like spinach or broccolini, which will wilt quickly in the sauce.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use plant-based cream? Yes, plant-based cream is a good alternative for those who prefer a dairy-free diet.
- How many calories does this recipe have? A serving of pasta with white sauce and mushrooms contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the type of pasta used and the amount of cream.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a refreshing spritz will perfectly complement pasta meals. Also, fresh lemonade can add a touch of freshness.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start cooking! Pasta with white sauce and mushrooms is not only a delicious choice but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!