Penne with cream and mushrooms

Penne with cream and mushrooms – A delicious and comforting recipe

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

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes it's best to return to the basics of cooking: simple ingredients, prepared with love. Our penne with cream and mushrooms recipe is an adaptation of the classic carbonara sauce, but with a personal touch, perfect for those who love rich and comforting flavors. It's a dish that will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your soul, ideal for a family dinner or an evening spent with friends.

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g penne (Italian pasta, perfect for capturing the sauce)
- 300 g mushrooms (choose fresh mushrooms, such as champignon or oyster)
- 200 ml cream (opt for cooking cream for a creamier sauce)
- 1 medium onion (a sweet and aromatic addition)
- 1 clove of garlic (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1 large tomato (adds a touch of freshness)
- 50 g grated parmesan (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for a Mediterranean aroma)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)

Step by step: Preparing penne with cream and mushrooms

1. Boil the penne: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt and a splash of olive oil. When the water is boiling, add the penne and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10 and 12 minutes, until al dente.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic. Sautéing these will release delicious aromas, so stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.

3. Add the mushrooms: Slice the mushrooms thinly and add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and lightly browned. This step is essential, as sautéed mushrooms will add wonderful texture to your sauce.

4. Complete the sauce: Once the mushrooms are ready, add the diced tomato, salt, pepper, and oregano. Let everything simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, so the flavors can meld together.

5. Add the cream: Pour the cream into the skillet and mix well. Cook the sauce for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes creamy and homogeneous.

6. Combine the penne with the sauce: When the penne are cooked, drain them and quickly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Add the penne to the skillet, along with the grated parmesan. Mix everything well, leaving it on the heat for 2 minutes, so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.

7. Serving: You can serve the penne with cream and mushrooms immediately, topping with a few flakes of grated parmesan and, if desired, a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. A crisp green salad or a fresh baguette on the side makes a perfect combination.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Make sure to use fresh mushrooms, not canned, for a better texture.
- You can replace the cream with a vegan option, such as cashew cream or silken tofu for a healthier version.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add chili flakes to the sauce.
- Don’t forget to keep a little of the pasta cooking water; it can help thin the sauce if it’s too thick.

Nutritional benefits:
This penne with cream and mushrooms recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the cream and mushrooms, as well as vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! You can adapt the recipe using farfalle, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
- How can I make this dish healthier? Replace the cream with Greek yogurt or plain yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- What wine pairs well with this dish? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, would perfectly complement the flavors.

Pairings with other recipes:
These penne with cream and mushrooms pair wonderfully with a green salad with lemon dressing or an appetizer of tomato bruschetta. You can also serve this dish alongside a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect lunch or dinner.

In conclusion, penne with cream and mushrooms is more than just a simple recipe; it’s a culinary experience that combines simple yet flavorful ingredients in a way that will delight any table. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!