Spaghetti with mushroom sauce

Mushroom Sauce Spaghetti: A Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a bowl of delicious spaghetti? This mushroom sauce spaghetti recipe is perfect for a quick yet sophisticated dinner that will captivate you with its rich aroma. Additionally, it is a healthy choice, packed with nutrients, that can be enjoyed both warm and cold. Over the years, spaghetti has become a symbol of gastronomy, appreciated worldwide. Let’s venture into preparing this simple yet flavorful dish.

Ingredients
- 300 g spaghetti (egg-free)
- 400 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or pleurotus mushrooms)
- 200 ml tomato sauce (preferably homemade or organic)
- 1 green onion
- 1 green garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredient Details
- Spaghetti: Choose egg-free spaghetti for a vegan option. If you prefer, you can use whole wheat spaghetti for better fiber intake.
- Mushrooms: Use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor. Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a more exotic touch.
- Tomato Sauce: A high-quality tomato sauce will make a difference. If you have time, make it at home from fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
- Green Onion and Garlic: These add an extra layer of flavor and aroma. If you don’t have green onion, you can use white onion, but the taste will be slightly different.
- Spices: Oregano and basil are essential in our dish. If you have fresh herbs, use them for an even more intense flavor.

Preparation Instructions
1. Boiling the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring about 3 liters of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Once ready, drain and transfer to a serving plate.

2. Preparing the Mushroom Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Be careful not to brown them too much, as this could change their flavor.

3. Adding the Mushrooms: Slice the mushrooms thinly and add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reduce in volume and become tender.

4. Preparing the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, then season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Combining the Pasta with the Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the spaghetti and mix well to coat evenly. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving and Suggestions
Mushroom sauce spaghetti can be served warm, but it is just as delicious cold, making it ideal for picnics or quick meals. You can add grated parmesan or feta cheese on top for extra flavor. A side green salad would perfectly complement the meal. You can also pair this dish with a glass of white wine or a cold herbal tea.

Recipe Variations
- Additional Proteins: Add cubes of tofu or chicken breast to the skillet along with the mushrooms for added protein.
- Vegetables: Try adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the sauce for a nutritional boost.
- Spices: Experiment with adding chili peppers for a spicy kick or Asian spices for a unique twist.

Useful Tips
- Make sure the water is well-salted, as this is the only opportunity for the spaghetti to absorb salt.
- Don’t forget to stir the pasta occasionally during boiling to prevent sticking.
- If you have leftover pasta, you can turn it into a pasta salad the next day by adding fresh vegetables and a dressing of olive oil and lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes! Whole grain pasta is a healthy option and will add a different flavor.
2. How can I store the mushroom sauce? You can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
3. Is this recipe vegan? Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, but you can add cheese to make it creamier.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in fiber due to the pasta and mushrooms, which are also a good source of B vitamins and antioxidants. Olive oil adds healthy fatty acids, heart benefits, and a delicious flavor.

In conclusion, mushroom sauce spaghetti is an excellent choice for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. Whether you enjoy it on a quiet evening at home or at a gathering with friends, this dish will bring smiles and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and personalize your recipe to reflect your tastes!