Spaghetti with tomatoes, mushrooms, and basil

Spaghetti with tomatoes, mushrooms, and basil: a simple and delicious recipe

Who can resist a plate of aromatic spaghetti, full of flavor? This recipe for spaghetti with tomatoes, mushrooms, and basil brings a touch of joy and a Mediterranean taste to your table. It is a quick recipe, perfect for family lunches or romantic dinners, that doesn’t require much preparation time but will impress your guests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g whole wheat spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 150 g sliced champignon mushrooms
- 500 g cherry tomatoes
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, crushed
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe history:
Spaghetti with tomatoes and mushrooms is a classic recipe inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh ingredients and natural flavors play a central role. This combination is not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and nutrients. Tomatoes are high in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps protect the body, while mushrooms provide a source of fiber and plant-based protein.

Step by step for a perfect dish:

1. Preparing the water for pasta:
Start by filling a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. The salt will not only flavor the pasta but also help maintain its color.

2. Boiling the spaghetti:
Once the water reaches a boiling point, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8 and 10 minutes for whole wheat spaghetti). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the tomatoes:
Wash the cherry tomatoes under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot of hot water for about a minute, until the skin starts to crack. Remove them to a strainer and let them cool slightly. This technique will make the skins peel off easily, but if you prefer, you can also use them whole.

4. Sautéing the mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become golden and tender. Olive oil not only enhances the flavor but is also a good source of healthy fats.

5. Adding the flavors:
Once the mushrooms are ready, add the crushed garlic cloves and mix well. The garlic will bring an intense aroma and a hint of flavor. After about 1 minute, add the tomato juice and cherry tomatoes, along with a teaspoon of dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the flavors combine.

6. Finalizing the dish:
When the spaghetti is ready, drain it well and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Then, add the mushroom and tomato sauce over the pasta, mixing well to coat evenly.

7. Serving:
Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness and color. If desired, you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for an even richer flavor.

Useful tips:
- You can add other vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for an even more colorful and nutritious meal.
- If you like more intense flavors, you can add a few chili flakes to the sauce for a little spicy kick.
- Use fresh basil for a more vibrant taste; it will add a note of freshness to your dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! You can replace whole wheat spaghetti with rice or quinoa pasta.
- What other sauces can I try? A combination of pesto with nuts or a creamy white sauce would go perfectly with this recipe.
- How can I make the recipe more filling? Add some cubes of chicken or fried tofu for an extra protein boost.

Recommended pairings:
This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. Additionally, an arugula salad with Parmesan and lemon would wonderfully complement the meal.

Nutrition: A serving of spaghetti with tomatoes, mushrooms, and basil contains approximately 350 calories, making it a balanced option, rich in fiber and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables.

Now that you have this delicious recipe, all that’s left is to start cooking. Let yourself be carried away by Mediterranean flavors and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!