Tagliatelle with mushrooms and white sauce

Pasta with Mushrooms and White Sauce – A Delicious and Creamy Recipe

The culinary journey we will embark on together will take you into a world of delicate flavors and creamy textures. This recipe for pasta with mushrooms and white sauce is not only simple but absolutely delicious. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a family meal, this recipe is sure to delight you. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 2 (or 1 generous serving)

Necessary ingredients:

For pasta:
- 50 g tagliatelle pasta (or any other preferred type)
- 500 ml water for boiling
- A pinch of salt

For mushrooms:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 80 g sliced canned mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms, if you prefer)
- 250 ml water
- Salt, to taste

For the Bechamel sauce:
- 20 g butter
- 20 g flour
- 200 ml warm milk
- Salt, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg

Additionally:
- A sprig of fresh dill, chopped (for decoration)

Recipe History:
Pasta recipes have a long-standing tradition, consumed for centuries across various cultures. Pasta itself is a staple food, and creamy sauces like béchamel have been embraced by numerous cuisines, turning simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. This recipe for pasta with mushrooms and white sauce is a modern reinterpretation of a classic, easy to make and full of flavor.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the pasta:
Start by adding 500 ml of water and a pinch of salt to a large pot. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach a boiling point. When the water starts to boil, add the tagliatelle pasta. Cook them according to the time indicated on the package (usually between 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once ready, remove from heat and cover the pot with a lid to keep them warm.

2. Cooking the mushrooms:
In a separate saucepan, add the olive oil along with the mushrooms and 250 ml of water. You can use canned mushrooms or, for a fresher taste, slice fresh champignon or oyster mushrooms. Add a little salt and let the mushrooms simmer over medium heat until the water reduces almost completely, and the mushrooms become tender and flavorful (about 10-12 minutes).

3. Preparing the Bechamel sauce:
In a small pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the flour and quickly whisk to form a roux. Cook the roux for one minute, stirring constantly. Then, gradually add the warm milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and begins to thicken (about 5 minutes). Add salt and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.

4. Combining the ingredients:
Once the Bechamel sauce is ready, pour it over the mushrooms and mix well to combine the flavors. Let it simmer for a few minutes so that the sauce absorbs the mushroom flavor.

5. Assembling the dish:
Rinse the pasta with warm water and drain it in a colander. Place it on a generous serving platter, then pour the mushroom sauce over the top. Sprinkle with freshly chopped dill for a touch of freshness and flavor.

Serving and Suggestions:
This recipe for pasta with mushrooms and white sauce is served hot, straight from the platter. You can also add grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. It is ideal to be accompanied by a simple green salad or a crisp baguette to complete the meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This serving of pasta with mushrooms and white sauce offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal. The calories vary depending on the type of pasta and the amount of sauce, but one serving has approximately 450-500 calories. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a healthy diet.

Tips and Variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to make the dish even more nutritious.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add chopped garlic to the Bechamel sauce or spices like smoked paprika.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, to change the texture of the main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned mushrooms?
Yes, fresh mushrooms provide a more intense flavor and pleasant texture.

2. How can I make the Bechamel sauce lighter?
If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of flour and add more milk.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and mushrooms in advance, and cook the pasta fresh before serving.

So, don't hesitate any longer! Bring a little kitchen magic to your table with this recipe for pasta with mushrooms and white sauce. Enjoy your meal!