Tricolor spaghetti with fried mushrooms

Tricolor spaghetti with fried mushrooms - An explosion of flavors and colors on your plate

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a plate of delicious spaghetti, full of flavor and vibrant colors? These tricolor spaghetti with fried mushrooms are not only a feast for the eyes but also an unforgettable culinary experience. This dish brings together textures and flavors that blend perfectly, turning an ordinary meal into a special occasion.

A brief story about the recipe
The origins of pasta are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, but spaghetti, with its long and thin shape, has become iconic. The addition of fried mushrooms and vegetables makes this recipe not only tasty but also healthy. Mushrooms are rich in nutrients, and their flavors intensify through frying, providing a savory taste.

Ingredients
- 400 g tricolor durum wheat spaghetti
- 8 large mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 400 g diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 roasted red bell pepper
- 1/2 medium onion
- 6-7 cloves of garlic
- Oregano (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Smoked hot paprika (optional)
- Parmigiano Reggiano (or parmesan) for serving
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil

Cooking techniques
1. Preparing the mushrooms
First, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a pinch of sea salt to the bottom of the pan, which will help release the water from the mushrooms and enhance their flavor. Wash and dry the mushrooms well, then place them in the pan with the stem side down. Let them fry on low heat until they develop a golden and delicious crust.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Once the mushrooms are fried, slice them thinly. Crush the garlic cloves, finely chop the roasted bell pepper, and dice the onion. These ingredients will add depth and complexity to the sauce.

3. Cooking the sauce
In the same skillet, add the olive oil. When hot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, being careful not to burn them. Add the sliced mushrooms, seasoning with salt, pepper, smoked hot paprika, and oregano. After a few minutes, add the diced tomatoes and roasted bell pepper. Mix everything and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Boiling the pasta
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil, adding salt and a splash of olive oil. Cook the tricolor spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

5. Assembling
On warm plates, add the spaghetti, then generously pour the mushroom sauce over them. Grate parmesan on top for extra flavor and serve immediately.

Serving suggestions
To turn this meal into an unforgettable experience, you can add a fresh green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing. A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with the flavors of this dish. Additionally, a crispy baguette is ideal for accompanying this meal.

Nutritional benefits
These tricolor spaghetti are an excellent choice due to the durum wheat content, which provides protein and fiber. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins B and D, while tomatoes provide a significant amount of lycopene, a beneficial antioxidant for health.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of pasta?
Of course! You can experiment with whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.

- How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more hot paprika or even finely chopped fresh chili for an extra kick.

- Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, eggplant, or spinach can be added to the sauce to vary the texture and flavor.

Recipe variations
For a vegetarian option, you can add fried tofu instead of mushrooms. You can also transform the recipe into a vegan dish by omitting the parmesan and using egg-free pasta.

In conclusion, these tricolor spaghetti with fried mushrooms are not only a simple and quick recipe but also an opportunity to explore new flavors and combinations. Whether you're preparing them for a family dinner or a special occasion, they are sure to impress. So embrace this recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!