Vegetarian pasta with mushrooms and seeds

Vegetarian Pasta with Mushrooms and Seeds

Who can resist a bowl of delicious pasta? This vegetarian pasta recipe with mushrooms and seeds is not only tasty but also extremely versatile, easily adapting to the ingredients you have on hand. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for a quick and nourishing dinner, perfect for any occasion. Let's discover together how to prepare this pasta in a simple and flavorful way.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Boiling time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g spaghetti
- 500 g mushrooms (you can use Champignon or any other preferred variety)
- 3 green or dry onions, of suitable size
- 2 large tomatoes
- 100 ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1-2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon flax seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning (e.g., Vito)
- 2-3 tablespoons water
- Spices to taste (optional: oregano, sage, rosemary)

Before we start, let’s dive a little into the history of pasta. Pasta is a fundamental ingredient in many culinary cultures, symbolizing diversity and adaptability. Regardless of the shape or sauce chosen, pasta can transform an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. With this recipe, we will add a touch of freshness and health, encouraging the use of fresh ingredients and nutritious seeds.

Step 1: Boil the pasta

Start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to flavor the pasta. Boil until al dente – meaning they should have a firm texture but be cooked. Once boiled, drain and cool under cold running water. This step is essential as it stops the cooking process and helps maintain the perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

Peel the onion and chop it into small cubes, and cut the mushrooms into larger pieces. Champignon mushrooms are an excellent choice due to their delicate flavor, but you can experiment with various varieties, such as shiitake or portobello, to add extra flavor. Heat a tablespoon or two of oil in a large skillet and add the onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent, then add the mushrooms and 2-3 tablespoons of water. This trick helps release the flavors from the mushrooms and flavors the oil. Cook everything for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms become tender and the water has evaporated.

Step 3: Prepare the sauce

After the mushrooms are cooked, add the chopped tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes bring a note of acidity and sweetness, perfect for balancing the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and vegetable seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat, stirring gently, until it thickens. This is the ideal time to add your favorite spices – oregano, sage, or rosemary are excellent choices that will bring extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine the pasta with the sauce

Once the sauce is ready, add the boiled pasta to the skillet and mix well to coat them evenly with the sauce. Top the pasta with a tablespoon of flax seeds and sprinkle sesame seeds to taste. Flax seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 and fiber, while sesame seeds add a crunchy note and a nutty flavor.

Serving and suggestions

Serve the pasta warm, drizzled with a little olive oil and, if desired, with grated parmesan or nutritional yeast for an umami boost. This vegetarian pasta with mushrooms and seeds pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a dry white wine that will highlight the dish's flavors.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is an excellent option to add more fiber and nutrients.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the recipe?
You can experiment with zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to add more colors and vitamins.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, but you can add cheese if you wish.

4. How can I store leftover pasta?
Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. When reheating, add a little water or oil to prevent drying out.

Nutritional benefits:

- Pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy.
- Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, which help maintain a healthy nervous system.
- Flax and sesame seeds are rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, supporting cardiovascular health.

Possible variations:

- You can add tofu or tempeh to make the recipe heartier and richer in protein.
- Replace fresh tomatoes with canned tomato sauce for a quick version.
- Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to bring extra freshness.

This vegetarian pasta recipe with mushrooms and seeds is just the beginning of a culinary journey full of flavors and textures. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or for a quick meal after a long workday, it is guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So embrace this recipe and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!