Baked mushrooms

Oven-Baked Mushrooms with Garlic and Peas - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes the best thing you can do is return to the simple essences of cooking. The recipe for oven-baked mushrooms with garlic and a side of peas is a perfect choice for a quick yet incredibly tasty meal. This dish is not only easy to make but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of family meals where fresh ingredients and seasonal flavors are the order of the day.

Ingredients:

- 500 g fresh mushrooms (champignon, pleurotus, or any preferred type)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- salt to taste
- freshly ground pepper to taste
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 100 ml water (approximately)

For the side:
- 350 g peas (a can or frozen peas)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- fresh dill, roughly chopped

The Story of the Recipe

Mushrooms are among the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. Used for centuries in various cultures, they add not only flavor but also a pleasant texture and rich nutritional content. Combining them with garlic, another staple ingredient, creates an unforgettable flavor profile. And when we add peas, we get a colorful and vibrant side that perfectly complements this dish.

Preparing the Mushrooms

1. Cleaning the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp cloth or a special mushroom brush. Avoid washing them under running water as they can absorb moisture and become mushy.

2. Preparing the mushrooms: Place the mushrooms in a large baking dish. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them and add the 3 tablespoons of oil. Mix well to combine the flavors.

3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees Celsius. Place the dish with mushrooms in the oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes. You will know they are ready when they turn golden and juicy.

Preparing the Garlic Sauce

In the last 5 minutes of baking, it’s time to prepare the garlic sauce.

1. Crush the garlic: Use a garlic press or a knife to finely chop the garlic cloves.

2. Mix with mushroom juice: After the mushrooms have been in the oven for 25 minutes, take the dish out and scoop some of the juice released by the mushrooms with a spoon. Mix this juice with the crushed garlic.

3. Add the sauce: Pour the garlic mixture over the mushrooms and let them bake for another 5 minutes. The flavors will combine and create a delicious sauce.

Preparing the Pea Side

1. Heat the oil: In a pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat well over medium heat.

2. Add the peas: If using canned peas, drain them well and rinse under cold water. Add the peas to the pan and stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until they are warm and slightly crunchy.

3. Finishing the side: Before turning off the heat, add the freshly chopped dill for an extra burst of flavor and a fresh look.

Serving

Once the mushrooms are ready and the peas are prepared, it’s time to assemble the plate. You can serve the mushrooms on a bed of peas, drizzling the garlic sauce on top for an appetizing appearance. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a side with a juicy steak.

Useful Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add variety. You can also try adding other herbs like thyme or basil to customize the recipe.
- Suitable drinks: Offer a dry white wine or fresh lemonade to complement the flavors of the mushrooms and garlic.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D, while peas contain plant proteins and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen mushrooms? Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but make sure to let them thaw and drain before using.
- How can I adapt the recipe for vegans? This recipe is already vegan, but ensure that the olive oil and other ingredients are certified vegan.
- Can I replace peas with another vegetable? Absolutely! Broccoli or green beans are excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

The recipe for oven-baked mushrooms with garlic and peas is not only simple but also full of flavor, ideal for any occasion. I encourage you to try it and share the result with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Enjoy your meal!