Pasta with delicious mushrooms

Delicious Mushroom Pasta

If you're looking for a pasta recipe that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor, you've come to the right place. This mushroom pasta recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The rich taste of mushrooms, paired with creamy sour cream, makes this dish a perfect choice for a family dinner or a quick lunch. Let's see how we can prepare it together!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g pasta (preferably Italian penne, but you can use other types as well)
- 300 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or any other mushrooms you prefer)
- 200 ml cooking cream (or heavy cream if you prefer a richer texture)
- 30 g butter (or 2 tablespoons olive oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Before you begin, it's important to choose fresh mushrooms for an intense and aromatic flavor. Champignon mushrooms are very popular due to their texture, but you can also experiment with other types, such as porcini or portobello, to add a personal touch to the recipe.

Step 1: Boil the pasta
In a large pot, add water and a tablespoon of salt and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and reserve a cup of the cooking water.

Step 2: Prepare the mushrooms
Meanwhile, wash the mushrooms under cold running water and cut them into cubes about 1 - 1.5 cm. These will be the delicious base of our sauce. The secret is to let them sit in water for a few minutes before cooking to help release their flavorful juices.

Step 3: Sauté the mushrooms
In a large skillet, add the butter or olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the butter has melted or the oil is hot, add the chopped mushrooms. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. At this point, add a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Your mission here is to achieve a slightly golden texture and release the aromas.

Step 4: Add the cream
After the mushrooms have sautéed, add the cooking cream. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. If you find the sauce too watery, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken. Here you can adjust the amount of cream to your liking; more cream means a creamier sauce.

Step 5: Combine with the pasta
Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, carefully mixing to coat it evenly with the mushroom sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Try to use a "tossing" mixing technique, which helps combine the ingredients without crushing them. It's a small technique that can make a big difference!

Step 6: Taste and adjust
Before serving, taste the mixture and adjust with salt or pepper as needed. This final step is essential, as each ingredient has its own character, and it's important to ensure everything is perfectly balanced.

Step 7: Serve with style
Serve the pasta hot, perhaps garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan on top for an extra flavor boost. This mushroom pasta pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or mineral water with lemon to balance the creaminess of the sauce.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can also add a few fresh spinach leaves during cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, each bringing a distinct flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the mushrooms to keep their crunchy texture.
- This recipe is perfect for adding protein; you can add diced chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional values (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, offering higher fiber and nutrient content.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
Chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots are delicious options that fit perfectly in this recipe.

3. Can I freeze this pasta?
While cooked pasta doesn't freeze well, you can freeze the mushroom sauce separately and reheat it later.

So, enjoy this delicious mushroom pasta that combines quick preparation with rich and satisfying flavor. I may not have managed to take a picture, but I promise every bite will be a true delight! Enjoy your meal!