Spinach and Mushroom Pasta

This creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the richness of Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe features a creamy sauce made with half-and-half, sautéed garlic, and tender mushrooms, tossed with your favorite pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Ideal for vegetarians, this pasta can be customized with a variety of mushrooms and cream substitutes. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound Cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• 2¼ cups half-and-half or single cream (outside the US)
• 1 pound of pasta (your favorite type)
• 8 oz spinach
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just under al dente, keeping in mind that it will continue to cook in the sauce.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally, cooking until the mushrooms become golden and tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook until it wilts and combines with the other ingredients.
5. Pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Once the pasta is slightly undercooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well coated.
8. Gradually add half of the reserved pasta water, continuing to toss the pasta until it’s fully coated in sauce and finishes cooking. If the sauce seems too thick, add the remaining pasta water to adjust the consistency.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
10. Serve immediately, ideally with a light salad and crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy spinach and mushroom pasta is the perfect blend of savory and creamy, with the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the richness of Parmesan cheese. The tender spinach adds a touch of freshness, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it a great weeknight dinner option!

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Mushroom Variety: If you don’t have Cremini mushrooms, you can substitute with white button mushrooms or even shiitake mushrooms for a different flavor.
• Cream Options: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use whole milk or a plant-based cream substitute (such as coconut or almond cream).
• Garlic: For a milder flavor, you can reduce the garlic amount or opt for roasted garlic for a sweeter taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: For an even richer flavor, try using Pecorino Romano cheese in place of Parmesan.
• Spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can substitute frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before using.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed immediately, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately in advance. When ready to serve, just combine and heat through.

Can I freeze leftovers?
While the pasta can technically be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. If you choose to freeze, store the pasta and sauce separately, and reheat gently.

What can I serve this pasta with?
Pair this dish with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a side of roasted potatoes.