Hello, fellow food aficionados and lovers of all things indulgent! Today, we're delving into the world of pasta dishes, where comfort meets elegance, with a recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds - Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta. This dish marries the earthy goodness of mushrooms, the vibrant freshness of spinach, and the rich creaminess of Parmesan sauce in a symphony of flavors. Inspired by a delightful recipe from Lemon Blossoms, I'm excited to guide you through creating this pasta masterpiece that's perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces of fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (use your choice of variety)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional but delightful)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it's al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Seasoning
- Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Toss it gently with the mushrooms and garlic until it wilts and becomes vibrant green.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese melts into a luscious sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg (if using).
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Veggies, and Sauce
- Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
- Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the pasta.
- Toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well coated with the delectable sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Plate your Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta and garnish it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Extra Flair:
- Feel free to customize your pasta with additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon.
- Use a mix of your favorite mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster, to enhance the depth of flavor.
There you have it, dear readers! Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta, is a culinary marvel that brings together the best of both comfort and elegance. Whether you're enjoying it as a weeknight indulgence or presenting it as a gourmet masterpiece, this recipe is sure to impress.
So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to savor every creamy, cheesy, and earthy bite of this delightful pasta dish. Buon appetito! 🍝🧀🌿