Pasta with Mushrooms: A Taste of Autumn in Every Bite
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty meal that captures the essence of autumn. One of my all-time favorites is a simple yet delicious pasta dish filled with the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but brings the cozy warmth of fall right to your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) of your favorite pasta (such as fettuccine or tagliatelle)
- 300g (10 oz) of mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 50g (1.8 oz) of unsalted butter
- 120ml (1/2 cup) of heavy cream
- 50g (1.8 oz) of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and tender.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the butter until melted, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the mushroom sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese.
This pasta dish is perfect for a cozy dinner with family or a romantic date night at home. The combination of tender mushrooms and creamy sauce, enriched with the nutty flavor of Parmesan, will make it a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy this taste of autumn!