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Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Spinach Mushroom Pasta is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that combines tender pasta with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this nourishing dish offers versatility and comfort without guilt, suitable for all skill levels and adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

Vegetables

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Alternatives

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based alternative (optional)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Wilt the Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. This keeps the spinach bright and fresh while combining its flavor with the mushrooms.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the cream or your alternative and stir well. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Combine and Serve: Mix in the cooked pasta, tossing everything together so each strand is coated in the luscious sauce. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan and serve immediately for the most comforting experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients: fresh spinach and mushrooms elevate the dish’s flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcook the spinach: wilting it just right keeps its vibrant color and gentle crunch.
  • Reserve pasta water: starchy water helps bind and thicken the sauce without extra fat.
  • Slice mushrooms evenly: ensures uniform cooking and better mouthfeel.
  • Adjust creaminess to taste: use more or less cream based on preference for a lighter or richer sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spinach Mushroom Pasta, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, healthy meal, creamy pasta, mushroom recipe, spinach recipe, weeknight dinner