I’ve always been a pasta enthusiast. From indulging in the rich flavors of Seafood lasagna rolls on special occasions to cozying up with a bowl of old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese on a rainy day, pasta has been my go-to comfort food. Today, I’m sharing a personal favorite that’s both delightful and easy to whip up: pasta with mushrooms and peas. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be as hooked as I am!
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
Enough for 4 people
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian, Dairy-Free option available
Table of Contents:
What Makes This Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas Special?
Want a tasty and healthy pasta dish that’s super easy to make? You’re in the right place! Our Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick Fix: First off, if you’re short on time, this dish is a lifesaver. In just 30 minutes, you’ll move from prep to plate, enjoying a delicious meal without the long wait.
- Mushrooms’ Magic: Additionally, mushrooms don’t just fill up space. They add a rich taste, acting as flavor boosters!
- Peas’ Perk: On top of that, peas bring a sweet touch. They not only balance the dish but also add a fresh feel.
- Creamy Comfort: Furthermore, the sauce isn’t just any sauce. It’s smooth and also rich, making it the cozy blanket of food.
- Healthy Choice: Lastly, this dish isn’t just about taste. It’s packed with good stuff, so you get both flavor and health on one plate!
Recipe: Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas
Ingredients List:
Pasta Base:
- Pasta (like Fusilli or Penne): 500 grams
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of the best quality you can find
- Salt, to taste
For the Sauce:
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh cream: 100 ml
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Chili flakes: a pinch (optional)
Veggies & Aromatics:
- Fresh mushrooms (button or shiitake): 200 grams
- Fresh green peas: 150 grams
- Garlic cloves: 3-4, finely chopped
Herbs & Garnish:
- Basil and parsley: a handful, chopped
- Parmesan cheese: for garnish
How To Make Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas?
Preparing Your Ingredients:
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to get everything ready:
- Pasta: Boil in salted water until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes, but check the package for exact timings.
- Mushrooms: Clean them with a damp cloth and slice them.
- Peas: If you’re using fresh peas, get them out of their pods. If they’re frozen, no need to thaw!
Step-by-Step Recipe:
Time needed: 30 minutes
Alright, now that we have all our ingredients, let’s learn how to make our Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas in just 30 minutes! Just follow these easy steps:
- Start with the base:
Firstly, in a large pan, heat the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the chopped garlic. Sauté it until it’s golden but not burnt. This aromatic base is essential for the flavors that follow.
- Add the Mushrooms:
Then, introduce the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Whether you’re using button or shiitake mushrooms, let them cook until they’re soft and have released their juices. These mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste that’s key to our dish.
- Add the Peas:
After the mushrooms, it’s time for the green peas. Toss them in. If they’re fresh, they’ll need about 3-4 minutes. But if you’re working with frozen peas, a couple of minutes will do.
- Cream it up:
Additionally, pour in the fresh cream, stirring continuously. This creamy addition forms the velvety base of our sauce. For that perfect taste, season with salt, pepper, and also a hint of chili flakes.
- Herbs for flavor:
Once the sauce is creamy and well-seasoned, sprinkle in the chopped basil and parsley. These herbs not only add color but also a burst of fresh flavor. Give everything a good mix, ensuring those flavors meld.
- Add the Pasta:
Then, add the boiled pasta to the pan, ensuring it’s well-coated with our delicious mushroom and pea sauce.
- Serve hot:
Finally, dish out the pasta onto plates. Garnish with some grated parmesan cheese and also a sprinkle of herbs for that perfect finish.
Why This Pasta Recipe Rocks: Health Benefits
Mushrooms: The Fungi Powerhouse
Mushrooms aren’t just tasty; they’re packed with nutrients:
- They’re a great source of Vitamin D.
- They boost your immune system.
- They’re low in calories but high in flavor.
Want to dive deeper into the amazing benefits of mushrooms? Check out also this enlightening article from UCLA Health on the 7 health benefits of mushrooms.
Peas: Little Green Gems
Peas might be small, but they’re mighty:
- They’re full of protein.
- They have lots of fiber.
- They’re a great source of vitamins.
Curious to know more? Check out also this comprehensive article from Healthline about the amazing health benefits of green peas.
What to Serve with Your Creamy Pasta Mushrooms?
Wondering what goes well with your pasta dish? Here are some ideas:
- Salad: A simple green salad is always a hit. If you’re looking for a twist, why not try the Rustic Avocado Salad and Caprese Chicken? It’s fresh, flavorful, and also pairs beautifully with pasta.
- Bread: Garlic bread is a classic choice, but even plain toasted bread can be a delightful accompaniment. If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, the Classic Basque Cheesecake is a must-try.
- Drinks: While a glass of white wine like Chardonnay complements the creamy pasta, if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, our Lemon-Infused Water is refreshing and will cleanse your palate.
More Creamy Pasta Recipes:
Hungry for more? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a quick roundup of some creamy pasta delights that are both delicious and easy to make:
Looking for more delicious options? Explore our seafood pasta recipe, Salmon Pesto Pasta, and don’t miss out on our kid-friendly Chicken Tortellini Alfredo. Dive into a wider variety of flavors. Happy cooking!
FAQs on Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas
Absolutely! Just cook them before adding the mushrooms.
There are various mushrooms you can use in pasta, depending on your preference and also the recipe. Common choices include button mushrooms, shiitake, and portobello. In our Pasta with Mushrooms and Peas recipe, we’ve used shiitake mushrooms for their rich, earthy flavor. However, feel free to substitute with other types based on availability and personal taste.
Yes, you can also use milk as a substitute for cream in pasta to achieve a lighter sauce. If you’re, in fact, aiming for a creamy consistency similar to that of cream, consider adding a bit of butter or flour to thicken the milk. Another option is to use a mixture of milk and cream cheese or yogurt. Remember, while milk provides a less rich texture than cream, it can still offer a delightful, creamy taste to your pasta dish.
Yes, it’s vegetarian. But ensure the cheese and cream you use are vegetarian too.
Yes, spaghetti ans also macaroni works well.
