Get Ready for a Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta!
Hey there, pasta lovers! Are you ready to whip up a delightful, creamy dish that ticks all the boxes for a healthy weeknight dinner? Let’s indulge in this easy Spinach Mushroom Pasta recipe that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. I love how quickly it comes together, and it’s the perfect meal to share with friends or family after a busy day. Let’s dive in!
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
Did you know that spinach and mushrooms are not just tasty, but also pack a nutritional punch? Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus it contains iron and calcium. When it’s combined with mushrooms, which are great for boosting your immune system and providing antioxidants, you’ve got a power-packed meal! The heavy cream and Parmesan add a lovely creaminess, but you can adjust the ingredients to keep things light and still indulge in your pasta cravings.
Adaptable Variations
- Going Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a delicious non-dairy version!
- Pasta Choices: Don’t have penne? No problem! You can use any pasta shape you love, whether it’s fusilli, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.
- Add Protein: Boost your meal with shredded chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein. They’ll complement the creaminess beautifully!
Your Easy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a lighter alternative like half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
This recipe serves about 2 to 3 people as a main dish, depending on portion sizes.
Cooking Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Then, toss in the penne pasta and cook it al dente according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside, but be sure to keep some of that pasta water!
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in those sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re nice, golden brown and tender.
- Now, it’s garlic time! Toss in the minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute until it’s all fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
- In goes the spinach—stir it in and cook until it just wilts, which will only take about 2-3 minutes. I love watching it shrink down!
- Reduce your heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Mix everything together really well and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Yum!
- Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese melts into a creamy goodness, and if it’s too thick, feel free to add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up!
- Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really make it your own!
- Now, add your cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure every piece is coated in that dreamy creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with more grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’d like. Sit back and enjoy your creation—it’s a quick and satisfying dinner!
Practical Tips for Success
- To keep things fresh, enjoy your pasta right after cooking. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Warming the leftovers is easy! Just add a little splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore that creamy texture.
- If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving!
Equipment Needed
Before you jump in, gather up these handy tools that will make your cooking experience smooth:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A colander for draining
- A large skillet for sautéing
- A wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- A measuring cup for liquids
- A cutting board and knife for chopping
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
- Can I skip the cream for a lighter dish? Yes! You can substitute with vegetable or chicken broth for a lighter sauce.
- What if I don’t have penne pasta? Any pasta shape will work just fine. Use what you have on hand.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes! This pasta can be made in advance and stored for quick reheating throughout the week.
- How can I add spice to this recipe? A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you like some heat!
Wrap-Up
So, there you have it—a delicious, creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta that I hope you’ll love as much as I do! If you decide to make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more fun recipes that you can easily cook at home. Happy cooking!
