Description
This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is a rich, comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with fresh, nutritious ingredients. With tender mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a velvety crème fraîche sauce coating your favorite pasta, it’s a dish that’s easy to prepare but full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night, this recipe will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small red onion, finely minced
- 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
- 120 g (4 oz) organic spinach leaves
- 150 g (5 oz) white or chestnut mushrooms, halved
- 350 g (12 oz) pasta of your choice
- 100 g (3.5 oz) crème fraîche (Yeo Valley preferred)
- 2 tablespoons mild or mature cheddar, finely grated
- Sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and set the pasta aside.
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the lightly crushed garlic clove and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
-
Cook the Mushrooms:
- Add the halved mushrooms to the skillet.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
-
Wilt the Spinach:
- Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until they wilt and combine with the mushrooms.
-
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the crème fraîche.
- Let it warm through and coat the vegetables, creating a creamy sauce.
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheddar cheese if desired.
Notes
- Cheese Swap: You can substitute Parmesan or Gruyère for the cheddar for a different flavor.
- Protein Option: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
- Pasta Type: While spaghetti, linguine, or penne work best, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired