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Garlic Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

This dish features sautéed mushrooms and wilted spinach tossed with al dente pasta, creating a bright, savory sauce with earthy and green notes. The key cooking methods include sautéing and quick wilted greens, resulting in a dish with a tender yet slightly chewy texture and vibrant appearance. Finished with lemon and Parmesan, it’s a comforting yet fresh meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 200 grams pasta (spaghetti or linguine) aim for al dente
  • 250 grams mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake) sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 150 grams fresh spinach washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality extra virgin
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 50 grams Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

  • Large sauté pan
  • Slotted spoon
  • Tongs
  • Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their earthy aroma and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and slightly translucent. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too quickly.
  4. Gradually add the fresh spinach in batches, covering the pan briefly to help it wilt. Stir until the spinach is vibrant green and wilted but still tender, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the mushroom and spinach mixture. Use tongs to toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. If the mixture looks dry, splash in a little reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce coats the pasta smoothly.
  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Toss again to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add salt or pepper as desired.
  7. Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a twist of lemon if desired. Enjoy the bright, earthy flavors of this quick and comforting pasta.