Creamy Herbed Spaghetti with Shiitake Mushrooms
Indulge in a delightful bowl of Creamy Herbed Spaghetti with Shiitake Mushrooms, a perfect blend of rich flavors and fragrant herbs. This quick and easy pasta dish showcases the earthy taste of shiitake mushrooms, which serve as a satisfying meat alternative. Tossed in a heavenly garlic-infused olive oil and finished with creamy milk and Parmigiano-Reggiano, it's a comforting vegetarian meal that is both nourishing and satisfying. Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike, this dish brings the essence of European cuisine right to your table. Serve it hot and watch it disappear!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
spaghetti noodles
1 lb (Cook according to package directions.)
olive oil
1/4 cup (For sautéing.)
butter
2 tablespoons (Add to the skillet.)
red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon (For seasoning.)
garlic cloves
2-3 (Diced.)
onion
1/2 medium (Chopped.)
chopped basil
1 1/2 teaspoons (Can use freeze-dried.)
Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon (For flavoring.)
milk
1/2 cup (Add to the sauce.)
dry white wine
1/2 cup (For deglazing.)
dried shiitake mushrooms
6-9 (Soaked, squeezed, and chopped.)
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1 cup (To sprinkle on top.)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Herbed Spaghetti with Shiitake Mushrooms?
It is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the earthy taste of shiitake mushrooms with a garlic-infused cream sauce and fragrant herbs.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a completely vegetarian meal that uses shiitake mushrooms as a satisfying meat alternative.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 12 main ingredients including spaghetti, mushrooms, herbs, and dairy.
What type of pasta should I use?
The recipe calls for one pound of spaghetti noodles, cooked according to the package directions.
How do I prepare the dried shiitake mushrooms?
The dried mushrooms should be soaked in water until soft, squeezed to remove excess moisture, and then chopped.
What role does the dry white wine play?
The dry white wine is used for deglazing the pan, which helps incorporate flavorful browned bits into the sauce.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, the recipe already includes 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for seasoning, which you can adjust to your preference.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The dish is seasoned with chopped basil and Italian seasoning for a fragrant finish.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The combination of milk, butter, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese creates a heavenly, creamy texture.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as a quick meal, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Can I use fresh basil instead of freeze-dried?
Yes, you can use fresh chopped basil if preferred; just ensure you adjust the quantity to taste.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
One cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is recommended for its rich, salty flavor profile.
What is the origin of this cuisine?
This dish brings the essence of European cuisine to your table.
Do I need to peel the garlic?
Yes, the garlic cloves should be peeled and then diced before being added to the skillet.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of olive oil, primarily used for sautéing the vegetables.
Can I substitute the onion?
While the recipe calls for half a medium onion, you could substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
Is there butter in this recipe?
Yes, two tablespoons of butter are added to the skillet to enhance the richness of the sauce.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served hot, immediately after tossing the pasta with the creamy mushroom sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely, the indulgent flavors and elegant ingredients like shiitakes and white wine make it great for special events.
Can I use fresh shiitake mushrooms instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh mushrooms, though the dried ones offer a more concentrated earthy flavor.
How many garlic cloves are used?
The recipe recommends using 2 to 3 diced garlic cloves.
What is the purpose of the Italian seasoning?
It provides a balanced blend of traditional herbs to enhance the overall flavor profile of the pasta.
Does this recipe contain sodium?
While specific nutritional values aren't listed, sodium is present in the cheese and potentially the pasta water.
Can I use a different type of milk?
The recipe calls for milk; you can use whole milk for richness or a dairy-free alternative if you are adjusting the recipe.
Is the pasta cooked separately?
Yes, the spaghetti noodles should be cooked according to package directions before being added to the sauce.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, ingredients like spinach or peas would complement the shiitake mushrooms well.
How much Italian seasoning should I add?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to flavor the dish.
What should I do after soaking the mushrooms?
After soaking, you must squeeze them to remove water and then chop them into small pieces.
Is there a specific wine recommended?
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best for deglazing the skillet.
Why use Parmigiano-Reggiano?
It is used to sprinkle on top and incorporate into the sauce for a authentic, nutty, and savory finish.