While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften and release their moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume.
Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Add the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly for 4-5 minutes.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Once the sauce is creamy and thickened, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until evenly coated, adding a little reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed. Continue to toss until everything is well mixed.
Serve:
Serve the creamy spinach and mushroom spaghetti in bowls. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy spinach and mushroom spaghetti is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A light and refreshing green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich pasta perfectly.
Storage:
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick.
Make It Vegan:
To make this dish vegan, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute. Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a fully plant-based meal.
Extra Veggies:
Feel free to add extra vegetables to the dish, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes, for added flavor and texture.
Variants:
Add Protein:
For a heartier meal, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, crispy tofu, or sautéed shrimp to the dish. Simply cook the protein of your choice separately and toss it into the pasta before serving.
Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna:
Transform this creamy spinach and mushroom spaghetti into a lasagna by layering the mushroom-spinach sauce between sheets of lasagna noodles, adding ricotta or mozzarella, and baking until golden and bubbly.
Spicy Spinach and Mushroom Spaghetti:
If you prefer a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the sauce as it simmers for a spicy kick.
Lighter Version:
For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream substitute. This will give you a creamy texture without as many calories.
FAQ:
Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach works best in this recipe, you can use dried spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Rehydrate it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! This creamy spinach and mushroom sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes, such as penne, fettuccine, or fusilli. Choose your favorite!
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
While you can freeze the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce, the texture of the pasta may not hold up well after freezing and reheating. If you want to freeze it, it’s best to store the sauce separately and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
Fresh mushrooms provide the best flavor and texture for this dish. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use canned mushrooms. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before cooking to remove excess liquid.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can allow it to simmer longer or mix in a small cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Conclusion: This creamy spinach and mushroom spaghetti is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings together earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this pasta dish is sure to impress. With its versatility and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll be able to make it again and again with different variations, ensuring you never get tired of this satisfying recipe. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this dish, and let it become a favorite in your pasta repertoire!
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