Introduction to Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach
Welcome to my kitchen, where today I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach! This creamy dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet impressive. Picture this: tender farfalle pasta enveloped in a rich, smoky sauce, with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach dancing together in harmony. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and joy to your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach
This Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is a true gem in my recipe collection. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The creamy sauce, infused with smoky paprika, is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a vegetarian delight that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles all around!
Ingredients for Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Farfalle pasta: This butterfly-shaped pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap it for any pasta you love.
- Sliced mushrooms: I prefer cremini or button mushrooms for their earthy flavor, but any variety will work. Try portobello for a meatier bite!
- Fresh spinach: Tender and vibrant, spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. You can also use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer.
- Heavy cream: This is the secret to that luscious, creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of this golden liquid adds richness and helps sauté the onions to perfection.
- Onion: Thinly sliced onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish. Shallots can be a lovely substitute for a milder flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic is a must for that aromatic kick. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
- Smoked paprika: This spice is the star of the show, giving the dish its signature smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your taste!
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these will enhance all the flavors in your dish.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and brightens up the presentation.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! Making this Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, savory dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add the farfalle pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Remember, you want it to have a little bite! Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t forget to save a cup of that starchy pasta water. It’s liquid gold for our sauce!
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them until they turn golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step adds a sweet depth to our Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach, making it even more delicious!
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms and Garlic
Next, it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them until they’re browned and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. The aroma will be heavenly! Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its magic.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, pour in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and create that luscious, creamy texture we all crave. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up!
Step 5: Incorporate the Spinach
Time to add the fresh spinach! Toss it into the skillet and stir until it wilts down, which should only take a minute or two. The vibrant green color will brighten up your dish and add a nutritious punch. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Now, it’s time for the grand finale! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is well-coated in that creamy sauce. If it seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add more of that reserved pasta water. We want it to be creamy, not clumpy!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to plate up your masterpiece! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra dash of smoked paprika for that pop of color. Serve warm and watch as your family and friends dig in with delight. Enjoy every creamy bite of this Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach!
Tips for Success
- Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; golden onions add depth to the dish.
- Adjust the smoked paprika to your taste; a little goes a long way!
- For a creamier sauce, reserve more pasta water to add as needed.
- Experiment with different mushrooms for varied flavors and textures.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling pasta. A Dutch oven works well too.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing. A regular one will do just fine.
- Colander: For draining pasta. A slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring. A silicone spatula is a great substitute.
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Vegan Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan or feta cheese just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair your Spanish Pasta with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or warm baguette slices to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a pop of color.
FAQs about Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach
Can I make this Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the sauce and toss in the pasta. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Coconut cream works well too, giving a unique flavor to your Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
How can I make this dish spicier?
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The creamy sauce, smoky paprika, and vibrant greens come together to form a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. I hope this recipe brings as much happiness to your table as it has to mine. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this creamy delight!
Print
Spanish Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach: A Creamy Delight!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, savory pasta infused with smoky Spanish paprika, earthy mushrooms, and tender spinach.
Ingredients
- 10 oz farfalle pasta
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and sauté onions until golden.
- Add mushrooms and cook until browned and tender, then stir in garlic and smoked paprika.
- Pour in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add spinach and stir until wilted, then toss in cooked pasta.
- Mix gently to coat pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm with extra paprika sprinkle.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the pasta is egg-free.
- Adjust the amount of smoked paprika to taste for more or less smokiness.
- Can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
