Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, where golden-brown mushrooms and caramelized onions create a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Italy. This Mushroom and Onion Spaghetti is not just a meal – it's a culinary experience that combines simplicity with extraordinary taste, proving that sometimes the most delicious dishes are the easiest to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 250g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Introduce sliced mushrooms to the skillet, increasing heat to medium-high. Sauté mushrooms until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 6-7 minutes.
- Season the mushroom and onion mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Once pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with mushrooms and onions. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water if needed to help create a light sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Use fresh, firm mushrooms like cremini or button mushrooms for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't Rush the Sauté: Allow mushrooms and onions to caramelize slowly. This develops a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps create a silky sauce and helps the ingredients stick together.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and a luxurious finish.
- Timing is Key: Cook mushrooms on medium-high heat to achieve that perfect golden-brown color without burning.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing mushrooms or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra depth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
