Mushroom Pappardelle with Lemon and Garlic

Short Description

Mushroom Pappardelle with Lemon and Garlic is a simple yet elegant pasta dish that highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms, the freshness of lemon, and the aromatic depth of garlic. This creamy and satisfying meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing restaurant-quality flavor to your table in just under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory Flavors: The combination of sautéed mushrooms and garlic creates a deeply satisfying umami taste.
• Bright and Fresh: Lemon zest and juice add a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Simple Yet Elegant: This dish is easy to prepare but has a sophisticated and gourmet appeal.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Can be adapted to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.
• Perfect Comfort Food: Creamy, garlicky, and full of texture, this pasta dish is the ultimate cozy meal.

Ingredients

pappardelle pasta
mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button)
garlic cloves
lemon zest
lemon juice
butter
olive oil
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)
fresh parsley

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
4. Incorporate the Lemon: Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. This enhances the dish with a fresh, citrusy brightness.
5. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
7. Season and Finish: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together until well combined.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan before serving hot.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace butter with vegan butter, heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
• Spicier Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Herbal Twist: Incorporate fresh thyme or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in mascarpone or ricotta for an ultra-luxurious texture.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While pappardelle works beautifully, you can use fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti.

What mushrooms work best for this recipe?

Cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms all work well. You can also mix different types for a more complex flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or add a touch more Parmesan cheese to help thicken it.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If meal prepping, store the sauce and pasta separately for better texture upon reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers would complement the flavors well.

What can I serve with Mushroom Pappardelle?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pappardelle.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook it over low heat for just a minute and stir constantly to avoid burning.

Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Mushroom Pappardelle with Lemon and Garlic is a beautifully balanced dish that brings together the earthy richness of mushrooms, the zesty brightness of lemon, and the comforting depth of garlic. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or an elegant dish for entertaining, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!

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