Burnt Garlic Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe
Delight in a comforting bowl of Burnt Garlic Pasta with Mushrooms, a harmonious blend of al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy cauliflower sauce, aromatic garlic, and earthy mushrooms. This vegetarian dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a healthy option, bringing together whole wheat pasta, a variety of vegetables, and fragrant herbs to create a satisfying meal perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Whole Wheat Pasta | 250 grams |
Salt | To taste |
Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 teaspoon |
Water | 4-5 cups |
Onion | 1, finely chopped |
Garlic | 3 cloves, grated |
Button Mushrooms | 3, chopped |
Cauliflower (Gobi) | 70 grams, florets |
Milk | 1 cup |
Black Pepper Powder | 1/4 tablespoon |
Dried Oregano | 2 tablespoons |
Parmesan Cheese | 1 tablespoon |
Butter | 1 tablespoon |
Reserved Pasta Water | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | Approx. 350 |
Protein | Approx. 12g |
Carbohydrates | Approx. 55g |
Fat | Approx. 10g |
Fiber | Approx. 5g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 3
Instructions
To embark on your culinary adventure with Burnt Garlic Pasta with Mushrooms, begin by boiling water in a large pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, introduce the whole wheat pasta and cook it until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. After the pasta is cooked to perfection, carefully drain it, then immediately rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. This simple step ensures that your pasta retains its delightful texture and does not stick together. Once drained, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the pasta to keep it separate and set it aside.
Now, let’s move on to crafting the luscious sauce that will coat our pasta. In a blender, combine the cauliflower florets, a pinch of salt, black pepper powder, milk, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. This cauliflower sauce not only adds creaminess but also enhances the nutritional value of the dish.
In a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over a low flame. Once hot, add the grated garlic and sauté gently, stirring occasionally, until it turns a lovely golden brown—this is where the dish gets its signature burnt garlic flavor. Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for a few minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Following this, add the chopped button mushrooms, cover the skillet, and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes, letting them soften and release their natural juices.
Once the mushrooms are tender, stir in half a cup of the reserved pasta water and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will help create a beautiful sauce that clings to the pasta. Be mindful not to overcook the vegetables, as they will continue to cook once combined with the pasta.
Now, it’s time to marry the flavors. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, and then pour in the creamy cauliflower sauce. Sprinkle in some salt and additional black pepper to taste, allowing everything to meld together over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes.
To elevate the dish further, sprinkle dried oregano and freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pasta, giving it an irresistible savory touch. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring gently to incorporate all the flavors. If at any point the sauce appears too thick, simply add a bit more reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Finally, serve the Burnt Garlic Pasta with Mushrooms warm, and consider pairing it with a refreshing Smoked Tofu and Grilled Vegetable Salad for a well-rounded meal that delights the senses and nourishes the body. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or any occasion where you wish to impress family and friends with your culinary prowess while keeping it deliciously simple and wholesome.