This pasta with spinach, mushrooms, and brown butter recipe is a combination of simple ingredients that come together to make a dish that's satisfyingly flavorful. The earthy depth of the mushrooms complements the fresh, leafy spinach, while the brown butter adds a nutty richness that elevates the dish.
Photos of Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter Recipe
Some ingredients like small shaped pasta may not be commonly found in every pantry. Any small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or farfalle can work well in this recipe. Also, using fresh baby spinach leaves and lemon zest is recommended for a bright, fresh flavor. If you're going to the supermarket, keep an eye out for these.
Ingredients for Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter
Unsalted butter: This is used to make the brown butter. It brings a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
Olive oil: It's used to sauté the mushrooms. Olive oil provides a depth of flavor.
Mushrooms: They add earthy flavor and a meaty texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a little heat.
Small shaped pasta: The base of the dish, it soaks up the flavors wonderfully.
Baby spinach leaves: Adds fresh, leafy flavor and a nice contrasting color.
Lemon juice and zest: They add brightness and freshness to the dish.
Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
Fresh parsley: Brings a touch of freshness and color to the final dish.
One reader, Irina Sylvester says:
This pasta recipe is a game-changer! The combination of spinach, mushrooms, and brown butter creates a rich and flavorful dish that's both comforting and elegant. The nutty aroma of the brown butter adds a delightful touch. It's a must-try for any pasta lover!
Essential Techniques for Making This Pasta Recipe
How to brown butter: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter solids turn light brown and the butter smells nutty. Remove the pan from the heat immediately and set aside.
How to cook mushrooms: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the mushrooms, and cook, stirring often, until they release their juices and turn golden brown.
How to wilt spinach: Add half of the spinach and ¼ cup of pasta water to the skillet with the pasta and cook until the spinach begins to wilt. Then add the remaining spinach and stir until all the spinach wilts.
How to adjust pasta consistency: If the pasta seems dry, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of the remaining pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
How to serve: Spoon the pasta into shallow bowls and sprinkle the parsley and parmesan on top, then grind a little fresh black pepper over each bowl.
How To Make Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter
You don’t need a lot of ingredients to create a winning meal. This pasta with spinach and mushrooms from the sweet-savory brown butter.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspunsalted butter
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1½lbsmushrooms,sliced
- ¼tspsalt
- ⅛tspblack pepper
- ½lbsmall shaped pasta,(such as orecchiette, bowties, campanelle, or shells)
- 5ozbaby spinach leaves,(4 to 5 large handfuls)
- 2tbsplemon juice
- 1zest of lemon,finely grated
- ½cupparmesan,freshly grated, for garnish
- ¼cupfresh parsley,chopped, for garnish
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente. Scoop out 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.
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In a small stainless steel or other light-colored skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Cook, stirring constantly, until the butter solids on the bottom turn light brown and the butter smells nutty. Immediately remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the mushrooms, and cook, stirring often, for 10 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their juices and turn golden brown. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
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Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the mushrooms and toss over medium-high heat. Stir in half the spinach and ¼ cup of the pasta water into the pasta and cook until the spinach begins to wilt.
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Add the remaining spinach, and stir until all the spinach wilts. If the pasta seems dry, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of the remaining pasta cooking water.
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Stir in the browned butter, lemon juice and lemon zest and toss. Taste and add more salt and pepper, if desired.
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Spoon the pasta into shallow bowls and sprinkle the parsley and Parmesan on top.
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Grind a little fresh black pepper over each bowl.
Nutrition
- Calories: 297.89kcal
- Fat: 12.65g
- Saturated Fat: 5.27g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.29g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.14g
- Carbohydrates: 34.63g
- Fiber: 3.25g
- Sugar: 3.85g
- Protein: 13.78g
- Cholesterol: 18.60mg
- Sodium: 296.28mg
- Calcium: 189.23mg
- Potassium: 622.55mg
- Iron: 2.05mg
- Vitamin A: 179.47µg
- Vitamin C: 19.44mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting the Brown Butter Sauce
When browning your butter, keep a close eye on it as it can quickly go from browned to burnt. The key is to remove it from the heat as soon as it turns a light brown color and gives off a nutty aroma. Using a light-colored skillet can help you better judge the color change. Also, stirring constantly ensures even browning and prevents the butter from burning. This process, known as making beurre noisette, imparts a rich, nutty flavor to your dishes.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
Prep ahead: Chop the mushrooms and spinach in advance to cut down on prep time when you're ready to cook.
One-pot wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the mushrooms and spinach while the pasta is boiling to save time on cleaning up.
Substitute Ingredients For Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and still provide a rich flavor to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish while adding a fresh and light element.
salt - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, can add a savory umami flavor to the dish while providing the necessary saltiness.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a milder alternative to black pepper, providing a subtle heat and flavor to the dish.
small shaped pasta - Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash can be roasted and used as a low-carb alternative to pasta, adding a unique texture to the dish.
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a heartier alternative to spinach, adding a robust texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide a tangy acidity similar to lemon juice, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
zest of lemon - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can add a citrusy aroma and flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino: Pecorino cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can add a fragrant and herbaceous note to the dish, complementing the other flavors.
How to Beautifully Present This Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
Elevate the plating: Arrange the pasta in a nest-like shape on the plate, ensuring that the spinach, mushrooms, and pasta are evenly distributed for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of delicate microgreens, such as pea shoots or baby arugula, over the pasta to add a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant touch.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to add an elegant and sophisticated element to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Present the pasta on elegant, minimalist-style plates to create a refined and polished look that complements the sophistication of the dish.
Add a drizzle of truffle oil: Finish the dish with a subtle drizzle of truffle oil to impart a luxurious aroma and elevate the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of extravagance to the presentation.
Create a Parmesan crisp: Craft a delicate Parmesan crisp to accompany the pasta, adding a textural contrast and a visually striking element to the dish.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish with precision, focusing on creating a balanced and symmetrical composition to showcase attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Incorporate a lemon twist: Introduce a visually striking lemon twist as a finishing touch, adding a burst of vibrant color and a hint of citrus fragrance to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter
- Large pot: A large, sturdy pot is essential for boiling the pasta.
- Colander: A colander is used to drain the cooked pasta.
- Skillet: A skillet is used for browning the butter and cooking the mushrooms.
- Small stainless steel or other light-colored skillet: This type of skillet is ideal for browning the butter.
- Large skillet: A large skillet is used for cooking the mushrooms and tossing the pasta.
- Grater: A grater is used to grate the parmesan cheese.
- Lemon zester: A lemon zester is used to zest the lemon.
- Lemon juicer: A lemon juicer is used to extract the juice from the lemon.
- Cheese grater: A cheese grater is used to grate the parmesan cheese.
- Pepper grinder: A pepper grinder is used to grind fresh black pepper over the finished dish.
Storing and Freezing Tips for This Pasta Dish
- Let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply place the desired amount of pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to help moisten it.
- If you want to freeze the pasta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen pasta will keep well for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the container or bag to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Reheat the pasta as described above, adding a little extra water or olive oil if needed to help loosen it up.
- Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after being frozen and thawed, but it will still be delicious and satisfying. The spinach and mushrooms may also release some extra liquid when thawed, so be sure to drain any excess liquid before reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter
- Reheat the pasta in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen it up and prevent it from sticking together.
- For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and steaming.
- To reheat the pasta in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to crisp up slightly.
- If you have a steamer basket, you can also reheat the pasta by placing it in the basket over a pot of boiling water. Cover the steamer and let the pasta steam for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to retain the pasta's moisture and prevent it from drying out.
- For a flavorful twist, reheat the pasta in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth. Simmer the pasta over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and the broth has been absorbed. This method adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
- If you want to freshen up the leftover pasta, try adding a handful of fresh baby spinach or some chopped herbs like parsley or basil during the reheating process. The heat will wilt the spinach and release the flavors of the herbs, giving the dish a fresh taste.
- For a crispy texture, reheat the pasta in a skillet with a bit of olive oil or butter. Cook the pasta over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works particularly well for pasta dishes with a lot of sauce or toppings.
Interesting Trivia About Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter
Brown butter is a versatile ingredient that adds a rich, nutty flavor to dishes. It is made by heating butter until the milk solids turn brown, creating a unique depth of flavor. This process enhances the taste of the pasta with spinach and mushrooms, elevating the overall dish.
Is Making This Pasta Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?
This pasta with spinach, mushrooms, and brown butter recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as mushrooms, spinach, and pasta, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of butter and parmesan may slightly increase the cost, but they are staple items in many households. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10 for its simplicity, flavor, and nutritional value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly and satisfying meal option.
Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pasta recipe with spinach, mushrooms, and brown butter has both healthy and indulgent elements. Let's break it down:
Healthy aspects:
- Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
- Mushrooms are low in calories and provide fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals
- Whole wheat pasta can be used to increase fiber content
Less healthy aspects:
- Butter, although used in moderation, is high in saturated fat
- Parmesan cheese adds additional saturated fat and sodium to the dish
- The recipe lacks a significant source of lean protein
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used and replace some of it with additional olive oil, which is a healthier fat source
- Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and protein content
- Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to balance out the dish
- Increase the amount of spinach and mushrooms to boost the vegetable content and provide more nutrients
- Use a reduced-fat parmesan cheese or sprinkle it more sparingly to decrease the saturated fat content
- Consider adding other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, to increase the variety of nutrients and flavors in the dish
By making these adjustments, you can transform this pasta recipe into a more well-rounded and nutritious meal while still enjoying the delightful combination of flavors from the spinach, mushrooms, and lemon-brown butter sauce.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Pasta Dish
The combination of earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and nutty brown butter creates a harmonious and flavorful dish. The addition of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing brightness, while the parmesan and parsley provide a savory depth. The cooking method ensures that the pasta is perfectly coated and infused with the rich flavors of the ingredients. This recipe is a delightful balance of simplicity and sophistication, making it a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion.
Enhance Your Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement This Pasta Dish
Why trust this Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Brown Butter Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of mushrooms, spinach, and brown butter, creating a harmonious blend of earthy and nutty flavors. The use of lemon juice and zest of lemon adds a refreshing citrusy note, enhancing the overall taste profile. The inclusion of parmesan and fresh parsley provides a rich umami depth and a burst of freshness. The step-by-step instructions ensure a seamless cooking process, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. With its balanced flavors and clear guidance, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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