This ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for any night of the week. The combination of creamy goat cheese, earthy mushrooms, and tender ziti pasta creates a unique flavor profile that's sure to impress. The recipe is straightforward and simple, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
One ingredient that might not be a staple in your pantry is goat cheese. This cheese is creamy and has a distinct tangy flavor that pairs well with the earthy mushrooms. Most supermarkets carry it in their cheese section. You might also need to look out for ziti pasta. It's a tube-shaped pasta, similar to penne but slightly larger. Lastly, portobello mushrooms are used in this recipe for their meaty texture and robust flavor, but they can be substituted with cremini or white button mushrooms if needed.
Ingredients for Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese
Butter: Used for sautéing the onions and mushrooms, adding a rich flavor.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and also tossed with the pasta for a glossy finish.
Onions: They are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
Sugar: Helps in caramelizing the onions.
Portobello mushrooms: Adds a meaty texture and robust flavor to the dish.
Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Ground black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth of flavor.
Ziti: A tube-shaped pasta that holds up well in hearty sauces.
Soft goat cheese: Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to the dish.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
One reader, Aland Mccombs says:
This ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese recipe is a game-changer! The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy goat cheese is simply divine. The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish is so comforting. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty and delicious pasta dish.
Cooking Techniques to Master for This Recipe
How to caramelize onions: Onions should be sliced thinly and cooked slowly over low heat with a bit of oil or butter until they turn golden brown and develop a sweet flavor.
How to cook mushrooms: Slice the mushrooms and cook them in a pan with oil over medium heat until they are tender and browned.
How to cook ziti: Boil the ziti in a large pot of salted water for about 13 minutes until it is al dente. Then, drain the pasta and reserve some of the pasta water for later use.
How to toss pasta: After cooking the ziti, toss it with the mushroom mixture, goat cheese, and parmesan, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
How to serve: Serve the ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese with additional parmesan on top.
How To Make Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese
Classic ziti pasta is transformed into a creamy dish with a tasty cheesy sauce made from tangy goat cheese, caramelized onion, and rich parmesan cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspbutter
- 4tbspolive oil
- 3onions
- 1tspsalt
- ½tspsugar
- 1lbportobello mushrooms
- 3tbspfresh parsley,chopped
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- ¾lbziti
- 3ozsoft goat cheese
- 3tbspparmesan cheese,grated
Instructions
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In a large frying pan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter with 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderate heat.
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Add the onions, ½ teaspoon of the salt, and the sugar and cook, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes until the onions are well browned. Remove from the pan.
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In the same pan, melt the remaining with 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderate heat. Add the mushrooms and ¼ teaspoon of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until tender and brown.
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Add the reserved onions, the parsley, the remaining salt, and the pepper.
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In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the ziti for about 13 minutes until just done. Reserve ¾ cup of the pasta water and drain.
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Toss the ziti and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water with the mushroom mixture, the remaining oil, the goat cheese, and the Parmesan. If the pasta seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water.
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Serve with additional Parmesan. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 635.19kcal
- Fat: 27.34g
- Saturated Fat: 10.10g
- Trans Fat: 0.24g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.08g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.42g
- Carbohydrates: 77.70g
- Fiber: 5.93g
- Sugar: 9.69g
- Protein: 21.11g
- Cholesterol: 29.79mg
- Sodium: 796.63mg
- Calcium: 162.06mg
- Potassium: 771.41mg
- Iron: 2.39mg
- Vitamin A: 136.28µg
- Vitamin C: 10.73mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese
When cooking the onions, it's important to stir them frequently to ensure they caramelize evenly. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Similarly, when cooking the mushrooms, make sure they are spread out in the pan. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than brown, which can affect the overall flavor of the dish. Lastly, when adding the goat cheese to the pasta, it's best to do so off the heat. This allows the cheese to melt gently into the pasta, creating a creamy and delicious sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare any components of the recipe that can be done in advance. This will save time when you start cooking.
One-pot meals: Consider making one-pot meals that require minimal cleanup. This can save time on both cooking and cleaning.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools like food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to streamline the cooking process and save time.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes or adjustments.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to save time searching for ingredients and utensils.
Substitute Ingredients For Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and adds a subtle fruity flavor to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate taste to the dish.
portobello mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and texture to portobellos, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
parsley - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
ziti - Substitute with penne: Penne has a similar shape and texture to ziti, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
goat cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a tangy flavor and crumbly texture, which can provide a similar contrast to the mushrooms as goat cheese.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
Presenting Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese
Elevate the plating: As a Top Chef contestant, the presentation of the ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese is crucial. Consider using fresh parsley as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. The vibrant green will contrast beautifully with the earthy tones of the mushrooms and cheese, creating an eye-catching plate.
Incorporate texture: To impress the culinary professionals, consider adding a crispy element to the dish. Perhaps a delicate parmesan crisp or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs could provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy ziti and tender mushrooms.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the ziti is elegantly twirled and stacked, the mushrooms are evenly distributed, and the goat cheese is delicately crumbled over the top. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a visually appealing presentation. Allow the natural colors and textures of the dish to shine by leaving areas of the plate uncovered, drawing attention to the artful arrangement of the ziti, mushrooms, and goat cheese.
Consider the vessel: Select a sophisticated and complementary serving vessel for the ziti dish. A sleek, white porcelain plate or a rustic earthenware bowl can enhance the overall presentation, elevating the dining experience for the esteemed judges.
Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need
- Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and cooking large quantities of food.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining liquids from food.
- Wooden spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving food, made from wood to prevent scratching of cookware.
- Cheese grater: A kitchen tool used to grate cheese into fine pieces for cooking and garnishing.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food, typically made of wood or plastic.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and reheating food.
- Pasta pot: A large, deep pot with a strainer insert designed for cooking and draining pasta.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Leftover Ziti
- To store leftover ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta to help restore moisture and prevent it from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
- To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label and date the containers before placing them in the freezer.
- Frozen ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator overnight or place it in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing.
- When reheating frozen pasta, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator first. Then, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small amount of water or olive oil to help restore moisture.
- If you plan to freeze the pasta, consider slightly undercooking it (al dente) before freezing. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when reheated.
Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Ziti
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ziti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the pasta from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the desired portion of ziti in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or milk to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your liking.
If you have a stovetop and a bit more time, reheat the ziti in a saucepan. Add the pasta to the pan along with a splash of water, milk, or broth. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently, until the pasta is warmed through. If the sauce seems too thick, add more liquid as needed. This method allows you to adjust the consistency and flavors more easily.
For a crispy twist, transform your leftover ziti into a pasta bake. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish and top with extra goat cheese, parmesan, and some breadcrumbs for added texture. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
If you have a air fryer, you can use it to reheat your ziti quickly and achieve a slightly crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pasta in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature.
Interesting Trivia About Ziti Pasta
The recipe for ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese is a delicious and hearty vegetarian option that's perfect for a cozy dinner. It combines the earthy flavors of portobello mushrooms with the creamy tang of goat cheese, creating a rich and satisfying dish. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while still enjoying a comforting pasta dish. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized with additional herbs, spices, or even a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor. Try this ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese for a delightful and flavorful meal.
Budget-Friendly or Splurge-Worthy: The Cost of Making This Dish at Home
This ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as mushrooms and pasta, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of goat cheese elevates the dish, adding a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of flavor, affordability, and ease of preparation.
Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Not So Much?
The ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter and olive oil, which are high in calories and saturated fat.
- Goat cheese and parmesan cheese are also high in fat and calories, although they do provide some protein and calcium.
- The dish is heavy on pasta, which is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
- On the positive side, the recipe includes onions and mushrooms, which are nutrient-dense vegetables that provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and oil used in the recipe, or replace some of the oil with a lower-calorie cooking spray.
- Use whole wheat ziti instead of regular ziti to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding more mushrooms or other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Use a smaller amount of goat cheese and parmesan, or replace them with lower-fat alternatives like ricotta or feta.
- Serve the dish with a side salad to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal.
Our Editor's Take on This Delightful Pasta Dish
This ziti with mushrooms and goat cheese recipe is a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, and perfectly cooked ziti. The caramelized onions add a rich sweetness, while the parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth of flavor. The dish is well-balanced and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner. The recipe's instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a successful outcome. Overall, this dish is a winner and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
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Why trust this Ziti with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring fresh and wholesome ingredients. The earthy richness of portobello mushrooms pairs perfectly with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, creating a truly indulgent experience. The use of fresh parsley adds a burst of vibrant freshness, while the addition of parmesan cheese brings a savory depth to the dish. With the careful balance of butter and olive oil to enhance the flavors, this recipe promises a satisfying and comforting meal that you can trust to impress your taste buds.
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