Egg Noodles with Mushrooms

Introduction :

Ingredients:

• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and dried thyme to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the mushroom sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Expert Tips for Serving and Storage:

• Serve egg noodles with mushrooms hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutritional and Health Benefits:

• Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in nutrients like vitamins B and D, as well as minerals such as selenium and potassium.
• Egg noodles provide carbohydrates for energy, and the addition of olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• This dish is a good source of protein from both the egg noodles and mushrooms, promoting satiety and muscle repair.

Variations to Explore:

• Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, basil, or paprika to customize the flavor profile.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion:

Egg noodles with mushrooms offer a comforting and flavorful meal option suitable for any occasion. With a simple yet satisfying combination of ingredients, this dish is sure to please both vegetarians and mushroom enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use dried mushrooms instead of fresh. However, you’ll need to rehydrate them before using them in your recipe. Simply soak them in hot water for about 20-30 minutes until they become plump and tender. Drain them well before adding them to your dish.
2. What type of mushrooms work best for this recipe?
   • The best mushrooms for your recipe will depend on personal preference and the specific flavors you’re aiming for. However, commonly used mushrooms in recipes like this include cremini, button mushrooms, portobello, or a mix of wild mushrooms for a deeper flavor profile.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. You can prepare the sauce and cook the noodles separately, then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and noodles separately, then combine them before serving.
4. Is there a gluten-free alternative to egg noodles?
   • Yes, there are several gluten-free alternatives to egg noodles. You can use gluten-free pasta such as rice noodles, quinoa noodles, or noodles made from chickpea flour. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to your dish.
5. How can I add more protein to this dish?
   • There are several ways to add more protein to your dish:
     • Add cooked chicken, beef, pork, tofu, or tempeh to the dish.
     • Incorporate cooked beans such as cannellini beans, chickpeas, or black beans.
     • Include nuts or seeds like almonds, cashews, or sesame seeds as toppings.
     • Stir in some edamame or peas for an extra protein boost.
     • Consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, which not only adds protein but also a cheesy flavor to the dish.

Resources :

1. Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
2. How to Cook Mushrooms
3. Benefits of Eating Mushrooms
4. Egg Noodle Cooking Tips
5. Quick and Easy Mushroom Recipes