Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Delight
Description
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Delight is a comforting, savory dish featuring tender mushrooms and fresh spinach enveloped in a velvety garlic cream sauce. Perfect as a main vegetarian dish or a side to grilled chicken, steak, or pasta. It’s rich, aromatic, and takes less than 30 minutes — a perfect blend of earthy flavors and smooth creaminess.
Time Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 2–3 people
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
250 g (2 cups) mushrooms (button, cremini, or mixed), sliced
3 cups baby spinach (fresh)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for heat)
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Optional Add-ins:
1 tablespoon cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (to balance flavor)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
4.Add sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release water and turn golden brown.
5. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add Spinach
6. Add spinach to the pan and stir until wilted (about 1–2 minutes).
Step 4: Create the Cream Sauc
7. Lower the heat and pour in the cream. Stir gently to combine.
8. Add Parmesan cheese, thyme, and (optional) cream cheese for extra thickness.
9. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened and creamy.
Step 5: Adjust and Serve
10. Taste and adjust seasoning (add salt, pepper, or lemon juice).
11. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Serve hot with rice, pasta, garlic bread, or grilled chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Main dish: Serve over buttered pasta or mashed potatoes.
Side dish: Pair with grilled salmon, chicken, or steak.
Low-carb option: Enjoy with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 2
g Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but it will be less rich. For best results, use whole milk and add 1 tsp flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce slightly.
Q2: What type of mushrooms work best?
A Button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms are ideal. A mix gives a deeper flavor.
Q3: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes — use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat; add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Q5: Can I add protein?
A: Absolutely! Add cooked chicken strips, shrimp, or tofu cubes to make it a complete meal.
Chef’s Tip
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking mushrooms; let them brown for better flavor.
A splash of white wine before adding cream enhances the richness.
Would you like me to include a non-dairy (vegan) version of this recipe as well?wn for flavor
A splash of white wine before adding cream enhances the richnes