Penne with mushrooms and white sauce

Penne with mushrooms and white sauce

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe, penne with mushrooms and white sauce is the perfect choice for a delicious dinner that is ready in just 30 minutes. This recipe combines the creamy flavors of the white sauce with the rich taste of mushrooms, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish. Serve these pasta with a glass of quality white wine, and you will transform a tiring day into a delightful culinary experience!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 200 g penne rigate
- 250 g chanterelles (or other preferred mushrooms)
- 200 ml cream
- 50 g Camembert cheese
- 75 g blue cheese (for example, Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
- 25 g butter
- 1 small onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves
- Freshly ground mixed pepper
- Himalayan pink salt (or sea salt)

Preparing the penne:

1. In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add the penne rigate. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Once cooked, drain the penne and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the perfect texture of the pasta.

Preparing the white sauce:

3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and the garlic (sliced or minced) and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and releases its aroma, about 3-4 minutes. This is the ideal time to add a pinch of Himalayan pink salt to enhance the flavors.

4. Reduce the heat and add the cream, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Once the sauce has begun to thicken, add the broken pieces of Camembert cheese and the blue cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt completely into the sauce, creating a creamy and rich texture. Add freshly ground mixed pepper to taste.

Preparing the mushrooms:

6. In another skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chanterelles (or preferred mushrooms) and whole cloves of garlic, then let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and slightly browned.

7. Remove the garlic cloves from the skillet (if desired, you can leave them for a stronger flavor) and mix the mushrooms with the penne and the previously prepared white sauce.

Finalizing the dish:

8. Mix everything well, ensuring that the penne are evenly coated with the creamy sauce and mushrooms. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little of the water in which the pasta was boiled to thin it out.

9. Transfer the penne with mushrooms and white sauce to a platter or individual plates. Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them on top for added flavor and a fresh look.

10. Serve immediately, alongside a glass of white wine, and enjoy every bite!

Useful tips:

- You can replace the chanterelles with other types of mushrooms, such as button or shiitake, depending on personal preferences.
- If you want to make the recipe even richer, add some diced chicken breast or crispy pancetta.
- Use grated Parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor, if preferred.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:

Penne with mushrooms and white sauce are not only delicious but also nutritious. Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, which support metabolism and nervous system health. The cream and cheeses provide a good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health.

Calories:

A serving of penne with mushrooms and white sauce contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a satisfying meal, but like any recipe, moderation is key.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain penne is an excellent choice for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.

2. What type of wine pairs best with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the sauce.

3. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a little olive oil or water to bring them back to life.

4. Can I make the sauce lighter?
Sure! You can use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version.

These penne with mushrooms and white sauce are the ideal choice for a quick yet flavorful meal, perfect to share with loved ones. Experiment with different ingredients and turn this recipe into your personal masterpiece! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 200 g penne rigate, 250 g mushrooms, 200 ml sour cream, 50 g camembert cheese, 75 g blue cheese, 25 g butter, 1 small onion, 4 cloves of garlic, 4-5 basil leaves, mixed pepper, Himalayan pink salt

 Tags:  pasta with mushrooms