Description
A creamy and comforting pasta dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a rich Gorgonzola and cream sauce. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a perfect balance of earthy flavors and smooth textures, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish
- 45g (6 tbsp) walnuts
- 600g (21oz) spaghetti
- 28g (2 tbsp) butter
- 250g (2½ cups) mushrooms, sliced
- 250g (8 cups) spinach, washed
- 375ml (1½ cups) double / heavy cream
- 150g (5oz) Gorgonzola cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Toast the Walnuts: Heat a dry frying pan over medium heat and add the walnuts. Continuously stir them for a few minutes until they become golden brown and aromatic. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Melt the Butter: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter completely, ensuring it does not brown.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and release their moisture.
- Add the Spinach: Add the washed spinach to the mushrooms and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume.
- Add the Cream: Pour the double/heavy cream into the pan with vegetables, stirring gently, and allow it to heat through for approximately 2 minutes, combining all flavors.
- Melt the Cheese: Break the Gorgonzola cheese into small pieces and stir it into the cream sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the pan and toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top and serve immediately, optionally with crusty bread. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
- For added texture, you can lightly chop the walnuts before toasting.
- If Gorgonzola is not available, you can substitute with another creamy blue cheese or feta.
- To reduce calories, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
