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Vegan Mushroom Pasta

This mushroom pasta showcases the rich umami flavor of mushrooms, sautéed until deeply browned and fragrant, then combined with al dente pasta, garlic, herbs, and a splash of lemon for brightness. The dish has a hearty, earthy texture with a glossy, flavorful sauce clinging to every strand of pasta, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or comforting meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz dry pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
  • 8 oz mixed mushrooms (cremini and shiitake recommended) cleaned and sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced finely
  • 3 tbsp olive oil good quality extra virgin preferred
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley chopped
  • 1 lemon lemon juiced, about 2 tbsp
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast optional, for cheesy flavor
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water from cooking the pasta

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and wait until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the hot oil, spreading them out in an even layer. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deeply browned and smell nutty.
  4. Push the mushrooms to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the cleared space and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and slightly golden.
  5. Mix the garlic into the mushrooms, then pour in the reserved pasta water. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and flavors to meld.
  6. Add the cooked pasta directly into the mushroom sauce, tossing everything together with a wooden spoon until well coated. Cook for another minute until hot and glossy.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta, then sprinkle with nutritional yeast and chopped herbs. Toss gently to combine and brighten the dish.
  8. Rest the pasta for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.