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Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Pasta
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Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Pasta is a savory and comforting dish combining the natural sweetness of slowly caramelized leeks with earthy mushrooms, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, gourmet-quality meal ideal for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 3 large leeks, cleaned and thinly sliced
  • 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini, shiitake, or portobello recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

Pasta and Dairy

  • 12 oz (340 g) medium-width pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Oils and Herbs

  • 3 tbsp olive oil or butter (for caramelizing)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Thoroughly clean the leeks and slice them thinly. Slice the mushrooms evenly for consistent cooking. Peel and mince the garlic to maximize flavor release.
  2. Caramelize the Leeks: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, golden brown, and release their natural sweetness—avoid burning them.
  3. Sauté the Mushrooms: Increase the heat to medium and add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn a rich golden color, stirring occasionally to develop flavor.
  4. Cook the Garlic and Combine: Add the minced garlic to the leeks and mushrooms, cooking for about one minute more until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic to maintain optimal flavor.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a splash of the starchy cooking water.
  6. Toss Everything Together: Return the leek and mushroom mixture to low heat, then add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and mix well before serving.

Notes

  • Cook leeks low and slow to unlock their natural sweetness without burning.
  • Clean mushrooms by wiping with a damp cloth rather than washing to maintain firm texture.
  • Reserve pasta cooking water to help bind the sauce and improve texture.
  • Use good-quality olive oil or butter for richer flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caramelized Leek, Mushroom Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Comfort Food, Vegetarian Pasta, Gluten-Free Option

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/caramelized-leek-and-mushroom-pasta/