Take your classic pasta and mushrooms dinner for two to new heights by adding a creamy, earthy twist with the addition of delectable Camembert cheese. Elevating the dish with a delightful combination of shiitake and cremini mushrooms, we ensure a hearty mushroom flavor that perfectly complements the pasta. By sautéing the mushrooms first and then building the sauce separately, we retain their toothsome and slightly chewy texture. The chicken broth comes into play to infuse the sauce with rich flavors, as we scrape up the browned mushroom bits left behind in the pan. A burst of color and freshness is brought in by convenient frozen peas, while a touch of cream lends the sauce a velvety and indulgent consistency. As for the star of the show, the Camembert, we cut it into small pieces and add it just before serving, allowing the residual heat to soften it without fully melting it. Each bite of this delectable pasta promises a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner for two. Whether you’re looking to impress or simply indulge in a delightful evening meal, this Camembert and mushroom pasta will undoubtedly exceed expectations.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 shallots, minced
- 4 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced ¼ inch thick
- 6 ounces cremini mushrooms, trimmed and sliced ¼ inch thick
- Salt and pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces (2½ cups) campanelle
- 3 ounces Camembert, rind left intact, cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
- 1½ teaspoons lemon juice
PREPARATIONS:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until the butter melts. Add the minced shallots and cook until softened approximately 3 minutes. Increase the heat to medium-high, stir in the shiitake mushrooms, and cook for 1 minute. Then, stir in the cremini mushrooms and ¼ teaspoon of salt, cooking until they turn golden, about 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds. Transfer the cooked mushrooms to a bowl and cover to keep warm.
YIELD: 2 servings
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Other pasta shapes can be used in place of campanelle, but the cup measurements may vary. (Refer to the link provided.)
TIPS:
- To achieve a velvety and flavorful sauce, ensure to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet while adding the chicken broth.
- Adding the Camembert just before serving allows it to soften from the residual heat without fully melting, ensuring a delectable and creamy texture.
In conclusion, this Camembert and mushroom pasta is a delightful and indulgent dish that takes a simple pasta and mushroom dinner for two to a whole new level of sophistication. The rich and earthy flavor of shiitake and cremini mushrooms adds a hearty touch while sautéing them separately ensures their texture remains slightly chewy and toothsome. The chicken broth, combined with the browned bits from the skillet, forms a delicious base for the sauce, enhanced by the convenience of frozen peas and the velvety cream. However, it is the Camembert cheese that truly steals the show, providing a luxurious creaminess and a touch of indulgence to the dish.
As with any pasta recipe, there is room for creativity and personalization. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms to suit your taste preferences, and don’t hesitate to add some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating a splash of white wine into the sauce, adding a sophisticated depth of flavor.
This Camembert and mushroom pasta not only delights the taste buds but also offers a nutritional balance that can be part of a well-rounded meal. The combination of mushrooms, peas, and Camembert provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The dish also contains a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting and delectable dinner, this Camembert and mushroom pasta promises to deliver a memorable and delicious experience. The flavors and textures dance harmoniously on the palate, leaving you with a sense of culinary gratification.
In conclusion, embrace the rich and creamy delight of this Camembert and mushroom pasta, where the essence of earthy mushrooms harmonizes beautifully with the indulgent creaminess of the cheese. Gather your loved one or dear friend and relish in the magic of a homemade dinner that exudes warmth and flavor. This pasta dish is a true celebration of simple ingredients elevated to culinary excellence.
