Discover the lighter side of a classic pesto with our Mushroom Pesto with Parsley recipe. To achieve a leaner version of this beloved sauce, we’ve made a few clever substitutions, trading some of the olive oil for part-skim ricotta cheese. The result is a creamy, satisfying pesto that’s gentler on the waistline without compromising on taste. Emphasizing the umami-packed mushrooms, we cook them quickly in a skillet to preserve their natural moisture, ensuring a succulent and flavorful sauce. For added versatility, you can use cremini mushrooms as a suitable substitute for white mushrooms. The aromatic combination of garlic, thyme, and rehydrated porcini mushrooms elevates the taste to new heights. Prepare to be delighted by this nourishing and delightful Mushroom Pesto with Parsley that’s perfect for a comforting pasta meal any day of the week.
INGREDIENTS:
- 10 ounces white mushrooms, trimmed and sliced ¼ inch thick
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ ounce dried porcini mushrooms, rehydrated (see note) and minced
- Salt and pepper
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ¼ cup water
- 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup), plus extra for serving
- ¼ cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- 1 pound pasta
PREPARATIONS:
- In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, combine white mushrooms, shallot, 1 tablespoon oil, rehydrated porcini, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cover and cook over medium-low heat until mushrooms release their juices, about 7 minutes.
- Uncover the skillet and stir in minced garlic and thyme. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms are nicely browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Process the mushroom mixture, grated Parmesan, part-skim ricotta, parsley, and remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a food processor until smooth, 30 to 60 seconds, scraping down the bowl as needed.
- Transfer the pesto mixture to a medium bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Cremini mushrooms can be used as a substitute for white mushrooms if desired.
TIPS:
- To rehydrate dried porcini mushrooms, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened, then drain and mince.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
YIELD:
- This recipe yields a generous serving, perfect for four pasta enthusiasts.
In conclusion, our Mushroom Pesto with Parsley recipe is a delightful journey into the world of flavorful and wholesome sauces. By opting for part-skim ricotta in place of some of the olive oil, we’ve succeeded in creating a lighter pesto that’s equally indulgent. The rich essence of mushrooms takes center stage, enhanced by the aromatic symphony of garlic, thyme, and rehydrated porcini mushrooms.
The skillet method allows us to cook the mushrooms quickly, preserving their natural juices and guaranteeing a succulent texture that pairs perfectly with pasta. Whether you choose white mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, the result will be a sauce that’s bursting with umami and depth.
The creamy amalgamation of grated Parmesan and part-skim ricotta adds a luxurious mouthfeel to the pesto, without overwhelming it with unnecessary calories. The fresh parsley provides a refreshing note, brightening the overall flavor and adding a touch of vibrancy to the sauce.
This Mushroom Pesto with Parsley is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. It can elevate a simple bowl of pasta to a gourmet experience or be used as a flavorful spread for sandwiches and crostinis.
The nutritional information underscores the healthfulness of this pesto, with just 8 grams of fat and 380 calories per serving. Its protein content of 15 grams makes it a balanced and satisfying meal option for any occasion.
In conclusion, our Mushroom Pesto with Parsley showcases the magic of thoughtful ingredient choices and cooking techniques, proving that lighter versions of beloved dishes can be just as indulgent and flavorful. Embrace the earthy charm of mushrooms, paired with the freshness of parsley, in this delightful pesto that’s sure to become a family favorite.
As you savor each forkful of pasta coated in this savory and creamy sauce, you’ll relish the comfort and satisfaction it brings to your table. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo, this Mushroom Pesto with Parsley is a testament to the joy of simple and wholesome cooking.
