Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes
Mushroom and Swiss chard pasta (Serves 4)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 8 ounces (225 grams) Swiss chard, stems and leaves separated and chopped
- 8 ounces (225 grams) of mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) of grated Parmesan cheese
Total calories per portion: 520
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, or according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat (around 180°C/350°F). Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the Swiss chard stems to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes. Then, add the leaves and continue to cook until they are wilted.
- Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until they are browned and tender.
- Stir in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss to combine. If necessary, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Divide the pasta between four plates, and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top before serving.
Enjoy this simple, delicious, and low-calorie meal of mushroom and Swiss chard pasta. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner at the end of a busy day!
A healthier take on mushroom and Swiss chard pasta
To make a healthier version of the mushroom and Swiss chard pasta, consider using whole wheat pasta over regular pasta as this not only adds fiber and nutrients but also has less impact on blood sugar.
In the sauce, try using less butter and add more fresh herbs like garlic and basil for flavor.
You could also throw in extra vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for added nutrients without significantly changing the taste.
Storing your mushroom and Swiss chard pasta
Once the mushroom and Swiss chard pasta has been prepared, it can be kept in the refrigerator for around 3 to 4 days.
Ensure that it’s stored in a well-sealed container to prevent it from drying out. If you wish to keep it longer, you could freeze it, where it will last for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a little water or broth to loosen up the pasta.
Pairing mushroom and Swiss chard pasta
The robust flavors in the mushroom and Swiss chard pasta go spectacularly well with dry white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or light reds such as Pinot Noir.
As for sides, a simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette or a side of grilled vegetables would complement the pasta nicely. A light dessert like fruit salad or sorbet would be a refreshing way to finish the meal.
