Really Easy, Quick & Delicious Mushroom Tomato Smoked Paprika Spaghetti
This recipe delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal using readily available ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting pasta dish without spending hours in the kitchen, this Mushroom Tomato Smoked Paprika Spaghetti is a guaranteed winner. It’s a simple yet sophisticated combination of earthy mushrooms, tangy tomatoes, and the smoky warmth of paprika, all brought together with perfectly cooked spaghetti. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!
Yields: 2 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
400 grams (15 oz) canned diced tomatoes
3 cups cooked spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional but highly recommended)
Equipment:
Large skillet or saucepan
Pasta pot
Instructions
Getting Started:
Cook the Pasta: While you prepare the sauce, ensure your spaghetti is cooked al dente according to package directions. Remember to salt your pasta water generously; this is the only chance to season the pasta itself. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water; you might need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.
Building the Flavor Base:
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add Mushrooms (Optional): If using mushrooms, add them to the skillet and cook until they soften and release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Creating the Sauce:
Incorporate Spices: Stir in the dried oregano and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their full flavor. The smoked paprika is the star here, so don’t skimp on the quality!
Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust Consistency (If Needed): If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Bringing it All Together:
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve Immediately: Serve the Mushroom Tomato Smoked Paprika Spaghetti hot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the oregano and smoked paprika.
Add Protein: Sauté some Italian sausage or crumbled ground beef along with the onion and garlic for a heartier meal.
Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as basil or oregano, chop them finely and add them to the sauce in the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of freshness.
Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrients and flavor.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Wine Consideration: Add a splash of dry red wine after sautéing the onions and garlic for a deeper, more complex flavor. Let the wine reduce by half before adding the tomatoes.
Make it Vegan: Ensure your pasta is vegan and skip the parmesan cheese topping.
Enjoy!
This Mushroom Tomato Smoked Paprika Spaghetti is a versatile and delicious dish that can be easily customized to your preferences. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a few basic techniques can create a truly satisfying meal. Job done nice and easy! Enjoy your delicious creation!
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