Spinach Mushroom Bowties with Decadent Caramelized Onions 🍝🍄

This delightful pasta dish balances the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach with the sweetness of caramelized onions. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at your next dinner party! The bowtie pasta provides a fun texture, and the creamy sauce brings everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the caramelized onions

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste

For the creamy sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden and soft.
3. Sprinkle sugar over the onions and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes to enhance their sweetness.

🥄 Patience is key! Cooking the onions slowly will develop their natural sugars and bring out the best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

4. While the onions are caramelizing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Spinach

5. In the same skillet used for the onions, add the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and fry until they are brown and tender.
6. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

7. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, vegetable broth, garlic powder, dried thyme, and lemon juice until well combined.
8. Pour the creamy sauce into the skillet with the mushrooms and spinach, stirring to coat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

9. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together gently until the pasta is coated and warmed through.
10. Incorporate the caramelized onions at the last moment, folding them in carefully.

🧊 Feel free to reserve a few onion slices for garnish! This adds a beautiful touch when serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

11. Serve the Spinach Mushroom Bowties hot, sprinkling each plate with optional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness. Enjoy!

Variations

• Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a plant-based butter for the onions. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. 🌱
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to make the dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein if desired. 🦐
• Herbed Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to elevate the flavor profile even further.

This recipe is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table, combining comfort and elegance in every delightful bite! 🍽️💚