Spinach Mushroom Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Pasta

01 - 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or any other variety)
02 - Salt for boiling pasta water

→ For the Sauce

03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
04 - 2 tablespoons butter (optional for richness)
05 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button mushrooms, cremini, or portobello work well)
08 - 4 cups fresh spinach (about 1 large bunch)
09 - 1/2 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
10 - 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
11 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan parmesan for a plant-based option)
12 - Salt and pepper to taste
13 - Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or basil)

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Cook onion for 2-3 minutes until soft, then add garlic and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until mushrooms are golden and tender.
03 - Add spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, stirring frequently.
04 - Pour in broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add heavy cream and simmer another 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
05 - Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
06 - Garnish with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute vegan Parmesan.
02 - You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
03 - For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
04 - The dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.