Creamy Miso Pasta

Creamy Miso Pasta: A Flavorful Fusion of Umami and Comfort

If you’re looking for a unique and delicious twist on classic pasta dishes, this Creamy Miso Pasta is the perfect option. The savory, umami flavor of miso pairs beautifully with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Topped with roasted nori and red pepper flakes, this dish has both comforting creaminess and an exciting depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces linguine or other type of pasta
• 1 ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cups sliced mushrooms (stems removed)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• ½ – ¾ cup heavy cream (adjust to taste)
• 3 tablespoons miso paste (white or brown)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¾ cup reserved pasta water (added gradually, more as needed)
• Chopped roasted nori and red pepper flakes for garnish, to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by cooking the linguine in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, reserve some of the pasta water (about ¾ cup), then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sear the Mushrooms:

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer and let them sear without stirring, allowing them to develop a golden-brown color. After they’re browned, season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

Lower the heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan along with the minced garlic and diced shallot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic and shallots are fragrant and softened.

4. Make the Creamy Miso Sauce:

Next, pour in the heavy cream, starting with ½ cup and adding more if needed to reach your desired creaminess. Stir in the miso paste and grated parmesan cheese, mixing well until the miso dissolves into the sauce and everything is smooth. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce. Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water, tossing the pasta to coat it evenly. Continue adding pasta water as needed until the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, giving it a silky consistency.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped roasted nori and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture.

Recipe Notes:

• Pasta Substitutions: While linguine works wonderfully in this dish, you can use other types of pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even short pasta like penne or rigatoni.
• Miso Variations: White miso will give a milder, sweeter flavor, while brown miso offers a more robust and earthy taste. Feel free to choose based on your flavor preferences.
• Make it Vegan: To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter, use a dairy-free cream, and swap out the parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Creamy Miso Pasta is a delightful fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors, perfect for when you want a hearty meal that’s packed with umami. The combination of earthy mushrooms, rich cream, and savory miso makes this dish an instant favorite for pasta lovers looking for something new. Try it for your next dinner, and enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes!

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