This vegetarian rigatoni recipe features a creamy sauce made from fresh spinach and mushrooms, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is both comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for any pasta lover!

Ingredients

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (or a plant-based alternative)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

1. Add Mushrooms:

• Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and tender. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.

1. Incorporate Spinach:

• Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

1. Make the Creamy Sauce:

• Pour in the heavy cream (or plant-based alternative) and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

1. Combine with Pasta:

• Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and lemon zest for added brightness.

1. Serve:

• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: For extra protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas or white beans.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

This creamy spinach and mushroom rigatoni is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce creates a comforting meal that will satisfy everyone at your table. Enjoy this flavorful dish that celebrates vegetarian ingredients in a delightful way!