Name: Farfalle Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz farfalle pasta; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 2 cups cremini or button mushrooms, sliced; 3 cups fresh spinach leaves; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Farfalle Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions is a comforting and flavorful vegetarian dish. The sweetness of caramelized onions pairs beautifully with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

A white bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is bright green spinach leaves, fresh and slightly wilted; the middle layer consists of golden brown cooked mushrooms, sliced thick with some glossy caramelized edges; the top layer is light brown farfalle pasta, each piece showing a smooth texture with slightly curled edges and sprinkled with cracked black pepper, giving a speckled look; all ingredients are mixed evenly, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz farfalle pasta
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
2 cups cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
3 cups fresh spinach leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until golden and caramelized. Reduce heat if they begin to brown too quickly. Remove onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 3: In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-6 minutes until browned.
Step 4: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Step 5: Return the caramelized onions to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss to combine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a cohesive sauce.
Step 6: Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme if using. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter when combining the pasta with the vegetables.
Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach for a heartier green.
Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep the dish dairy-free.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is dark green spinach leaves with a smooth, slightly shiny texture; the middle layer consists of sautéed brown mushrooms sliced in half with a glossy surface; the top layer is light brown farfalle pasta spread evenly, with a slight sheen from sauce and sprinkled black pepper flakes; all ingredients are mixed together, presented on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni would work well with the sauce and vegetables in this dish.

How do I know when the onions are caramelized properly?

The onions should be soft, golden brown, and slightly sweet in aroma. This process usually takes about 20-25 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.