Imagine a side dish that transforms your ordinary meal into a gourmet experience – this Spinach and Shiitake Mushroom Stuffing is about to become your new culinary obsession! Packed with earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a perfect blend of herbs and cheese, this recipe promises to elevate your dining table from mundane to magnificent. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a luxurious side dish, this stuffing will have your guests begging for seconds and asking for the recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing spinach thoroughly, slicing shiitake mushrooms, chopping onion, and mincing garlic.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Incorporate sliced shiitake mushrooms into the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become lightly browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts completely, stirring occasionally, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the vegetable mixture from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- Mix in breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and transfer the stuffing mixture to a prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Tips
- Fresh is Best: Always use fresh spinach and high-quality shiitake mushrooms for the most intense flavor profile.
- Moisture Management: Make sure to cook mushrooms until they release their moisture completely to prevent a soggy stuffing.
- Breadcrumb Trick: Toast your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing for an extra crispy texture.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the most robust flavor – pre-grated cheese can't compare!
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with salt and pepper; they're crucial for bringing out the deep flavors of the mushrooms and spinach.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and achieve the perfect consistency.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this stuffing a day in advance and bake it just before serving for maximum convenience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
