Mushroom and Garlic Spaghetti Dinner

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti: 12 oz (about 340g)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Mushrooms: 10 oz (about 285g), sliced (mix your favorites like cremini, shiitake, or button)
• Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated (optional)
• Fresh parsley: ¼ cup, chopped (optional)
• Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and black pepper: To taste
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a touch of brightness)

Instructions:

Cook the Spaghetti:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Garlic and Mushrooms:

1. While the spaghetti cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release moisture and turn golden brown.

Combine Everything:

1. Once the mushrooms are ready, add butter to the pan and let it melt.
2. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix thoroughly. If the pasta is too dry, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Serve:

1. Remove the pan from heat and stir in lemon juice (if using) and fresh parsley.
2. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips:

• For added variety, consider adding ingredients like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
• For a vegan version, swap butter with vegan butter and skip the Parmesan, or use a vegan cheese alternative.