Sautéed Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms are a simple, flavorful, and versatile side dish, perfect to pair with meat dishes or to enjoy even just with some good crusty bread. Here’s how to prepare delicious Italian-style sautéed mushrooms.

Ingredients

• 500 g of fresh mushrooms (like champignons, porcini, or a mix)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Fresh parsley to taste
• 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon juice (optional)

Preparation

1. Clean the mushrooms using a damp cloth or brush to remove any soil residues. Avoid washing them under running water as they absorb water and lose flavor. Slice the mushrooms or leave them whole if they are small.
2. Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely.
3. In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil and add the chopped garlic. Sauté over medium heat for a few minutes until it turns golden.
4. Add the mushrooms, raise the heat, and let them cook, stirring occasionally. During cooking, the mushrooms will release their natural water.
5. Continue cooking until all the water has evaporated and the mushrooms are nicely browned.
6. At this point, lower the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can add a bit of lemon juice to provide a fresh note.
7. Transfer the mushrooms to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Curiosity

Mushrooms are a highly appreciated food in Italian cuisine and can be prepared in many ways. Sautéing in a pan enhances their flavor and makes them a light and tasty side or main dish. Always remember to choose fresh and quality mushrooms, because the outcome of the dish depends very much on the raw materials.

For an even richer variant, you could add a drizzle of truffle cream or a pinch of chili pepper during cooking. Enjoy your meal!