Simple Garlic Herb Sautéed Mushrooms
These Simple Garlic Herb Sautéed Mushrooms are a quick and easy side dish, ready in just 15 minutes. Earthy mushrooms are perfectly browned and infused with aromatic garlic and fresh parsley, making them a delicious and versatile addition to any meal.
For 2 servings
Gently clean the cremini mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice them evenly, about 1/4 inch thick.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Ensure the pan is hot before adding mushrooms.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the hot pan in a single layer, if possible. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam them instead of browning. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the undersides are deeply golden brown.
Stir the mushrooms and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and have released most of their moisture, which will then evaporate.
Create a small space in the center of the pan and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir the garlic into the mushrooms. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately as a versatile side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Wash Mushrooms:** Instead of rinsing, gently wipe mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel. Mushrooms absorb water like sponges, which can make them soggy when cooked.
- 2**Avoid Overcrowding:** Cook mushrooms in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature and causes mushrooms to steam rather than brown, resulting in a less flavorful, watery texture.
- 3**High Heat is Key:** Start with a hot pan and medium-high heat. This allows the mushrooms to quickly release their moisture and develop a beautiful caramelized crust, enhancing their umami flavor.
- 4**Season at the End:** Add salt towards the end of cooking. Salting too early can draw out moisture prematurely, preventing proper browning.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for different aromatic profiles. A mix of herbs de Provence also works wonderfully.
Flavor BoostFlavor Boost
Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine or vegetable broth after the garlic is fragrant. For an extra umami kick, add a teaspoon of soy sauce or balsamic glaze.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle heat, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a more pronounced spice.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid), selenium, and copper, which are essential for energy metabolism and antioxidant defense.
Immune Support
Certain compounds in mushrooms, like beta-glucans, are known to stimulate the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and diseases.
Gut Health
Mushrooms contain prebiotics, which feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy digestive system and potentially improving overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! While cremini (baby bella) mushrooms are great, you can use white button mushrooms, shiitake, oyster, or a mix of your favorite varieties. Adjust cooking time slightly as needed for different densities.
