Garlic & Herb Roasted Mushrooms
A fast and flavorful roasted mushroom dish infused with fresh garlic, parsley, and olive oil. Naturally low in calories and carbs, this fiber-rich, plant-based side is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or pairing with any main course.
Equipment
- 1 Oven
- 1 baking tray
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 18 fresh mushrooms white or chestnut, quartered
- 3 garlic cloves crushed
- 4 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 –2 pinches sea salt
- 1 –2 pinches freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven Properly: Before starting with the mushrooms, set your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas 6. Make sure it reaches the correct temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. Preheating is essential for getting the mushrooms nicely roasted with a slightly caramelized exterior while keeping them tender inside.
- Prepare Mushrooms Carefully: Take 18 fresh mushrooms, preferably a mix of white and chestnut varieties for extra flavor and texture. Gently clean each mushroom with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove any dirt. Avoid rinsing under water, as mushrooms absorb moisture which can prevent proper roasting. Quarter the mushrooms into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Mince Garlic Precisely: Peel 3 fresh garlic cloves and crush them finely using a garlic press or knife. The garlic should be minced enough to release its flavor but not so fine that it turns into a paste. This will infuse the mushrooms with aromatic notes without overpowering them.
- Chop Fresh Herbs: Take 4 tablespoons of fresh parsley and chop finely. Fresh herbs add brightness and a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms. Avoid using dried parsley in this recipe, as it won’t provide the same fresh, vibrant taste.
- Combine Ingredients Thoroughly: In a large mixing bowl, combine the quartered mushrooms, minced garlic, chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently toss everything together, making sure every mushroom piece is coated evenly with oil, herbs, and seasoning. This step ensures each bite is flavorful.
- Arrange Mushrooms on Baking Tray: Spread the coated mushrooms evenly on a baking tray in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the tray, as this can cause the mushrooms to steam rather than roast, preventing them from developing a nice caramelized texture. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup if desired.
- Roast Mushrooms Slowly: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 15 minutes. Halfway through cooking, give the tray a gentle shake or use a spatula to turn the mushrooms for even browning. Keep an eye on them; mushrooms shrink as they cook, and they should be tender with lightly browned edges.
- Optional Finishing Touch: For extra richness, sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan over the mushrooms 5 minutes before the end of roasting. This will melt slightly and add a savory depth. Alternatively, experiment with different seasonings like a pinch of smoked paprika, Cajun blend, or dried Italian herbs for variety.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Remove the tray from the oven and check the mushrooms. They should be soft, juicy, and lightly caramelized. Taste one and adjust seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the roasted mushrooms to a serving dish. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm, as they retain their texture and flavor. These mushrooms make a perfect side dish for weeknight dinners, pair wonderfully with grains or pasta, and are ideal for meal prep when stored correctly.
Notes
- Use a mixture of mushrooms (white, chestnut, or cremini) for a deeper, earthy flavor and a pleasing texture contrast.
- Ensure mushrooms are cut evenly to guarantee uniform cooking and browning.
- Fresh garlic and parsley provide a bright, aromatic flavor; avoid pre-minced or dried alternatives for best results.
- Olive oil can be substituted with melted butter or a half-and-half blend for a richer taste.
- Roasted mushrooms shrink during cooking, so don’t overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
- Optional seasonings like smoked paprika, Cajun spice, or dried Italian herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
- These mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
