Spaghettini Ticino
A creamy, savory spaghetti dish with mushrooms, prosciutto, and Parmesan, perfect for mushroom lovers and those seeking rich, comforting flavors in an elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and slice them, reserving the stems for stock or soup.
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the mushroom slices and cook without browning for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the minced scallions and mashed garlic, cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then season with salt and white pepper.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the prosciutto, cover, and cook over low heat for 5 minutes.
- Cook the spaghettini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the mushroom mixture and prosciutto.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, heating gently until combined and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using wild mushrooms like chanterelles or morels instead of standard button mushrooms. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. To add a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the mushrooms. This dish also pairs beautifully with Italian Strip Cookies for a sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spaghettini Ticino hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Tiramisu (Light) for a delightful Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce, and warm gently over low heat to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghettini Ticino contains roughly 477 calories, with 12g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2497mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while spaghettini is traditional, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or linguine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose to ensure it remains al dente.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can omit the prosciutto and add sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor. For extra umami, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives, making it a delicious vegetarian recipe without sacrificing taste.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the mushroom and prosciutto mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the spaghettini, combine with the prepped mixture, and stir in the cream just before serving to ensure freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).