Straw And Hay
Straw and Hay is a creamy, savory pasta dish with tender mushrooms, peas, ham, and Parmesan, perfect for a comforting meal that combines rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach noodles and fettucini in boiling salted water until tender.
- Drain the noodles and toss with 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Cover and set aside.
- Melt the remaining butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Saute the minced garlic until golden, then remove and discard the garlic.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Stir in the whipping cream, drained peas, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
- Add the cooked noodles, ham (if using), and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms. If you can't find spinach noodles, regular egg noodles can be a fine substitute. For a protein boost, diced chicken or shrimp would work well; just sauté them before the mushrooms. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting any meat, allowing the creamy sauce to shine through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a light side salad or garlic bread to complement the creamy texture. A glass of Peach Bellinis pairs beautifully with the rich flavors. For an Italian-themed dinner, consider following this with a light dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to prevent the noodles from drying out. Microwaving is an option as well, but stir frequently to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Straw And Hay contains roughly 237 calories, with 8g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1921mg per serving (84% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles and sauce separately in advance. Combine them just before serving to maintain the texture of the noodles. If you plan to make it ahead, slightly undercook the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheated.
What can I use instead of whipping cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream could work, though flavors will vary.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it cooks for a bit of heat. Additionally, experimenting with spicy Italian sausage instead of ham can elevate the flavor profile and add a delightful kick to the dish.
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).