crimini ragu with spinach crostini and chicken ragu with whole wheat pasta
Alaina Swanstrom
Ingredients
- Crimini Ragu Ingredients:
- Crimini Mushrooms (2 cups sliced)
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
- Garlic Cloves (3, minced)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tablespoons)
- Tomatoes (8 oz canned crushed tomatoes)
- Diced Tomatoes (6 oz can diced tomatoes)
- Beef Stock (1 cup)
- Red Wine (1/2 cup, optional for richer flavor)
- Fresh Basil (1 tablespoon chopped, for garnish)
- Spinach Crostini Ingredients:
- Baguette Slices (8 thin slices)
- Olive Oil (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (Pinch)
- Fresh Spinach Leaves (4 cups, roughly chopped)
- Parmesan Cheese (2 tablespoons, grated)
- Red Pepper Flakes (A pinch for some heat)
- Chicken Ragu Ingredients:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (8 oz, cut into small pieces)
- Salt (To taste)
- Pepper (To taste)
- Whole Wheat Pasta (10 oz, for serving)
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
- Garlic Cloves (3, minced)
- Red Bell Peppers (1 medium, diced)
- Carrots (2 small, peeled and grated)
- Zucchini (1 cup, sliced)
- Ground Turkey or Beef (8 oz, optional for a meatier ragu)
- Fresh Tomatoes (4 cups, diced)
- Canned Tomato Paste (3 tablespoons)
- Chicken Stock (2 cups)
- Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried)
- Rosemary (1/2 teaspoon, dried)
- Additional Ingredients:
- Salt (As needed for seasoning)
- Black Pepper (As needed for seasoning)
- Fresh Herbs (For garnish, such as parsley or basil)
- Balsamic Vinegar (A drizzle for finishing touch)
Steps
### Crimini Ragu with Spinach Crostini & Chicken Ragu with Whole Wheat Pasta
#### Overview
This recipe combines two delightful dishes: a rich crimini ragu served over whole wheat pasta and a delicious spinach crostini garnish that adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the meal. The combination of earthy mushrooms and tender chicken, along with the subtle freshness of spinach in the crostini, makes for a well-balanced and comforting dinner.
#### Ingredients
**For the Crimini Ragu:**
- 200g crimini mushrooms
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g ground chicken
- 400ml crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**For the Spinach Crostini:**
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (preferably sourdough)
- 50g fresh spinach, washed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**For the Chicken Ragu with Whole Wheat Pasta:**
- 300g whole wheat pasta (spaghetti or rigatoni)
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400ml crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
#### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Crimini Ragu**
1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. **Add Garlic and Mushrooms:** Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Cook Chicken and Mushrooms:** Add ground chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, add sliced crimini mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and are slightly caramelized.
4. **Add Tomatoes and Simmer:** Pour in crushed tomatoes, stir well, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 20-30 minutes on low heat. Check seasoning and adjust if necessary.
**Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Crostini**
1. **Toast Bread:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the crusty bread into slices and lightly toast in the oven.
2. **Sauté Garlic and Spinach:** In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then add spinach leaves and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted.
3. **Layer and Bake:** Place a layer of spinach mixture on each toasted bread slice. Drizzle with additional olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake in the oven for another 5-7 minutes or until lightly golden.
**Step 3: Cook Chicken Ragu with Whole Wheat Pasta**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** In a separate large pot, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until soft.
2. **Add Ground Chicken:** Add ground chicken to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once browned, add crushed tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
3. **Simmer Ragu:** Let the ragu simmer for 20-30 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. Stir in white wine and continue cooking until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. **Cook Pasta:** While the ragu is cooking, cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain well.
#### Serving
1. **Serve Ragu with Pasta:** Divide the cooked pasta among plates, spooning a generous amount of chicken ragu over each portion.
2. **Top with Spinach Crostini:** Garnish each plate with a slice of spinach crostini for added freshness and texture.
3. **Garnish with Fresh Basil:** Finish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a delightful and comforting meal that is perfect for any cozy evening at home.