We know some weeks you just need something easy. Those nights when you’re tired, it’s been a long day, and you think you don’t have it in you to do Date Nite, but you always do. On those evenings (or the ones you know will be busy before they even start), it helps to have a dinner that comes together effortlessly and still feels special.
That’s why this week, we’re embracing the spirit of the No-Recipe Recipe, inspired by The New York Times. We’ll give you ingredient estimates, but there’s no need to measure or overthink. Just grab what you already have in your pantry or fridge, trust your taste buds, and let intuition take the lead. It all comes together in about 20 minutes. Quick, comforting, and delicious, no matter what kind of week you’ve had.
Kevin & Kate
Oaxacan Old Fashioned
Mascarpone Mushroom Pappardelle
notes from the kitchen
Just a few kitchen tips to make the most of this week's ingredients and flavors.
1. Vegetarian by Design
We’re going vegetarian this week with our Mascarpone Mushroom Pappardelle. It’s creamy, cozy, and satisfying all on its own, but if you’d like to add a protein, go for it. A few sliced pieces of ribeye, skirt steak, grilled chicken, or even sautéed shrimp would all pair beautifully with the sauce.
2. Mushroom Alternatives
Not a mushroom fan? No problem. This mascarpone cream sauce is incredibly versatile. Try swapping the mushrooms for asparagus, green peas, spinach, roasted red peppers, or even artichoke hearts. It’s a flexible base that works with almost anything you love.
3. Pasta Swaps
If you can’t find pappardelle, don’t worry — this creamy sauce works beautifully with other long noodles too. Tagliatelle, fettuccine, or even linguine will all do the trick. You can even try it with short shapes like rigatoni or penne if that’s what you have on hand.
4. Double It Up
This pasta reheats beautifully, so our leftover idea this week is simple: double the recipe. Most of your ingredients will already stretch far enough — just be sure to double the chicken broth, mascarpone, and garlic. If you end up a little light on mushrooms, that’s perfectly fine — it’ll still be delicious.
5. Finishing Touches
This dish is wonderful as is, but if you like to add a little flair, top it with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a touch of lemon zest. The brightness balances the richness of the sauce and adds just the right finishing note.
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we hope you enjoy this week. and as always,
Keep the Plates Full and the Spark Alive
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