Recipe Intro

Shimeji Mushroom Pesto Penne is a quick and flavourful pasta recipe made with fresh White Shimeji mushrooms, basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan and herbs. The mushrooms add a savoury bite and firm texture to creamy pesto-coated penne, making this an easy vegetarian meal for lunch or dinner. Ready with a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe is a convenient way to add fresh Shimeji mushrooms to an everyday pasta dish.

Serves - 2
Prep Time - 20 min

Ingredients

Olive Oil - 1 tsp

Rosemary - ¼ tsp

Madras Onion/Shallots, finely chopped - 2 tsp

Garlic - ½ tsp

White Shimeji - a bunch

Cherry Tomatoes, halved - 4 pc

Pasta, boiled al dente - 2 cups

Pesto - ¼ cup

Parmesan, grated - 2 tbsp

Parsley, finely chopped - 1 tsp

Butter - 1 tsp

Method

Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the rosemary until fragrant. Add the shallots and garlic, cooking until they are translucent and aromatic. 

Stir in the white Shimeji mushrooms, cooking until they soften and release their juices, then add the cherry tomatoes and sauté briefly.

Toss in the boiled pasta, mixing well to combine, and stir in the pesto to coat the pasta evenly.    
  

Add butter for a glossy finish, then sprinkle grated Parmesan and chopped parsley and toss quickly till the parmesan melts.

Garnish with Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and a sprig of parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

FAQ's

What are Shimeji Mushrooms?

Shimeji mushrooms are a group of edible mushrooms known for their firm texture and savoury, nutty flavour. Shroomery's White Shimeji is also known as White Beech or Bunapi-shimeji.

Can I use Shimeji Mushrooms in pasta?

Yes. Their firm texture and savoury flavour work well in pasta dishes, including this pesto penne recipe.

How do you cook Shimeji Mushrooms?

They can be sautéed or stir-fried. Shroomery recommends around 3–4 minutes for its White Shimeji product.

What do Shimeji Mushrooms taste like?

They have a mild nutty, savoury flavour and a firm texture.

Can I use Brown Shimeji instead of White Shimeji?

Potentially, yes. The recipe specifically uses White Shimeji, so the final texture and flavour may differ if Brown Shimeji is substituted.

What pasta works best with Shimeji Mushrooms?

Penne works well because its shape holds pesto and the mushroom pieces, but other short pasta shapes can also be used.

What can I serve with Shimeji Pesto Pasta?

A simple salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread or another light side can complement the pasta.

More Shimeji Mushroom Recipes

• Butter Garlic Shimeji
• Shimeji Ramen Bowl
• Shimeji Tacos