Here’s a delicious and Weight Watchers (WW) friendly recipe for Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms that makes for a perfect side dish or a tasty snack. These mushrooms are sautéed to perfection with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a savory and satisfying dish that’s low in points but big on flavor. This recipe highlights the natural umami of mushrooms while keeping it simple and healthy.
WW Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb baby Bella or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Begin by cleaning the mushrooms. Wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt and trim the stems if necessary. You can leave them whole or slice them in half if they are large.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the cleaned mushrooms to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic oil to coat evenly. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and have released their moisture.
- Season the Mushrooms: Sprinkle the sautéed mushrooms with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mushrooms while they are still hot. Toss gently to ensure the cheese coats the mushrooms evenly. The heat from the mushrooms will melt the cheese slightly, creating a deliciously cheesy coating.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: If desired, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mushrooms for a bright, zesty finish. Add the chopped parsley and toss again to incorporate.
- Serve: Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms to a serving dish and enjoy them warm. They make a wonderful side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for pasta or salads.
WW Points: These Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms are approximately 3-4 points per serving (about 1 cup), depending on the exact amount of olive oil and cheese used. To get the most accurate points, you can input your specific ingredients into the WW recipe builder.
These Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms are an incredibly flavorful addition to any meal, offering a rich taste without a lot of extra calories. They’re quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and they can elevate any dish with their savory, cheesy goodness. Enjoy this healthy yet indulgent side dish guilt-free!