Easy Marinated Mushrooms Recipe

Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Easy Marinated Mushrooms—perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or a topping for salads, pastas, or grilled meats. The mushrooms soak up the tangy marinade, becoming tender and infused with savory herbs and garlic. This recipe is quick to make, and the marinated mushrooms only get better as they sit, so it’s perfect for making ahead!

Easy Marinated Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (about 16 oz) fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or baby bella), cleaned and sliced or left whole
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a bit of tang)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mushrooms:
   • Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp paper towel or using a mushroom brush to remove any dirt. Slice the mushrooms if they’re large, or leave them whole if they’re small (baby bella or button mushrooms work well for this recipe).
2. Make the Marinade:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), oregano, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mustard will help emulsify the dressing, but it’s optional.
3. Marinate the Mushrooms:
   • Place the mushrooms in a large bowl or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms and toss gently to coat all the mushrooms evenly with the marinade.
4. Let It Marinate:
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though marinating for 4-6 hours (or even overnight) will allow the flavors to deepen and the mushrooms to absorb more of the marinade. The mushrooms will release some of their moisture during the marinating process, which enhances the flavor.
5. Serve:
   • After marinating, give the mushrooms a final toss and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these marinated mushrooms on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• As a Salad Topping: Add marinated mushrooms to a green salad, grain bowl, or pasta salad for extra flavor.
• On Grilled Meats: These mushrooms make a perfect topping for grilled steak, chicken, or fish.
• In Sandwiches: Add them to sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a savory kick.

Tips:

• Mushroom Types: You can use any variety of mushrooms you like—button, cremini, baby bella, or even portobello for a heartier option. The mushrooms should be fresh and firm, not slimy or shriveled.
• Make-Ahead: These marinated mushrooms taste even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. They’re a great make-ahead dish for parties or family gatherings.
• Storage: Store leftover marinated mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be served chilled or at room temperature.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs, like basil, tarragon, or dill, depending on your flavor preferences.

Customizations:

• Add-ons: You can add a bit of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the vinegar. If you prefer a creamier marinade, a bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream can be whisked into the dressing.
• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the marinade a spicier profile.
• Cheese: For a Mediterranean twist, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the marinated mushrooms before serving.

These Easy Marinated Mushrooms are a simple yet flavorful dish that can be served in many ways—whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a meal prep dish, or just craving a savory side. Enjoy!