Roasted Garlic Mushroom

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. While the oven is heating, clean your mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. If you prefer, you can also trim the stems to make them even. For larger mushrooms, such as portobellos, you may want to slice them into thicker pieces to ensure even roasting.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the **minced garlic**, **olive oil**, and **butter** (if using). Stir in the **dried thyme** (or rosemary), and season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. The garlic and herbs will infuse the mushrooms with flavor as they roast.

#### Step 3: Toss the Mushrooms
Place the cleaned mushrooms on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle the garlic and herb mixture over the mushrooms, making sure each piece is coated. Toss them gently with your hands or a spoon to evenly distribute the oil, garlic, and herbs.

#### Step 4: Roast the Mushrooms
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the mushrooms for **20-25 minutes** or until they are tender and golden brown. Give them a stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure they roast evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they are soft, juicy, and lightly caramelized on the edges.

#### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the mushrooms are roasted, remove them from the oven. For an extra pop of freshness, drizzle the mushrooms with a bit of **lemon juice** or sprinkle with **fresh chopped parsley**. Serve them hot as a side dish, on top of grilled meats, or mixed into your favorite pasta dish.

### Variations to Try

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. Here are a few ideas for making your roasted garlic mushrooms even more special:

– **Cheesy Roasted Garlic Mushrooms**: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or mozzarella over the mushrooms in the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy, gooey finish.
– **Balsamic Glaze**: Drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze over the mushrooms after roasting for a tangy-sweet contrast.
– **Spicy Kick**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and olive oil mixture if you like a bit of heat with your mushrooms.
– **Add Other Vegetables**: Roasted garlic mushrooms pair wonderfully with other roasted vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply toss them together and roast on the same sheet.
– **Stuffed Mushrooms**: Use this recipe as a base for stuffed mushrooms by filling larger mushroom caps with breadcrumbs, garlic, cheese, and herbs before roasting.

### Health Benefits of Mushrooms

Mushrooms are more than just delicious—they are also packed with health benefits. Here are a few reasons why they’re a great addition to your diet:

– **Rich in Antioxidants**: Mushrooms are high in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation.
– **Good Source of Fiber**: Mushrooms are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
– **Low in Calories**: Mushrooms are naturally low in calories, making them a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake.
– **Packed with Vitamins and Minerals**: Mushrooms are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, and potassium.

### Final Thoughts

Roasted garlic mushrooms are the perfect side dish for any meal, offering a savory, flavorful boost that complements a wide variety of foods. Whether you’re serving them with a juicy steak, tossing them into pasta, or simply enjoying them on their own, these mushrooms are sure to be a hit.

Thanks to their simple preparation, rich flavor, and numerous health benefits, roasted garlic mushrooms have become a beloved recipe in many kitchens. With Grandma’s time-tested advice, you can make this delicious dish in no time and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Try this easy recipe today, and you’ll see just why roasted garlic mushrooms are a true culinary delight!