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    Funghi Trifolati – Sautéed Mushrooms with Parsley

    Published: Aug 31, 2023 by Cheryl Whyte · Leave a Comment

    23 shares
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    Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. You can read my full disclaimer here.

    This sautéed mushroom side dish is based on an Italian classic, Funghi Trifolati. It’s so easy to make and ridiculously tasty! It can be enjoyed on its own, as a pasta sauce, stirred into a risotto, loaded onto toasted bread or polenta, or as a side dish to accompany meat and vegetable dishes. 

    Funghi Trifolati in a white bowl with a fork on a grey background. this RECIPE

    So, what does ‘Funghi Trifolati’ mean in English? ‘Trifolati’ is the plural of ‘Trifolato,’ the Italian way of saying thinly sliced meat fried with garlic and parsley. In this recipe, we use ‘funghi,’ which means mushrooms. So, ‘Funghi Trifolati’ refers to thinly sliced mushrooms, fried with garlic and parsley, Italian-style.

    Funhgi Trifolati can also mean truffled mushrooms. [Source] This stems from the idea that thinly sliced mushrooms, resemble the prized truffle.

    In this dish, we borrow the classic flavors of the traditional recipe but elevates them a smoosh without becoming complicated. 

    Looking for more side dishes that are easy to prepare? Try this Fresh Tomato Salad, Creamy Purple Slaw, Cauliflower Mash, or Tomato Bruschetta next time.

    Jump to:
    • Why You’ll Love It
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Tops Tips
    • Substitutions
    • Variations
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Storage
    • FAQs
    • More Mushroom Recipes
    • Recipe

    Why You’ll Love It

    • Depending on the mushrooms you choose, this dish is low cost, only requiring a few simple ingredients.  
    • Despite its simplicity, the flavors are out-of-this-world delicious. 
    • It comes together in no time, making it one of those versatile vegetable dishes you won’t mind cooking alongside an easy weeknight meal. It’s the perfect side dish. 
    • It’s gluten-free and nut-free for those with allergies. And it’s keto-friendly, vegetarian, and contains no added sugar for those following certain lifestyles.
    • Mushrooms are loaded with nutrients! They are one of the few plant-based sources of vitamin D, a good source of fiber, and they contain a variety of beneficial vitamins and minerals. [Source]

    Ingredients

    Any ingredients you add to this Funghi Trifolati recipe other than mushrooms, olive oil, parsley, and garlic are optional but recommended. Trust me, they’re worthy additions. 

    Ingredients for funghi trifolati.
    • Fresh mushrooms: The stars of the dish, packed with rich umami flavor! I’m using a selection pack of exotic mushrooms for different flavors and textures. There are some oyster mushrooms, enoki, shiitake, and cremini mushrooms. I’m also throwing in some button mushrooms for good measure. However, you can use whatever type of mushrooms you love or that are available. Use one kind or multiple. It’s up to you!
    • Garlic Cloves: Mushrooms and garlic are the best of friends.
    • Fresh Parsley and Rosemary: Chopped parsley is the classic choice. Still, I also like to add finely chopped rosemary for extra flavor. 
    • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: As the mushrooms absorb the rich and fruity goodness, use good quality olive oil. 
    • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat.
    • Fresh Lemon Juice: For brightness. 
    • Sea Salt Flakes and Black Pepper: Makes all the flavors pop!
    • Butter: Completely optional. Adding a knob of butter right at the end of cooking provides extra richness and a glossy finish.

    Instructions

    This mushroom lovers dish can be ready in less than 15 minutes with some really simple ingredients. Check it out in six easy steps.

    These visual step-by-step instructions provide a quick overview of the recipe. You can find the recipe card with the full list of ingredients and detailed recipe instructions at the bottom of this page. ⇩

    Mixed mushrooms added to a frying pan of hot olive oil.

    1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the mushrooms and rosemary and sauté until the mushrooms are tender and golden.

    Caramelized mushrooms moved to the side of the pan so the garlic can cook in the center.

    2: Move the mushrooms aside, add the garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

    3: Mix the sautéed garlic with the mushrooms.

    Parsley, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper are added to mushrooms sautéing in a pan, and mixed with a wooden spoon.

    4: Add the parsley and red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper.

    Mushrooms sautéing in a pan with a knob of butter and a wooden spoon.

    5: Add a small knob of butter and let it melt into the mushrooms (optional).

    Funghi Trifolati in a white bowl on a grey background.

    6: Serve and enjoy!

    Tops Tips

    • Get ahead: Buying prepared mushrooms that have been pre-cleaned and sliced can save you some time with prep. 
    • Cleaning mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms using a damp cloth or kitchen towel to remove any dirt. Avoid soaking them in water, as they’ll absorb excessive moisture and turn soggy.
    • Use a large sauté pan: Give the mushrooms enough room to brown and caramelize. You may need to do this in batches, as overcrowding the pan will cause the mushrooms to steam, become mushy, and turn grey. 
    • Patience pays off: Let those mushrooms brown and caramelize—don’t rush the magic.
    • Taste test: Remember to taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. 

    Substitutions

    • Types of Mushrooms: You could use wild mushrooms like Chanterelle or porcini instead of exotic mushrooms. Although I find them hard to get hold of here in the UK. Button or cup mushrooms are what I tend to use most often, as they’re readily available year-round.
    • Lemon: Instead of lemon, you could use a splash of white wine to brighten the dish. 

    Variations

    • Creamy Funghi Trifolati: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone for a velvety twist.
    • Dried Mushroom Trifolati: While the texture and flavor will differ slightly from fresh mushrooms, dried mushrooms have a more intense flavor, which you may prefer. Just allow time to rehydrate your dried mushrooms.
    • Vegan Trifolati: This dish can be made vegan by omitting the butter or using a knob of vegan butter instead.

    Serving Suggestions

    There are so many ways to serve Funghi Trifolati. Here are just some ideas you can try:

    • Side Dish: Serve as a light side dish alongside your main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, fish, and roasted vegetables.
    • Pasta or Risotto: It makes an excellent mushroom sauce for cooked pasta and a great topping for a creamy risotto. 
    • Toasted Bread: Load onto a toasted baguette or a slice of rustic bread for a twist on Tomato Bruschetta. It’s a fantastic appetizer for a casual gathering or as a snack.
    • Eggs: Fold into an omelet (omelette) or scrambled eggs to create a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch.
    • Whole Grains: Combine with cooked quinoa, brown rice, or other whole grains.
    • Pizza: Use as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza. 
    • Wraps and Sandwiches: Fill wraps or sandwiches, along with other ingredients like greens, cheese, and grilled vegetables.
    • Salad Garnish: Add a scoop to your salad for extra flavor and texture. It works well in both warm and cold salads.
    • Stuffed Vegetables: It makes a tasty filling for bell peppers, zucchini (courgette), eggplant (aubergine), or portobello mushrooms.
    • Polenta: Serve over creamy polenta for a comforting and hearty dinner.
    Funghi Trifolati piled onto a slice of toasted seeded bread that contains cream cheese.

    Storage

    • Fridge: Cool any leftovers to room temperature, seal them in an airtight container, and pop them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. 
    • Freezing: Once cooked, cool the mushrooms to room temperature, put them in an airtight freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid the mushrooms clumping together, spread them into a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour before transferring them to an airtight freezer bag. This makes them easy to portion out when you need them.
    • Reheating: Gently reheat the garlic mushrooms in a skillet over low heat. A drizzle of olive oil can bring back the fresh flavor.
    Close up of Funghi Trifolati.

    FAQs

    Can I make Funghi Trifolati in advance?

    You can prepare the sautéed mushrooms in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.

    Can I adjust the garlic and parsley amounts to my taste?

    ​​Absolutely! The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. You can change the quantities of garlic and parsley based on your preferences.

    Can I use sunflower oil instead of extra virgin olive oil? 

    Sure! Extra virgin olive oil is my preferred choice due to its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and associated health benefits. It has a more favorable balance of fatty acids and contains compounds linked to reduced inflammation and improved cardiovascular health. [Source] Whereas sunflower oil is higher in omega-6 fatty acids, which in excess can lead to an imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio associated with potential health issues. [Source] Remember, moderation is key, as with any dietary choice.

    More Mushroom Recipes

    Looking for more delicious and nutritious recipes that are loaded with mushrooms? Try these recipes next…

    • chicken chasseur with cauliflower mash
      Chicken Chasseur (Instant Pot Recipe)
    • Creamy chorizo pasta recipe served on an oval fluted platter, with a silver serving spoon.
      Creamy Chorizo Pasta Recipe
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      Healthy Spaghetti Carbonara
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    Tried this Recipe? Please leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating below, and/or leave a comment. To stay in touch, SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter or follow along on social media at INSTAGRAM, PINTEREST, and FACEBOOK. I can’t wait to virtually meet you!

    Recipe

    Funghi Trifolati in a white bowl with a fork on a grey background.

    Funghi Trifolati – Sautéed Mushrooms with Parsley

    Author: Cheryl Whyte
    This sautéed mushroom side dish is based on an Italian classic, Funghi Trifolati. It’s so easy to make and ridiculously tasty! It can be enjoyed on its own, as a pasta sauce, stirred into a risotto, loaded onto toasted bread to soak up the juices, or as a side dish to accompany meat dishes or polenta. 

    If you love this recipe, rate it with 5 stars below!

    5 from 2 votes
    PRINT PIN RATE
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 231kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Equipment

    • Cutting Board
    • Sharp Knife
    • Garlic Press, alternatively, finely chop with a sharp knife
    • Large Frying Pan, or skillet
    • Kitchen Spatula, or wooden spoon

    Ingredients
     

    • 1 pound (450 grams) mixed mushrooms, wiped clean, and sliced
    • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
    • 1 large clove garlic, crushed
    • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
    • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (red chilli flakes), (optional)
    • ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes
    • ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon butter, (optional)
    • ½ lemon, juice only (optional)

    Instructions
     

    • Prepare: Gather and prepare your ingredients. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove dirt, then slice them to your preferred thickness. It's best not to cut them too thin so they retain a nice texture after cooking.
    • Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet in a single layer. If your skillet isn't large enough, you might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the mushrooms. Add the rosemary. Let the mushrooms cook without stirring for a few minutes until they start to brown on the bottom. This will help develop their flavor. Then, stir and sauté until they're tender and golden for about 5-7 minutes. If you've cooked the mushrooms in batches, add them all back into the pan.
    • Add Garlic: Push the mushrooms to the sides of the skillet, creating a space in the center. Add the minced garlic to the center of the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Mix the sautéed garlic with the mushrooms.
    • Season: Stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that mushrooms absorb flavors well, so start with a little salt and adjust as needed.
    • Finish with Butter: If using butter, you can add it at this point for extra richness. Stir until it melts and coats the mushrooms. Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the lemon juice over the mushrooms. The lemon juice will add a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Give everything a final stir to combine.
    • Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Funghi Trifolati to a serving dish, and enjoy!

    Notes

    Serving Suggestions: You can serve this dish as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a topping for pasta, rice, or toasted bread.
    Storage Instructions: 
    • Fridge: Cool any leftovers to room temperature, seal in an airtight container, and refrigerate for 2-3 days. 
    • Freezing: Once cooked, cool the mushrooms to room temperature, put them in an airtight freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid the mushrooms clumping together, spread them out into a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour before transferring them to an airtight freezer bag. 
    • Reheating: Gently reheat the garlic mushrooms in a skillet over low heat. A drizzle of olive oil can bring back the fresh flavor.

    Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

    Calories: 231kcal (12%) | Carbohydrates: 19g (6%) | Protein: 6g (12%) | Fat: 17g (26%) | Saturated Fat: 3g (19%) | Cholesterol: 5mg (2%) | Sodium: 334mg (15%) | Fiber: 7g (29%) | Sugar: 6g (7%)

    Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated using an online nutrition calculator. For accuracy, we recommend you calculate using the exact ingredients and brands you used.

    Course | Sides, Snacks
    Cuisine | Italian
    Keyword | garlic mushrooms, mushroom recipes, side dishes
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE? Share a photo and tag @therealfoodgeek so I can see all your delicious creations!

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    Hey, I'm Cheryl, The Real Food Geek! I'm all about delicious and nutritious recipes fueled by my love for food, weight loss journey, and expertise as a certified culinary medicine coach. Let's make healthy eating enjoyable by returning to basics in the kitchen and embracing the joy of real food.

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    23 shares
    Funghi Trifolati piled onto a slice of toasted seeded bread.
    Funghi Trifolati in a white bowl with a fork.
    Funghi Trifolati piled onto a slice of toasted seeded bread.
    Two slices of bread with a cream cheese spread topped with Funghi Trifolati and a sprinkle of parsley.