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Mushroom Walnut Pate Recipe

4.7 from 110 reviews

This Mushroom Walnut Pate is a rich and savory spread made from sautéed cremini mushrooms and red onions combined with toasted walnuts and aromatic herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this smooth and creamy pate is both flavorful and nutritious, making it an excellent alternative to traditional meat-based spreads.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup red onion, chopped
  • 2.5 cups cremini mushrooms, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup walnuts, toasted and unsalted
  • 2 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped red onions, cremini mushrooms, and olive oil to a pan. Cook over medium heat until the onions and mushrooms soften and begin to caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness and developing deep flavors.
  2. Deglaze and Add Aromatics: Pour in the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits off the bottom. Add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors and fully soften the garlic and herbs.
  3. Cool the Mixture: Remove the pan from heat and allow the mushroom and onion mixture to cool slightly so it doesn’t overheat the food processor during blending.
  4. Blend the Pate: Transfer the cooled mushroom mixture to a food processor. Add toasted walnuts, fresh parsley, white miso paste, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth and spreadable consistency. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.
  5. Season to Taste and Serve: Taste the pate and adjust seasoning by adding salt or any preferred ingredient if needed. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator. The pate is best served between cold and room temperature.

Notes

  • To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
  • Allowing the mixture to cool before blending prevents the pate from becoming too warm and ensures better texture.
  • You can substitute cremini mushrooms with button mushrooms if unavailable.
  • The pate keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Serving suggestion: Enjoy with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.

Keywords: mushroom pate, walnut spread, vegetarian appetizer, easy mushroom recipe, vegan spread alternative