This post may include affiliate links. Thank you for your support.

These homemade marinated mushrooms are effortless to prepare and taste a million times better than the store-bought variety! Featuring fresh mushrooms marinated in a delectable mixture of extra virgin olive oil and vinegar flavored with garlic, shallots, fresh herbs and Italian seasonings. Fair warning, these tender, seasoned ‘shrooms are absurdly delicious and always disappear in a matter of minutes at a party!  

Featured comment: Best recipe ever for marinated mushrooms! There are many recipes that I have made and this one is definitely easy and best tasting.” – Carla

You can enjoy these mushrooms as an easy snack and fuss-free appetizer! Or, add them to antipasto platters, salads, pizzas, pastas and more!! Continue to read on for helpful recipe tips and step by step photos in the post!

Overhead photo of homemade marinated mushrooms garnished with fresh parsley in a large white serving bowl with slices of artisan bread and a ramekin of fresh thyme next to the bowl.

If you love mushrooms, I have the perfect easy, no-fuss recipe for you! Seriously, you are going to weep tears of joy over these bite-sized beauties!! And, you absolutely won’t believe how insanely simple they are to prepare! One bite of these meaty mushrooms and you will never go back to overpaying at the deli counter again!

Table of Contents

About this easy marinated mushrooms recipe

These mushrooms are savory, succulent and so delicious! But, the best part of all? They are fool-proof! This recipe for mushroom marination requires minimal effort, a few pantry staples and just 15 minutes to prepare!!

Tender, meaty mushrooms are marinated in a robust mixture of extra virgin olive oil and vinegars. Flavored with pungent garlic, delicate shallots, fragrant Italian seasonings, earthy bay leaves, herbaceous fresh herbs and a touch of fiery red pepper flakes, these mushrooms are addictively delicious!!

These silky mushrooms in marinade make a wonderful addition to antipasto platters, salads, pastas, burgers and more! Plus, they are a delicious snack to leave out for guests during parties! Or, you can give them as a homemade gift during the holidays! However, they are so darn good, you will probably just be popping them like candy straight from the jar!

Store-bought deli mushrooms are expensive and lackluster in taste. So, why overpay when you can easily make your own at home!?

What is a marinated mushroom?

Marinated mushrooms, also known as seasoned or pickled mushrooms, are the perfect snack, appetizer or pantry staple! They are made by soaking fresh mushrooms in a zesty, flavorful marinade of extra virgin olive oil and vinegar along with various seasonings and spices.

These marinated mushrooms are not fermented. The kosher salt and acid (vinegars) in the marinade serve to flavor the mushrooms only. They do not stimulate microbe growth which causes fermentation, nor does it preserve the mushrooms. 

Ingredients for mushroom marination

You don’t need any fancy variety of mushrooms or an extensive list of ingredients to prepare delicious Italian mushrooms from the comfort of your own home!

  • Mushrooms: You can use any variety of fresh ‘shrooms you love for marination. (See below for a list of mushrooms you can marinate.)
  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the richest flavor.
  • Vinegars: I use a combination of white wine and red wine vinegar in this mushroom marinade. However, you can use sherry and apple cider vinegar as well.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a distinctive, punchy taste.
  • Shallot: Finely dice shallot provides a delicate, soft onion flavor.
  • Herbs: Fresh herbs add ample herbaceous flavor. I use fresh thyme and parsley. However, oregano and tarragon are also fantastic! (Make sure you’re storing your herb properly!)
  • Bay Leaf: Dried bay leaves add a subtle herbal flavor.
  • Seasonings: Crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper provide plenty of flavor to these seasoned mushrooms!

Overhead photo of the produce ingredients needed to marinate mushrooms at home.

FAQs: marinating mushrooms

What mushrooms are best for marinating?

The most popular varieties of mushrooms for marination include white button and cremini mushrooms. However, you can marinate any variety of fresh ‘shrooms you love. Or, feel free to mix things up and use a combination of mushrooms!

  • Cremini (baby bella)
  • White Button
  • Portobello
  • Enoki

If you select a larger variety for marination, such as portobello mushrooms, I recommend halving or quartering them before marinating.

Regardless of the variety of fresh mushrooms you select, make sure you clean and de-stem the mushrooms before proceeding with the recipe.

Is a marinated mushroom cooked?

Fresh mushrooms can be raw or cooked prior to marination. The most common ways to cook mushrooms for marinating includes sautéing, boiling and poaching.

You can use raw mushrooms in this mushroom marinade recipe, or you can gently poach them! I’ve included instructions for both in the recipe below! However, it is worth noting that raw marinated mushrooms require at least 24 hours of refrigeration while cooked mushrooms can be enjoyed right away!

Can mushrooms marinate overnight?

You can marinate mushrooms in advance! While mushrooms can be enjoyed after just 5 minutes of marination, they are even better the longer they remain in the marinade! For the best taste and texture, allow mushrooms to marinate for at least 8 hours.

Are seasoned mushrooms good for you?

Mushrooms pack a nutritional punch and are considered a superfood! They’re a naturally fat-free, low-sodium, low-calorie and cholesterol-free food. They are also loaded with fiber, vitamins and minerals. Plus, they are a good source of antioxidants and promote a healthy immune system and boost your bone health.

This homemade recipe for mushroom marinade is gluten-free, grain-free, vegetarian, vegan, paleo, whole30, Keto, low-carb and dairy-free!

Angled photo of an Italian marinade being poured over poached mushrooms in a white bowl.

How to marinate mushrooms at home

This Italian deli-style mushroom recipe is so simple and foolproof, yet produces incredibly flavorful mushrooms! Mushroom marination requires minimal effort, a few staple ingredients and just 15 minutes!

  1. Poach Mushrooms (optional): Fill a saucepan with 5 cups of water. Add garlic, thyme and bay leaf. Bring the water to a rapid simmer. Season water with salt. Add the mushroom caps and gently simmer until the mushrooms are just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Remove pan from heat and drain mushrooms.
  2. Make Marinade: In a large, non-reactive bowl, combine marinade ingredients. Whisk to thoroughly combine. Add the mushrooms and gently stir to coat. Taste the marinade and adjust for seasoning if desired.
  3. Marinate in fridge: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 5 minutes (or up to 10 days), stirring the mushrooms occasionally. For the best taste, I recommend allowing the mushrooms to marinate for at least 8 hours. If you use raw mushrooms, allow them to marinate for 24 hours.
  4. Serve: Remove mushrooms from refrigerator. Taste again and adjust for seasoning if needed. Bring mushrooms to room temperature before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

Step-by-step photos: making marinated mushroom recipe 

(Scroll down for the detailed measurements and instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.)

Overhead photo collage of how to make marinated mushrooms step by step with written instructions on each step.

Storing this recipe for marinated mushrooms

How long does a marinated mushroom last?

Store marinated mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, mushrooms will keep for up to 10 days.

Can you freeze a mushroom marinade?

Unfortunately mushrooms in a marinade do not freeze well. But, you can freeze the poached mushrooms with Italian spices. However, please note that freezing any food will affect the flavors, color, and nutritional value – mushrooms included.

To freeze this marinated mushroom recipe

  1. Poach: Gently simmer mushrooms in poaching liquid until just tender.
  2. Drain: Remove pan from heat and drain mushrooms.
  3. Cool: Transfer the mushrooms to a paper towel lined plate and allow to cool.
  4. Flash freeze: Spread the mushrooms out in an even layer on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Place the cookie sheet in the freezer and flash freeze for 30 minutes.
  5. Store: Remove the mushrooms from the freezer and transfer them to a freezer-safe resealable bag. Add the shallots, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. Gently shake the bag to evenly distribute seasonings. Seal bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
  6. To use: Thaw the mushrooms in the refrigerator for 24 hours before using. Transfer the mushrooms to a non-reactive bowl and add the remaining marinade ingredients.

Overhead close-up photo of cremini mushrooms in an Italian marinade.

What to eat with mushrooms marinated?

These deeply flavorful mushrooms are so delicious you can enjoy them straight from the jar! Or they make the perfect meaty mushroom side dish to your favorite soup recipes, like homemade tomato soups, Italian sausage soups, chickpea soups, and tortellini soups.However, they also add an instant boost of delicious flavor to salads, pastas, pizza, dips and more. You will be amazed at how many different ways you can serve this marinated mushroom recipe!

12 things to do with seasoned mushroom

  • Appetizer or Snack: Add mushrooms to a serving bowl with plenty of toothpicks and napkins.
  • Antipasto platter: Use them as part of an antipasto platter with Italian meats, cheeses, and olives.
  • Tapenade: Finely chop the mushrooms and transform them into a tapenade for bread, chicken and beef.
  • Crostini: Slather toasted crusty artisan bread with soft cheese and top with mushrooms for an easy, yet elevated appetizer.
  • Hummus: Dollop on top of your favorite hummus recipes or hummus bowls and serve with pita bread toasted.
  • Eggs and Omelets: Stir them into omelets and scrambled eggs.
  • Salads and Grain Bowls: Scatter mushrooms on top of salads and grain bowls for a pop of texture and flavor.
  • Pasta Salads and Pastas: Stir mushrooms into your favorite vinaigrette-based pasta salads. Or top your favorite buttery noodle with plenty of parmesan and a heaping pile of ‘shrooms.
  • Pizza: Pat mushrooms dry, give them a rough chop and sprinkle them on pizza prior to baking.
  • Tacos and Fajitas: Thinly slice some ‘shrooms and stuff them in your favorite vegetarian taco recipes and fajita recipes.
  • Burgers: Slice mushrooms and use them as a topping for your favorite burgers and sandwiches!
  • Quick Gratin: Transform seasoned mushrooms into a gratin! Pat the mushrooms dry and add them to a baking dish. Sprinkle with Gruyère or parmesan and breadcrumbs. Bake at 400 degrees until the cheese melts and the mushrooms are warmed through.
  • Accompaniment to protein: Serve this marinated mushroom recipe as a side dish for beef, chicken, tofu, pork and lamb!

Angled close-up photo of mushrooms in a homemade marinade.

Forget overpaying for jarred mushrooms in oil and make these easy marinated mushrooms instead! They are meaty, tender, insanely flavorful and impossible to resist!

If you’re looking to marinate more fresh veggies, try this tomato marinade next!

Craving MORE? Follow all the deliciousness on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram!

Overhead photo of marinated mushrooms on a piece of toasted baguette with goat cheese - photo of how to use marinated mushrooms.

More fresh mushroom recipes!

If you love this recipe for marinating mushrooms, try one of these delicious recipes next:

The best marinated mushroom recipe👇

Overhead landscape photo of homemade marinated mushrooms garnished with fresh parsley in a large white serving bowl with slices of artisan bread and a ramekin of fresh thyme next to the bowl.

Easy Marinated Mushrooms Recipe

4.77 from 13 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 5
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
These homemade marinated mushrooms are so simple to prepare and taste a million times better than the store-bought variety! Tender mushrooms are marinated in a delectable mixture of extra virgin olive oil and vinegar flavored with garlic, shallots, fresh herbs and Italian seasonings. They are dangerously addictive and will disappear in a matter of minutes!
Recipe can be scaled up or down by using the slider if you hover your mouse over the number of Servings.

Equipment

  • Medium-sized Saucepan (optional)
  • Large, Non-Reactive Mixing Bowl

Ingredients 

  • 12-16 ounces Cremini Mushrooms – cleaned & stems removed (SEE NOTES)
  • 4 large cloves Garlic – peeled & DIVIDED (2 cloves smashed; 2 cloves minced)
  • 6 sprigs Fresh Thyme + 1 tsp chopped leaves - DIVIDED
  • 2 Bay Leaves - DIVIDED
  • ¼ cup Finely Diced Shallot
  • ¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 TBS Each: White Wine Vinegar & Red Wine Vinegar
  • ¾ tsp Italian Seasoning
  • Kosher Salt & Fresh Ground Black Pepper
  • ¼-½ tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – adjust to taste
  • 1 1/2 tsp finely chopped Flat-leaf Parsley Leaves - plus more for garnish

Instructions

  • Poach Mushrooms: Fill a deep, medium-sized saucepan with 4-5 cups of water. Add the smashed garlic, thyme sprigs and 1 bay leaf. Bring the water to a rapid simmer. Season water with ½ teaspoon salt. Add the mushroom caps and return to a gentle simmer. Cook, reducing heat as needed to maintain a gently simmer, until the mushrooms are just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Remove pan from heat and drain mushrooms well.
  • Prepare Marinade while mushrooms are poaching: In a large, non-reactive (non-metallic) bowl, add the minced garlic, remaining bay leaf, shallot, oil, both vinegars, Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, and parsley. Whisk to thoroughly combine.
  • Marinate in fridge: While the mushrooms are still warm, add them to the marinade (SEE NOTES). Gently stir to combine and coat. Taste the marinade and adjust for seasoning if desired. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 5 minutes (or up to 10 days), stirring the mushrooms occasionally. For the best taste, I recommend allowing the mushrooms to marinate for at least 8 hours.
  • Serve: Remove mushrooms from refrigerator. Taste again and adjust for seasoning if needed. Bring mushrooms to room temperature before serving. Garnish with more chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Mushrooms: You can use any variety of mushrooms you love! Cremini, white button, portobello or enoki. If you select a larger variety, such as portobello mushrooms, I recommend halving or quartering them before marinating. Regardless of the variety of fresh mushrooms you select, make sure you clean and destem the mushrooms before proceeding with the recipe.
  2. Raw mushrooms: Poaching the mushrooms is recommended, but not required! You can use raw mushrooms if you like! Just make sure you properly clean and destem them. Skip the first step of the recipe and then prepare the recipe as directed. Allow the raw mushrooms to marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator before enjoying.
  3. Marinade: Make sure you add the mushrooms to the marinade while they are still warm (if you poached mushrooms)! They will soak up the most flavor that way!
Nutritional information is an approximation based upon 5 servings (roughly 5 mushrooms per serving).  Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 126kcal    Carbohydrates: 6g    Protein: 2g    Fat: 11g    Saturated Fat: 2g    Sodium: 8mg    Potassium: 361mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 2g    Vitamin A: 87IU    Vitamin C: 4mg    Calcium: 30mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian

Did you make this recipe?

Mention @nospoonnecessary on Instagram and tag it #nospoonnecessary!

©No Spoon Necessary.  All images and content protected by copyrights. Please do not use any images without prior permission. Please do not publish this recipe without prior consent. To reference this recipe, please link directly to this post.