7 Dishes Featuring Our Secret Ingredient — Mushrooms

"When I was growing up, my dad would make tacos once a week, and taco salad is still one of my favorite dinners. Using mushrooms in the mix is a great way to lighten it up."

—Jessica D'Ambrosio, recipe tester

"These kebabs are traditionally made with ground lamb or beef, and they're loaded with meaty, juicy flavor. In this version, rich oyster mushrooms add even more flavor and juiciness."

—Steve Jackson, test kitchen director

"My teenage son, Eli, is a huge cheeseburger fan, so I try to channel those flavors into other dishes. I love that I can add a vegetable to the mix by using mushrooms!"

—Amy Stevenson, recipe developer

"Mushrooms are perfect in a stuffed pepper: They add umami, like meat, and they also enhance the flavor of the dish. It's a win-win!"

—Khalil Hymore, recipe developer

"A perfect meatball has great flavor and balanced texture. Shiitakes add depth and complexity—plus they make the meatballs more tender."

—Richmond Flores, recipe developer

"I love picadillo because it's full of bright contrasting flavors: sweet raisins, salty-briny olives. Swapping in mushrooms for some of the beef lightens the dish without compromising the taste!"

—Melissa Gaman, recipe developer