Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coastal regions of Italy with just one bite. Our Mussels in Red Sauce is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that combines the briny freshness of perfectly cooked mussels with a rich, spicy tomato sauce that will have you craving more. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and bring a touch of Mediterranean magic to your table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Mussels
- Tomato sauce
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes
- Parsley
- Olive oil
- White wine
Instructions
- Begin by cleaning the mussels. Rinse them under cold running water, scrubbing the shells with a brush to remove any dirt or debris. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot, adjusting the amount to your preferred spice level. Stir for about 30 seconds to release the flavors.
- Pour in 1 cup of white wine and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate and the flavors meld.
- Add 2 cups of tomato sauce to the pot, stirring well to combine with the garlic and wine mixture. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Carefully add the cleaned mussels to the pot, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mussels steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until they have opened up. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
- Once the mussels are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in a handful of freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
- Serve the mussels in bowls with plenty of the red sauce. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with more parsley if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
Tips
- Mussel Selection: Always buy fresh mussels from a reputable fishmonger. Look for tightly closed shells and a fresh, ocean-like smell.
- Cleaning is Crucial: Thoroughly clean mussels under cold running water and remove any "beard" (stringy bits). Tap any open mussels - if they don't close, discard them immediately.
- Don't Overcook: Mussels cook quickly. Once they open, they're done. Overcooked mussels become tough and rubbery.
- Wine Matters: Use a dry white wine you'd actually enjoy drinking. The flavor concentrates during cooking.
- Spice Control: Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A crisp white wine pairs perfectly with this dish.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh parsley for the best flavor. Dried herbs won't give the same vibrant taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg
