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Mussels Marinara

Mussels Marinara recipe image
This classic Italian dish transforms humble mussels into an elegant meal with a vibrant marinara sauce. Fresh mussels are steamed in a fragrant blend of garlic, olive oil, and dry red wine, then finished with ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs. The result is a briny, savory, and slightly sweet dish where the delicate seafood shines through the robust sauce. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for a romantic dinner or a lively weeknight feast. Serve immediately over crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth. The combination of sweet tomatoes, acidic wine, and umami-rich mussels creates a balanced and deeply satisfying experience that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
Cooking Method: , ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 2
Calories: 260.7
Dietary: Gluten-free
Description
This classic Italian dish transforms humble mussels into an elegant meal with a vibrant marinara sauce. Fresh mussels are steamed in a fragrant blend of garlic, olive oil, and dry red wine, then finished with ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs. The result is a briny, savory, and slightly sweet dish where the delicate seafood shines through the robust sauce. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for a romantic dinner or a lively weeknight feast. Serve immediately over crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth. The combination of sweet tomatoes, acidic wine, and umami-rich mussels creates a balanced and deeply satisfying experience that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients
  • 2 pound Mussels
  • 2 pound Tomato
  • 1/2 cup Red wine
Directions
  1. 1
    Scrub mussels under cold running water and remove any beards or debris; discard any mussels with broken shells or those that do not close when tapped.
  2. 2
    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  4. 4
    Add chopped onions, mushrooms, and green peppers if available, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  5. 5
    Stir in fresh basil leaves, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
  6. 6
    Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  7. 7
    Add the peeled tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon or your hands.
  8. 8
    Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes to reduce slightly.
  9. 9
    Add the cleaned mussels to the pot and cover tightly with a lid.
  10. 10
    Steam the mussels for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until all shells have opened.
  11. 11
    Discard any mussels that remain closed.
  12. 12
    Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and additional herbs if needed.
  13. 13
    Serve immediately in deep bowls with crusty bread for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 260.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5.4g9%
Saturated Fat 0.9g5%
Cholesterol 97.6mg33%
Sodium 132.9mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 18.0g6%
Dietary Fiber 2.7g11%
Sugars 7.7g
Protein 29.3g59%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Safety First: Always discard mussels that do not open during cooking, as they may be unsafe to eat.

Ingredient Prep: Ensure mussels are thoroughly cleaned to avoid grit in the sauce. Soaking in cold water for 20 minutes can help remove sand.

Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or white wine. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a simple dark green salad and a glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir for a complete Italian dining experience.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

Variations: Add white wine instead of red for a lighter sauce, or include clams for a mixed seafood pot.

Keywords: mussels, marinara, seafood, italian, tomato, red wine, garlic, olive oil, herbs, steamed, dinner, quick, easy, romantic, briny, garlicky, shellfish, fresh, homemade, comfort food
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/mussels-marinara/