Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Italian Mussels Marinara recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a vibrant dish bursting with fresh seafood flavors, a rich tomato sauce, and a touch of garlic and herbs. This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Mussels: Rinse the mussels thoroughly under cold running water, scrubbing away any dirt or debris. Discard any mussels that are open and don't close when tapped. Pull off the "beard" (the stringy part) from each mussel.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of delicious flavor in your marinara.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, white wine, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed, remembering that the mussels will add their own subtle brininess.
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Cook the Mussels: Add the prepared mussels to the simmering sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking.
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Serve: Serve the Italian Mussels Marinara immediately, spooning the flavorful sauce over the mussels. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce!
Cooking Tips for the Best Mussels Marinara:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh mussels is key to this recipe. They'll have a much better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked mussels will become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they open – this ensures they're perfectly tender.
- Wine Choice: A dry white wine works best in this recipe, adding a bright acidity that balances the richness of the tomatoes.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. If you like a spicier dish, feel free to add more.
Variations:
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Sausage: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the garlic and onions for a heartier, more substantial meal.
- Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of green.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy Italian Mussels Marinara recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can also be quick and simple. It’s a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a romantic meal for two. Enjoy!