Dive into a culinary adventure with our delightful "Steamed Mussels in Tomato Sauce" recipe! This Italian classic is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy dish that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes. Imagine succulent mussels, perfectly steamed and bathed in a rich, tangy tomato sauce, all enhanced by the aromatic allure of garlic and white wine. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe promises to impress. Get ready to savor every bite and discover the secrets to making this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg mussels, cleaned
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Clean the mussels thoroughly under cold running water, removing any beards or debris. Discard any mussels that are cracked or do not close when tapped.
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly and release its aromatic qualities.
- Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and wine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the tomato sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Add the cleaned mussels to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them with the tomato sauce. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Steam the mussels over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until all the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Mussels: Ensure your mussels are fresh by checking for any that are cracked or remain open when tapped. Fresh mussels should close tightly when disturbed.
- Clean Thoroughly: Take the time to clean the mussels under cold running water, scrubbing the shells and removing any beards. This will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.
- Don’t Skip the Wine: The white wine not only adds depth to the sauce but also helps to tenderize the mussels. Choose a good quality wine that you enjoy drinking.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the mussels as they steam; they only need 5-7 minutes to open up. Overcooking can make them tough, so remove them from heat as soon as they’re done.
- Serve Immediately: Mussels are best enjoyed fresh from the skillet. Serve them hot with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce and enjoy a truly satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
