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mussels in tomato sauce

mussels in tomato sauce

Mussels in tomato sauce bring the real Mediterranean flavor to your table. Perfect for a quick, healthy seafood meal!
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Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch or Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg fresh mussels cleaned and debearded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1 unit onion small, finely chopped
  • 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili flakes optional, adjust to your taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 cup dry white wine optional but recommended
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for serving
  • 1 unit lemon cut into wedges, for serving

Method
 

  1. Clean and debeard the mussels thoroughly under cold running water. Discard any mussels that remain open after a gentle tap.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the crushed tomatoes, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Pour in the white wine (if using) and allow it to bubble for 1 minute, mixing well.
  5. Add the mussels to the pot. Toss to coat them well with the sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels open.
  6. Remove from heat as soon as the mussels are open. Discard any mussels that do not open during cooking.
  7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges and fresh bread. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

If you're looking for a dish that brings people together and tastes like a cozy Mediterranean evening, mussels in tomato sauce are a timeless classic. This recipe is wonderfully versatile—perfect for a relaxed family dinner, an impressive starter for guests, or as part of a tapas-style spread. Mussels cook quickly and absorb all the delicious flavors, making this dish both rewarding and practical for busy days.

Practical Tips & Ingredient Swaps

  • Freshness matters: When selecting mussels, ensure their shells are closed. If you find any that won’t close even after a firm tap, discard them for safety.
  • No wine? Substitute with a splash of vegetable or seafood stock. This keeps the sauce rich and savory.
  • Herb flexibility: Don’t have fresh parsley? Try fresh basil or cilantro for a unique twist. Fresh herbs added at the end give brightness to the dish.
  • Spice control: Adjust chili flakes to taste or omit them entirely for a milder version. You can also use fresh red chilies for a bolder kick.

Preparation Insights & Techniques

Debearding and cleaning the mussels well is critical—grit or sand can quickly ruin the experience. Use a stiff brush and rinse under cold running water, pulling away the “beard” (the stringy part).
To maximize flavor, let the tomato sauce simmer briefly so it becomes slightly sweet and concentrated, then add the mussels. It’s important to cover and shake the pot occasionally—this ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

  • Serve with: Crusty bread is a must to soak up the vibrant sauce. Steamed rice or pasta are great if you want something more substantial.
  • Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé is the perfect partner for this dish.
  • Add seafood variety: Add shrimp or calamari to the pot for a richer seafood medley. Adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking these additions.
  • Extra flavor: Stir in olives or capers for a deeper Mediterranean flair, or finish with a drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, mussels in tomato sauce are super approachable and rewarding. Enjoy the process and the irresistible flavors that come with it!