Mussels In Sauce
A flavorful seafood dish featuring tender mussels in a savory tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and herbs, perfect for a delightful dinner. Complements pasta beautifully.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepot, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and diced onions.
- Saute until the onions are transparent.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Add the cleaned mussels, chopped parsley, crushed red pepper, and white wine.
- Simmer until all the mussels are open, about 40 minutes.
- Serve the mussels in sauce over linguini.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the crushed red pepper or omit it altogether. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be substituted for parsley to give a different flavor profile. Pair this dish with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or try serving with a side of 'Garides' - Shrimp Tourkolimano for a delightful seafood feast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mussels in sauce over a bed of linguini for a hearty meal. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of dry white wine and a light salad, or you can browse more Mediterranean recipes for complementary sides.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the mussels in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or white wine to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may make the mussels tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mussels In Sauce contains roughly 1023 calories, with 27g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (638% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (95% of the Daily Value), and iron (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1088mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen mussels for this recipe?
Yes, frozen mussels can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. They should be cleaned and debearded if necessary. The cooking time may be slightly shorter since they are already cooked, so keep an eye on them.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with vegetable broth or clam juice to maintain a rich flavor. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can add acidity and brightness without the alcohol.
How can I tell when the mussels are done?
Mussels are ready when they open up during cooking. Discard any that remain closed after cooking, as they may be unsafe to eat. It's essential to cook them just until they open to avoid overcooking and ensure they remain tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).