Mussels Marinara
Succulent mussels simmered in a rich marinara sauce with garlic, herbs, and tomatoes, perfect for seafood lovers and ideal for a flavorful, easy-to-prepare meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large flameproof casserole, heat the olive oil.
- Add the garlic and cook over moderate heat until lightly browned, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the mussels, crushed tomatoes, minced parsley, and oregano.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to moderate.
- Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mussels open, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the mussels to soup bowls.
- Discard any mussels that do not open.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the sauce over the mussels and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh mussels and check for any that are open before cooking; discard those that remain closed after cooking. You can substitute the crushed tomatoes with diced tomatoes for a chunkier sauce, or even use a jarred marinara sauce if you're short on time. Pair this dish with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mussels in deep bowls with plenty of sauce, garnished with additional fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a simple white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mussels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent overcooking the mussels. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mussels Marinara contains roughly 2481 calories, with 10g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 253g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (157% of the Daily Value), and calcium (124% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% 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, you can use frozen mussels, but ensure they are properly thawed before cooking. Check the package instructions for thawing tips. Keep in mind that fresh mussels will yield a better texture and flavor.
What if I can't find fresh oregano?
If fresh oregano is unavailable, you can substitute it with dried oregano. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, consider using Italian seasoning for a blend of flavors.
How can I tell when the mussels are done cooking?
Mussels are done when their shells have opened, usually within 5 to 7 minutes of simmering. If any mussels remain closed after cooking, it's best to discard them, as they may not be safe to eat.
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).