Experience the sheer delight of Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce – a swift, fresh, and effortlessly elegant seafood dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Succulent mussels are harmoniously melded with delectable Flavors, then lovingly entwined with spaghetti noodles, all lavished in a luscious tomato sauce. This is your ticket to a swift, high-quality restaurant-grade meal, perfect for those bustling weeknights or any day you fancy a touch of luxury. Elevate the experience with a side of rustic bread, ideal for dipping.
Our affinity for mussels stems from their ease of preparation and quick cooking. Introduce pasta into the equation, and you’ll find yourself savoring a wonderfully balanced, nourishing feast in practically no time. If you share our love for mussels, brace yourself for a culinary journey that extends to adoring creations like Thai Red Curry Mussels and Steamed Mussels in Tomato Sauce.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 8 ounces (225g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti or linguine work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces/400g) of diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120ml) of white wine (optional)
- Use 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and adjust the amount to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, strain the pasta and place it to the side.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a spacious skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Introduce the Tomatoes
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including their juices. If you choose to use white wine, add it at this point. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper according to your flavor preference.
Step 4: Cook the Mussels
Gently nestle the cleaned mussels into the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mussels cook for approximately 5-7 minutes. Remember to give the pan an occasional shake. The mussels are ready when they open up. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the mussels and tomato sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta gets evenly coated with the flavourful sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your mouthwatering Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce onto serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of aroma and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Your delightful Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce is ready to be enjoyed. Consider serving it with some crusty bread to savor every drop of the Savory sauce. Bon appétit!
Recipe Video:
Nutrition Information Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 430 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| – Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 60g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| – Sugars | 7g |
| Protein | 24g |
Health Benefits, Storage, and Reheating Guide for Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce
Human Benefits:
- High in Protein: Mussels provide a significant amount of protein, which plays a crucial role in the body’s tissue building and repair processes.
- Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fat, promoting heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
- Rich in Vitamins: It provides a significant amount of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and a strong immune system.
- Good Source of Iron: Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, and this dish contains a substantial amount.
- Fiber Content: The pasta and tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, aiding in digestive health.
- Low in Added Sugar: There’s minimal added sugar, which is beneficial for those seeking to reduce sugar intake.
- Moderate Calorie Count: This dish provides a reasonable number of calories, suitable for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy this flavourful and nutritious Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce for a delightful dining experience!
Storage Instructions:
If you have leftovers of your Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce that you’d like to store, follow these steps for safe storage:
- Cool It Down: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Avoid letting it sit at room temperature for longer than two hours.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent any air from entering, which can cause the food to spoil faster.
- Label and Date: A helpful habit is to mark the container with the date when you made the dish. This makes it easier to monitor its freshness.
- Refrigerate: Place the airtight container in the refrigerator. The Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce, you can reheat it following these simple steps:
- Stovetop: For the best results, reheat on the stovetop. Place a skillet or saucepan on medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Add the leftover pasta and sauce, and gently heat while stirring occasionally. Ensure it’s heated evenly.
- Microwave: If you’re short on time, you have the option to use the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap with a vent. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated to your desired temperature. Be cautious not to overcook, as this can make the pasta mushy.
- Oven: If you have a larger portion and prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Check Temperature: Regardless of the method you choose, ensure that the internal temperature of the pasta reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Now you can Savor your Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce all over again, maintaining its delicious Flavors and safety. Enjoy!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND TIPS
- How should live fresh mussels be cleaned and prepared?
- Cleaning: Use a scrubbing brush to gently clean the mussels, removing any particles or debris on their shells.
- Beard Removal: Each mussel may have a small stringy mass called a “beard” sticking out from the side. To remove it, hold the mussel in one hand and gently pull the beard towards the bottom of the mussel, where it’s attached.
- Rinse: After removing the beards, give the mussels one final rinse under cold running water to ensure they are clean.
- This preparation step ensures that your mussels are ready to be used in your recipe, free from any grit or unwanted parts.
2. How do I store mussels pasta?
You can keep the mussels pasta in the fridge for a maximum of 2 days in an airtight container. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat until it’s heated through. If the sauce has thickened during refrigeration, consider adding a small amount of water to achieve your desired consistency.
3. Can I make this pasta my own?
If you want to make a delicious seafood pasta dish, you may add cooked shrimp, scallops, or clams to your mussels pasta.