Mussels in spicy tomato sauce

Delicious mussels recipe in spicy tomato sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the fascinating world of fish and seafood dishes! Today, I will reveal to you the simple yet incredibly tasty recipe for mussels in spicy tomato sauce. This dish combines the intense flavors of red wine and tomatoes with a touch of spice and freshness, offering you a memorable culinary experience. Whether you enjoy them with pasta or simply with a slice of fresh bread, mussels in spicy tomato sauce are the perfect choice for a quick and refined dinner.

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g frozen mussels (preferably choose mussels from trusted suppliers to ensure quality)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 150 ml red wine (a quality wine will add a richer taste)
- 1-2 hot peppers (depending on your spice preference)
- 1 large garlic clove (for an extra flavor)
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- A handful of dried basil (or fresh, if available)
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Useful tips about ingredients:

- Mussels: Choose quality frozen mussels to ensure freshness and food safety. Make sure the mussels are well cleaned and free of cracked shells.
- Wine: It doesn't have to be an expensive wine, but choose one that you would be willing to drink. The flavors of the wine concentrate during cooking, so a quality wine will elevate the dish.
- Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, but if you have fresh tomatoes, you can use 400 g of well-ripened, peeled, and diced tomatoes.

Preparation of mussels in spicy tomato sauce:

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Let the oil heat for about 1 minute until it becomes shiny.

2. Add the mussels: Place the frozen mussels in the skillet and let them cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice how they begin to open, releasing their aroma.

3. Deglaze with wine: After 3 minutes, pour the red wine over the mussels in the skillet. Wait for it to boil for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate, leaving behind the rich aroma of the wine.

4. Add the tomatoes: Once the wine has boiled, add the can of diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and let the sauce simmer on low heat.

5. Season: Add salt, white pepper, finely chopped hot pepper, and dried basil. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add more hot pepper, according to your taste.

6. Garlic: Slice the garlic clove thinly and add it to the sauce. The garlic will add a delicious aroma and perfectly complement the dish.

7. Cook the sauce: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. If you notice that the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a few tablespoons of water to thin it out.

8. Check the taste: Finally, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Once the sauce is flavorful and the aroma of the mussels has perfectly blended with the tomatoes, it is ready to serve!

Serving suggestion:

Serve mussels in spicy tomato sauce hot, alongside boiled pasta or with a slice of fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can garnish the plate with a few fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness.

Possible variations:

- Add vegetables: You can include vegetables such as onion or bell pepper, which can be sautéed along with the mussels for an extra nutrient boost.
- Cream sauce: Transform the sauce into a creamy one by adding 100 ml of cooking cream at the end, mixing well.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh mussels?
Yes, fresh mussels are excellent! Make sure they are well cleaned and that all are closed before cooking.

2. What wine should I choose?
Choose a semi-dry red wine that offers a balanced flavor. A Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon are excellent choices.

3. Can I store the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it is recommended to consume fresh mussels to enjoy the best flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

Mussels are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They contain omega-3 which helps maintain heart health and improve cognitive function. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and basil has anti-inflammatory properties.

Calories:

A serving of mussels in spicy tomato sauce (about 125 g) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and added supplements. It is a healthy and delicious option, ideal for a light meal.

In conclusion, the recipe for mussels in spicy tomato sauce is not only simple and quick but also full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. I encourage you to try it and personalize it to your taste. Enjoy your meal!