Spaghetti with mussels and tomato sauce

Spaghetti with Mussels and Tomato Sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to your kitchen! Today, I present you with a delicious recipe for spaghetti with mussels and tomato sauce, a perfect combination of flavors that will take you straight to the seaside. This recipe is inspired by Radu Popovici and is perfect for a quick yet elegant meal. Whether you are preparing for a family dinner or want to impress friends, this dish is the ideal choice.

Recipe History
Spaghetti with mussels is a classic example of Mediterranean cuisine, where seafood is often used in pasta dishes. Mussels, rich in protein and minerals, have been consumed for centuries, and their combination with tomato sauce brings a fresh and vibrant taste.

Ingredients
- 250 g spaghetti
- 250 g fresh mussels (cleaned and washed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 400 ml tomato juice (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh basil, chopped (or frozen basil if fresh is not available)

Step by step: Preparing spaghetti with mussels
1. Boil the spaghetti: In a large pot, fill with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This step is essential, as al dente spaghetti will absorb the sauce better and have a more pleasant texture. After cooking, drain and reserve a little of the cooking water to adjust the sauce later.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, add the butter and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir frequently until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

3. Add the mussels: Place the mussels in the skillet, stirring to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture. Let them steam open for 5-7 minutes. It is important to use fresh mussels, as those that do not open should be discarded, as they are not safe to eat.

4. Add the tomato sauce: Once the mussels have opened, add the tomato juice and mix well. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, so the flavors can combine.

5. Combine with the spaghetti: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, along with 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix well to coat the pasta in the delicious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved cooking water.

6. Finalizing: Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh basil. Gently stir to infuse the fresh basil flavor into the dish.

7. Serving: Serve immediately, garnishing with additional basil leaves and, if desired, grated Parmesan on top. This detail will add a touch of flavor, but it is optional.

Practical tips
- Mussels: Make sure to choose fresh mussels that smell like the sea and are closed (open ones are not good). If using frozen mussels, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.
- Basil: If you do not have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor will not be as intense. Add it at the beginning of cooking to allow it to release its flavors.
- Variations: You can also add other seafood, such as shrimp or calamari, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can add chili peppers to give a touch of spice.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a healthy alternative and will provide a different texture.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add chili flakes or chili sauce to taste.

3. Can I prepare this recipe without mussels?
Absolutely! You can replace mussels with vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for a vegetarian version.

Nutritional benefits
This spaghetti with mussels recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Mussels are rich in protein, vitamins (especially B12), and minerals such as zinc and iron. Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and extra virgin olive oil adds healthy fats.

Calories
A serving of this recipe has approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Ideal pairings
To turn this meal into a perfect feast, you can serve it alongside a fresh green salad with lemon and olive oil, as well as a glass of dry white wine.

Conclusion
Spaghetti with mussels and tomato sauce is a quick, tasty, and aromatic choice that will delight any seafood lover. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and add your personal touch to the recipe. Cooking is an art, and each recipe becomes unique through your personal touches. So, put on your apron and enjoy the creative process! Bon appétit!