Mussels in Tomato White Wine Sauce
Mussels in Tomato White Wine Sauce is a delightful seafood appetizer that’s perfect for festive gatherings. This dish features fresh mussels cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce made from ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a splash of white wine, which enhances the overall taste. The combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors creates a deliciously comforting experience.
This dish is ideal for snacking before dinner or serving at special occasions. The mussels soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser during the holidays or any gathering.
Ingredients for Mussels in Tomato White Wine Sauce
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 cup, finely chopped
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Garlic: 1 tablespoon, minced
- Tomatoes: 1 large, chopped
- White Wine: 1 cup
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- Fresh Mussels: 2 lbs, well scrubbed and debearded
- Crusty French Bread: for serving
Process to Make Mussels in Tomato White Wine Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add 1 cup of finely chopped onion, along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Cook the onions for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Next, add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 large chopped tomato to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute. This step enhances the flavors, allowing the garlic to release its aroma and the tomatoes to soften slightly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Wine and Parsley
Pour in 1 cup of white wine and add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon of dried parsley if fresh isn’t available). Bring the mixture to a boil, which helps to cook off some of the alcohol and deepen the flavors of the sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Mussels
Once the mixture is boiling, add 2 pounds of fresh mussels that have been well scrubbed and debearded. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mussels cook for about 4 minutes. During this time, the mussels will steam open, absorbing the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After 4 minutes, remove the pan from heat. Discard any mussels that have not opened, as they may not be safe to eat. This is an important step to ensure only fresh, fully cooked mussels are served.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the mussels and the broth to a large deep bowl. Serve immediately, making sure to have spoons available for the flavorful broth. Accompany the dish with crusty French bread for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of mussels in a savory tomato white wine sauce!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 7.5g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 240mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1.5g
- Protein: 14g
FAQ’S
What type of white wine should I use?
A dry white wine is best for this recipe. Options like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay work well. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the flavor of the sauce.
Can I use frozen mussels for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mussels. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking, and follow the same cooking instructions. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
How can I tell if the mussels are fresh?
Fresh mussels should be tightly closed or close when tapped. Discard any that remain open or have broken shells. A fresh mussel should smell briny, like the sea.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the sauce can be prepared in advance, it’s best to cook the mussels just before serving for optimal texture and flavor. Reheating cooked mussels can make them rubbery.
What can I serve with mussels in tomato white wine sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty French bread for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can also complement the meal nicely.