The Authentic Marinara Mussel Recipe: Easy and Delicious Italian Dish
Whether you’re planning a special holiday feast or just craving a taste of the Mediterranean, this easy-to-make appetizer is sure to impress. A classic dish from Italian cuisine, this recipe is not only simple to prepare, but also highlights the natural flavors of the mussels. Contrary to what some might think, the authentic Marinara Mussel recipe doesn’t include tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg mussels
- 80 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 50 ml dry white wine
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly cleaning the mussels. Remove the beard and scrub the shells to get rid of any debris. Rinse them under cold running water to ensure all dirt is washed away. If you have pre-blanched and opened mussels, a quick rinse under cold water will suffice.
- In a large non-stick skillet, pour the extra virgin olive oil and add the garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic until it turns a light brown color, then remove the cloves from the pan to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Add the cleaned mussels to the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 2–3 minutes, or until they start to open. This initial cooking releases the natural juices of the mussels.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the mussels, then pour in the dry white wine. Let the wine simmer until the alcohol evaporates, usually taking about a minute.
- Cover the skillet and let the mussels steam for an additional 5–6 minutes, or until all the mussels have opened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once all mussels have opened, cook for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld. Then, turn off the heat and serve your marinara mussels immediately.
- This authentic marinara mussel recipe is best enjoyed hot, with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.