Hey, foodies!

Welcome back to another delicious entry of our culinary adventures! Today, we’re diving into the world of seafood with a dish that’s elegant, yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner: Mussels Marinara with Red Pepper Flakes. 🦪✨ This recipe is part of my “Healthy Food Recipes” series, focusing on dishes that are good for you and your taste buds!

Before we jump to the recipe, let’s have a little chat. Mussels are one of those underrated superfoods—high in protein, low in fat, and loaded with essential minerals. And guess what? They’re not just for fancy restaurant dinners. With this step-by-step guide, you can whip up a gourmet seafood dish right in your comfy suburban kitchen. So, let’s get cooking!

### Mussels Marinara with Red Pepper Flakes Recipe

#### Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional but recommended 😉)
– 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Crusty bread or pasta for serving

#### Instructions:

1. **Prep the Mussels**:
– First things first, let’s talk mussels. If you’re buying them fresh, make sure they’re closed or close when tapped. Discard any that refuse to close—they’re no good. Rinse them under cold water and remove the beards (the thread-like bits sticking out from the shell).

2. **Sauté the Aromatics**:
– Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent—that’s about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and give it a good stir for another minute. Your kitchen should start smelling heavenly at this point!

3. **Build the Sauce**:
– Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the dry white wine (because why not add an extra layer of flavor?). Stir everything together and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Season with a bit of salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld into a beautiful harmony.

4. **Cook the Mussels**:
– Now, it’s mussel time! Add the cleaned mussels directly into the pot with the tomato sauce. Give them a good stir to make sure each mussel is coated in the sauce. Cover the pot and let the mussels steam for 5-7 minutes, or until they’ve all opened up. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking.

5. **Finishing Touches**:
– Once the mussels are cooked, stir in the fresh parsley and give the sauce a taste. Adjust the seasonings if needed. I always end up adding a pinch more salt, but that’s just me!

6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve the Mussels Marinara with crusty bread (to soak up all that amazing sauce), or over a bed of your favorite pasta. Don’t forget a glass of the leftover white wine because you deserve it!

### Tips and Tricks:

– **Fresh is Best**: Fresh mussels are always a win, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen works too. Just make sure to thaw them out properly.
– **Spice Level**: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking. I like a good kick, but if you’re not a spice fan, feel free to dial it down.
– **Wine Swap**: If you’re skipping the wine, substitute it with a bit of vegetable or chicken broth for extra flavor.
– **Meal Prep**: The marinara sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and add the mussels when you’re ready to serve.

And there you have it—a simple, satisfying Mussels Marinara that’s sure to impress your family and friends! This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutrient-packed option from our “Healthy Food Recipes” collection. Don’t forget to tag me on your recreations; I love seeing your delicious takes on my recipes!

Until next time, happy cooking! 🍷🍝

### Share Your Thoughts
Drop a comment below if you try this recipe, or let me know your favorite seafood dish. And don’t forget to subscribe for more “Healthy Food Recipes” and culinary inspiration!

Cheers,
[Your Name]

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P.S. If you’re still hungry for more Healthy Food Recipes, check out my previous posts on quinoa salads and smoothie bowls! They’re just as tasty and nutritious.