Mejillones A La Marinera

If you’re looking to bring a touch of the Spanish coastal cuisine into your home, Mejillones a la Marinera is a delightful choice. This traditional dish of mussels simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce is perfect for a cozy evening in or for impressing guests at your next gathering. The combination of fresh seafood and aromatic spices make it a standout dish that is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few key ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a beautiful and delicious meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors.

Mejillones A La Marinera

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:
1. Start by cleaning and debearding the fresh mussels. Discard any mussels that are already open or broken.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and stir well to combine with the vegetables.
5. Add the white wine, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the pot, stirring to incorporate all the flavors.
6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Carefully add the cleaned mussels to the pot, making sure they are in a single layer. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mussels cook for 5-7 minutes.
8. Check the mussels occasionally and discard any that have not opened after cooking.
9. Once all the mussels have opened, remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Serve the Mejillones a la Marinera hot with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Mejillones a la Marinera dish with a glass of your favorite white wine or sangria for a truly authentic Spanish dining experience. The combination of tender mussels in a fragrant tomato-based sauce will transport you to the sunny shores of Spain without ever leaving your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for loved ones or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Embrace the Mediterranean flavors and savor each delightful bite of this classic seafood dish.