Steamed Mussels in White Wine
by Carly Cerniglia
Love is in the air, and so is the smell of fragrant garlic, white wine, and steamy mussels. Piled high on a bed of dainty al dente pasta, seafood lovers won’t be able to resist! Try this quick and easy recipe to celebrate the New Year, or to impress your love this Valentine’s Day. You won’t believe how easy it really is!
Ingredients:
2 pounds of fresh mussels
1/8 cup flour
1 ½ cups buttery chardonnay
Four garlic cloves, minced
Two large shallots, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2-3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Thin spaghetti
directions:
Place fresh mussels in a large bowl, cover with cold water and stir in flour. Let soak for 30 minutes or more until they start expelling sand.
Meanwhile, boil the desired amount of thin spaghetti.
After the mussels have soaked, remove any cracked or broken mussels. Give each mussel a squeeze and a tap to make sure they’re tightly closed. Discard any that are opened or not tightly closed. Scrub remaining mussels with a scrubby sponge. Set aside.
In a large pan with a lid, heat olive oil and add shallots. Cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in wine and let simmer for five minutes. Add in muscles and a large pinch of parsley and close the lid. Simmer for five to six minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove any unopened mussels. Plate your spaghetti and spoon your mussels and sauce over them. Garnish with more parsley. Enjoy!