Here’s a list of ingredients for an **Italian-style steamed mussels main dish**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and keywords to help you rank better for related searches:
- **Fresh mussels** (2 pounds, cleaned and debearded)
- **Extra virgin olive oil** (3 tablespoons, for authentic Italian flavor)
- **Garlic cloves** (4-5, minced, for aromatic depth)
- **White wine** (1 cup, dry and crisp, for steaming)
- **Crushed red pepper flakes** (1/2 teaspoon, for a hint of spice)
- **Fresh tomatoes** (2 medium, diced, for a touch of sweetness)
- **Fresh parsley** (1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish and freshness)
- **Fresh basil** (1/4 cup, chopped, for an Italian herb finish)
- **Sea salt** (to taste, for seasoning)
- **Black pepper** (to taste, freshly ground)
- **Lemon wedges** (for serving, adds brightness)
- **Crusty Italian bread** (for serving, to soak up the flavorful broth)
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Steps
# How to Make Italian-Style Steamed Mussels: A Flavorful Main Dish
Italian-style steamed mussels are a classic seafood dish that combines fresh mussels with aromatic herbs, garlic, white wine, and tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive main course. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
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## **Ingredients for Italian-Style Steamed Mussels**
- 2 lbs fresh mussels (cleaned and debearded)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or diced tomatoes)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Crusty bread or garlic bread (for serving)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Clean the Mussels**
- Rinse the mussels under cold water, scrubbing the shells to remove any dirt or debris.
- Remove the "beard" (the fibrous strand) by pulling it toward the hinge of the shell.
- Discard any mussels with cracked shells or those that do not close when tapped.
### **2. Prepare the Aromatics**
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
### **3. Build the Flavor Base**
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
### **4. Steam the Mussels**
- Add the cleaned mussels to the pot, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the mussels steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the shells open. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
### **5. Finish with Fresh Herbs**
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in chopped parsley and basil.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
### **6. Serve and Enjoy**
- Transfer the mussels to a large serving bowl, pouring the flavorful broth over the top.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
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## **Tips for Perfect Italian-Style Steamed Mussels**
- Use fresh, high-quality mussels for the best flavor.
- Pair the dish with a crisp white wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright, citrusy finish.
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This Italian-style steamed mussels recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining fresh seafood with bold Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a family feast, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media using #ItalianMussels!