Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Mussels

Craving a dish that combines the ocean’s bounty with comforting pasta? This garlic butter spaghetti with mussels is the answer. It’s a delightful seafood recipe that brings the taste of the coast straight to your dining table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

With tender mussels and al dente spaghetti coated in a rich and fragrant garlic butter sauce, each bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a match made in culinary heaven that’s both simple and elegant.

A Delectable Seafood Pasta Dish

This dish showcases the perfect harmony of flavors and textures, featuring freshly steamed mussels stirred into a luxurious garlic butter sauce with al dente spaghetti. Each ingredient plays an integral role, creating a culinary experience that transports you straight to the coast.

The mussels, known for their sweet and briny flavor, absorb the savory notes of garlic and butter, enhancing the taste of the pasta. This combination is not only satisfying but also incredibly appealing on the plate, making it ideal for sharing with friends or serving at a dinner party.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to have all ingredients ready. Fresh mussels should be cleaned and scrubbed thoroughly to ensure they are free from sand and grit. Selecting high-quality spaghetti is crucial; opt for a type that holds sauce well.

Chop the garlic finely to intensify its flavor, and have your fresh parsley ready for a finishing touch. The addition of lemon wedges enhances the dish and provides a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic butter sauce.

The Cooking Process

Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a pot of boiling salted water. The pasta should be cooked until al dente, allowing it to maintain a slight firmness that perfectly complements the tender mussels.

While the spaghetti cooks, melt butter in a large skillet and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. This step releases the aromatic oils from the garlic, creating a flavorful base for the mussels.

Bringing it All Together

Once the mussels are added to the skillet with white wine, they will start to open up, releasing their natural juices. This not only cooks the mussels but also forms a delightful broth that intertwines with the spaghetti.

After combining the pasta with the mussels, remember to adjust the seasoning. A splash of reserved pasta water can help achieve the desired sauce consistency, ensuring each strand of spaghetti is coated in the rich flavors of the garlic butter.

Serving and Presentation

To serve, divide the spaghetti and mussels onto plates, ensuring each serving showcases the mussels elegantly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color, while lemon wedges provide a bright, zesty finish.

Placing the dish on a rustic wooden table alongside a glass of chilled white wine creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying a lovely meal. This presentation not only highlights the dish’s beauty but also enhances the overall dining experience.

Pairing Suggestions

This garlic butter spaghetti with mussels pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine complements the richness of the butter and the briny flavor of the mussels, creating a balanced meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be added, providing an extra layer of flavor that tantalizes the palate without overpowering the dish. Enjoy this delightful seafood pasta dish for a taste of the sea at home, creating memories over a shared meal.

A Delectable Seafood Pasta Dish

This recipe features fresh mussels sautéed in garlic and butter, tossed with spaghetti for a satisfying meal. The combination of flavors creates a delightful taste experience, with a hint of the sea that pairs beautifully with the pasta.

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti (Gluten free optional)
• 1 kg fresh mussels, cleaned and scrubbed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the Mussels: Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Add the cleaned mussels to the skillet, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until mussels have opened. Discard any that do not open.
4. Combine Pasta and Mussels: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the mussels, tossing to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Divide the spaghetti and mussels among serving plates, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 60g