Pan toss for Spaghetti with Mussels

In my opinion, there’s something magical about the simplicity of spaghetti (or similar #pasta) with mussels. They’re truly a Mediterranean delight, as well as a quintessentially Italian dish. Last night, I treated myself to trighetti from La Molisana with mussels, and I mainly want to share the “secret” behind their creaminess. Because spaghetti with mussels MUST be creamy and silky…

Ingredients (for 2 people):

• 200 g of trighetti (or spaghetti)

• 500 g of fresh mussels

• 2 garlic cloves (preferably red garlic)

• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

• A handful of freshly chopped parsley

• Chili pepper (optional, to taste)

• Salt, as needed

• Pasta cooking water (for creaminess)

The Creaminess SecretSautéing the pasta in the pan with a bit of cooking water is the crucial final step. The starchy pasta water blends with the salty liquid released by the mussels, creating a natural, flavorful cream without adding any extra ingredients.

Instructions

1. Clean the mussels: rinse the mussels under cold running water, scrub the shells with a brush, and remove the byssus (the little threads sticking out) by gently pulling it. (If the mussels don’t open during cooking, discard them).

2. Prepare the base: heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pan with the crushed garlic cloves and chili pepper (I love chili pepper, but I think the quantity should be moderate — otherwise, it overpowers the main ingredient).

3. Cook the mussels: add the mussels, cover the pan with a lid, and let them open over medium-high heat. Once they’ve opened, filter the mussel liquid through a strainer to remove any shell residue.

4. Cook the pasta: boil the trighetti (or spaghetti) in plenty of salted water. Drain the pasta about 3 minutes before the cooking time indicated on the package.

5. Combine and sauté: transfer the pasta to the pan with the mussels. Add a ladleful of the pasta cooking water and sauté over high heat, stirring continuously, until a silky, creamy sauce forms.

6. Finish: Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley.

Et voilà!

For an extra touch, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving — it’ll enhance the flavors beautifully!

Now, go make this dish and tell me how creamy it turned out for you! 😋

In Napoli (I am born there…) it is a dish associated with home cooking and “spaghettate” (pasta feasts) among friends and family, especially during the summer season. Unsurprisingly, it is often prepared during celebrations or convivial moments, as it is affordable, quick to cook, and perfect for large gatherings.In Naples, every family and restaurant has its own version, adding small personal touches: some include a handful of fresh cherry tomatoes, others deglaze with white wine, while some insist on using a specific type of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or spaghettoni)

1. Match the Intensity: When selecting a wine to pair with your Italian dish, consider the intensity of both the food and the wine. For example, a bold and robust red wine would pair beautifully with a rich and hearty pasta dish, while a lighter white wine would complement a delicate seafood risotto.

2. Consider the Sauce: The sauce can often be the star of an Italian dish, so pay attention to its flavors when choosing a wine. A tomato-based sauce may pair well with a medium-bodied red wine, while a creamy Alfredo sauce could be complemented by a buttery Chardonnay.

3. Regional Pairings: Italy is known for its diverse regional cuisines, each with its own unique flavors and ingredients. Consider pairing dishes from a specific region with wines from the same area to create an authentic and harmonious pairing.

4. Don't Forget Sparkling Wines: Sparkling wines are incredibly versatile and can pair well with a variety of Italian dishes. Prosecco, for example, is a great choice to pair with antipasti or light seafood dishes.

5. Dessert Wines: Don't overlook the importance of pairing wine with dessert! Italian desserts such as tiramisu or cannoli can be beautifully complemented by a sweet dessert wine like Moscato d'Asti or Vin Santo. Remember, these tips are just a starting point, and the most important thing is to trust your palate and experiment with different pairings to find what you enjoy most. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, the right wine pairing can truly elevate your Italian dining experience. Cheers to good food, good wine, and good company!