Mussels in Spicy Tomato Sauce

Name: Mussels in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Yield: makes 6 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup cornmeal; 2 pounds large mussels, preferably cultivated; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for finishing the dish if you like; 8 cloves garlic, sliced; One 1-pint basket ripe cherry tomatoes, cut in half, or 2 cups canned Italian plum tomatoes, crushed; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, preferably the Sicilian or Greek type dried on the branch, crumbled; 1/2 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper; 1 cup dry white wine; 10 large fresh basil leaves, shredded; Salt to taste

December 9, 2011

This dish can wear many hats. As is, it makes a light appetizer. Served with a zoccolo (fried bread “clog”—see the recipe that follows), it becomes a more substantial main course. Or you can prepare the mussels as described and toss them with freshly cooked linguine. This recipe will make enough sauce for a pound of linguine—six generous servings.

Cooks' Note

Make sure, whenever you buy mussels, they feel heavy in the palm of your hands and the shells are shut tight.

Recipe notes

29 Ricotta Recipes for Dinner, Dessert, and More

Put that half-full tub to use with recipes that go beyond the Italian American classics.

The Most-Saved Recipes in the Epicurious App This Week

Like seared scallop piccata and chocolate Guinness cake.

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

The Only Frittata Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Vegan Chili

This vegan chili skips the meat but keeps all of the smoky-savory flavors that make it so comforting: cocoa powder, beans, and all of the toppings.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.