Bucatini Mussels and Tomatoes Sauce

This recipe for Bucatini Mussels and Tomato Sauce combines the rich flavors of seafood with a robust tomato base, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. Tender mussels are cooked in a flavorful broth enhanced with white wine, garlic, and Calabrian chile paste, while chunks of cod add a delicate texture.

The bucatini pasta is perfectly al dente and coated in a glossy sauce made creamy with butter and brightened with lemon juice.

Finished with a generous garnish of fresh parsley, this dish is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors and is sure to impress both family and guests alike. Enjoy the harmony of seafood and pasta in every bite!

Bucatini Mussels and Tomatoes Sauce

Ingredients:

Salt

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 shallots, minced

10 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

Black pepper

Crushed red pepper

1½ cups dry white wine

2 pounds mussels, cleaned (see Tip)

1(28-ounce) can tomato purée

1 tablespoon Calabrian chile paste, plus more to taste

3 pounds cod fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 pounds bucatini or other long pasta

4 tablespoons salted butter

1 cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

1 lemon

Instructions:

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat.

Step 2

In a separate large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil, shallots and garlic plus a few pinches of salt, black pepper and red pepper.

Cook, stirring a few times, until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 3

Add white wine, then cover and bring to a simmer.

Add mussels and cover again.

Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until mussels have all opened.

Place opened mussels into a bowl and cover with foil to keep warm.

If there are a few left unopened, cover the pot for a minute at a time until they all open. (Discard any that don’t open.)

Step 4

Stir the tomato purée, chile paste and a few pinches of salt into the mussel broth, maintaining medium heat.

Add the cod, gently stir to coat, cover and cook for 7 minutes, until the cod is opaque but still firm.

Step 5

Meanwhile, drop the bucatini into the boiling water and cook until al dente according to the package’s directions.

Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 6

Add the bucatini, butter and parsley to the tomato sauce and stir.

Add reserved pasta water, ¼ cup at a time, as needed until the sauce is glossy and clinging to the pasta.

Squeeze the juice of the lemon over pasta and stir.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Transfer pasta to a serving bowl (or keep in the pot) and add the mussels and any accumulated liquid.

Garnish with more chopped parsley.

Serve immediately.

TIP

Soak mussels in cold water and scrub any dirt or debris off of their shells. Discard any mussels with open, cracked or chipped shells.

Notes:

Ingredients Selection: Use fresh mussels and cod for the best flavor. Ensure the tomato purée and Calabrian chile paste are of good quality to enhance the sauce.

Preparation Tips:

Clean the mussels thoroughly and discard any that are cracked or open before cooking.

Slice the garlic thinly to ensure it cooks evenly and infuses its flavor throughout the dish.

Adjust the amount of Calabrian chile paste to your preference for spiciness.

Cooking Process:

Be vigilant when cooking the mussels; discard any that do not open after cooking as they may be unsafe to eat.

When adding the cod to the sauce, cook it gently to prevent it from breaking apart. The fish should be opaque and just cooked through.

Pasta Cooking: Cook the bucatini until al dente (firm to the bite) to ensure it retains its texture when combined with the sauce.

Sauce Consistency: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the sauce to achieve the desired consistency. This helps create a smooth and creamy texture that coats the pasta evenly.

Finishing Touches:

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta at the end to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the sauce.

Garnish generously with chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Serving: Serve the dish immediately after assembling to enjoy the mussels and pasta at their best texture and temperature.

Variations: Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings according to personal taste preferences. Consider adding additional herbs or spices for added complexity.

Presentation: Arrange the dish attractively with a sprinkle of parsley for garnish to enhance its visual appeal.

Enjoyment: This recipe is ideal for gatherings or special occasions where you can showcase the flavors of seafood and pasta in a comforting and satisfying dish. Enjoy it with friends and family alongside crusty bread and a crisp white wine for a complete meal experience.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pasta instead of bucatini?

Yes, you can use any long pasta like spaghetti or linguine as a substitute for bucatini.

How do I clean mussels properly before cooking?

Rinse the mussels under cold water and scrub them with a brush to remove any grit or debris.

Discard any mussels with cracked shells or that do not close when tapped.

What can I use as a substitute for Calabrian chile paste?

You can substitute Calabrian chile paste with crushed red pepper flakes or another type of spicy chili paste according to your preference.

Can I prepare this dish without wine?

Yes, you can omit the wine.

Substitute it with seafood or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.

How can I tell if the cod fillets are cooked through?

Cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Be careful not to overcook, as it can become dry.

What should I do if some mussels do not open during cooking?

Discard any mussels that do not open after cooking.

This indicates they were not alive and safe to eat.

How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper or Calabrian chile paste added to the sauce to control the level of spiciness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components like cooking the mussels and sauce ahead of time.

Reheat gently and cook the pasta just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?

Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables complement this dish well.

They add variety and balance to the meal.