Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Spaghetti with Mussels, Saffron and Pachino Cherry Tomatoes: A Truly Special Dish
Whip up this elegant pasta dish brimming with fragrant, Mediterranean flavours that capture the very essence of Sicily in every mouthful.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 320g pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- ✓ 1kg fresh mussels
- ✓ 1 onion
- ✓ 2 cloves garlic
- ✓ 1 chilli (optional)
- ✓ a small bunch of fresh parsley
- ✓ half a glass dry white wine
- ✓ 1kg Pachino cherry tomatoes
- ✓ 2 sachets saffron
- ✓ extra virgin olive oil, to taste
- ✓ salt, to taste
- ✓ freshly ground black pepper
📊 Nutritional Information
This delightful dish brings together the sweetness of Pachino cherry tomatoes, the briny richness of fresh mussels, and the subtle luxury of saffron. Pasta with mussels, saffron and Pachino tomatoes is a feast for the eyes and the palate, full of vibrant colours and scents that sing of Sicily. Simple to prepare yet wonderfully impressive, it’s ideal for special dinners or summery lunches with a touch of Mediterranean charm.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Thoroughly clean the mussels under running water, removing any barnacles and beard threads. Discard any that are open and won’t close when tapped.
- 2
In a large pan, gently heat a splash of olive oil with chopped onion, parsley and chilli. Add the mussels, cover with a lid and cook until they open (about 10-15 minutes). Shell them, reserving a few in their shells for garnish, and strain the cooking liquid.
- 3
Wash and peel the Pachino tomatoes, roughly chop, then cook them gently in a pan with garlic and olive oil until they form a soft sauce. Season with salt, pepper and some of the mussel cooking liquid for extra depth.
- 4
Meanwhile, dissolve the saffron in a little warm water and stir it into the tomato sauce.
- 5
Cook the pasta until just al dente in salted boiling water, drain and toss it in the sauce. Add the mussels and give everything a quick toss, loosening the sauce with a splash more of the cooking liquid if needed.
- 6
Serve piping hot, garnished with whole mussels in their shells and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
💡 Tips and Variations
To boost the flavour, try folding in a few confit tomatoes or a dusting of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. You can swap the mussels for clams or a mixed seafood medley. For an aromatic twist, grate some lemon zest over the finished dish just before serving.
📦 Storage
- • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- • Reheat gently in a pan over a low heat, adding a splash of water or fish stock to keep it saucy.
- • Avoid freezing, as the mussels tend to lose their texture and flavour.
🍷 Pairing
Serve with a glass of Menfi Grecanico, a Sicilian white wine known for its delicate, fruity aromas, which beautifully complements the sea-split flavours and the saffron’s subtle perfume.
This pasta recipe is a little slice of Sicilian sunshine that’s sure to brighten up any meal. It’s the perfect balance of simple, fresh ingredients and mouthwatering flavours that come together in perfect harmony. Why not give it a go at home? Share it with your loved ones and enjoy the warm, welcoming spirit of Mediterranean cooking right at your own table.
Rate this recipe
Click or tap the stars to rate
Potrebbero interessarti anche:
-
Linguine with Lobster: A Sophisticated Taste of Sicilian Coastal Charm First Courses Seafood first coursesDive into the luxurious flavours of Sicilian cuisine with this elegant linguine all’aglio e astice, where the bounties of the Mediterranean come together beautifully.
-
Pasta with Anchovy Ragù: A Taste of Sicily's Coastal Charm First Courses Seafood first coursesLearn how to make Pasta with Anchovy Ragù, a delightful Sicilian classic bursting with authentic Mediterranean flavours.
-
Seafood Risotto: A Beloved Sicilian Classic First Courses Seafood first coursesDive into the rich and fragrant world of Sicilian seafood risotto, a timeless dish bursting with Mediterranean flavours.
-
Classic Sicilian Clam Pasta: A Taste of the Sea First Courses Seafood first courses Quick RecipesDiscover the authentic recipe for clam pasta, a simple yet elegant seafood dish bursting with the fresh aromas of the Mediterranean.
-
Pasta with Fresh Tuna and Datterino Tomatoes: A Delightful Sicilian Classic, Quick and Easy First Courses Seafood first courses Quick RecipesDive into the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean with this fresh tuna and sweet datterino tomato pasta.