Linguine and Mussels Marinara

SERVES: 3

PREP: 10 Min

COOK TIME: 13 Min

We can't go wrong with this classic Italian dish, Linguine and Mussels Marinara. It is the perfect meal with such simple ingredients.

What You'll Need

8 ounces linguine, uncooked
1 pound fresh, farm-raised mussels
2 cups chunky-style pasta sauce
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

What to Do

Cook pasta according to package directions.
While pasta cooks, rinse mussels in cold water; remove beards on mussels, and scrub shells thoroughly with a brush. Discard any opened or cracked mussels. Combine mussels, pasta sauce, and red pepper in a large deep skillet. Cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat; cook 5 minutes or until mussels open. (Discard any unopened mussels.)
Place drained pasta into individual shallow bowls. Top with mussels and sauce; sprinkle with chopped basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

Before preparing, tap mussels that have an opened shell. If they close, they're fine to cook; if they remain open, discard them along with any cracked mussels. To debeard a mussel, grasp the hairlike beard with your thumb and forefinger, and pull it away from the shell. Then the mussels are ready for a quick simmer.