Spaghetti with Mussels and Creamy Cannellini Beans

Spaghetti with Cannellini Beans and Mussels

This hearty, flavorful dish combines the delicate taste of mussels with the creaminess of cannellini beans, tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a satisfying meal. Ideal for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors, perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, fresh chili, white wine, and olive oil elevates the simple ingredients into a mouthwatering main course.

Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Aromatic Ingredients
   Start by preparing the aromatic base for the dish. Wash and finely chop a handful of fresh parsley. Peel and finely mince the garlic clove. Trim the fresh chili pepper, removing the green tip, and slice it into thin rings. These ingredients will infuse the dish with flavor, so take your time chopping them finely.

2. Prepare the Mussels
   Next, it’s time to prep the mussels. Remove the beard (the fibrous part) from each mussel. Scrub the shells clean with a brush to ensure they are free from any debris. This step is crucial for both cleanliness and taste. Discard any mussels that do not close when tapped, as they may be spoiled.

3. Sauté the Base Flavors
   In a large, deep frying pan or wide saucepan, heat a generous splash of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic, chili pepper, and a portion of the chopped parsley (reserve some parsley for garnish). Sauté for a minute or two, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. This base will create a deliciously aromatic backdrop for the mussels.

4. Cook the Mussels
   Now, add the prepared mussels to the pan. Pour in the white wine and allow it to evaporate slightly. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mussels steam for about 5-7 minutes or until they have all opened up. If any mussels remain closed, discard them. Once cooked, remove the mussels from the shell, saving both the meat and the cooking liquid. Set them aside.

5. Combine Mussels, Beans, and Cooking Liquid
   Return the mussels to the pan along with the cooking liquid they released during steaming. Add the pre-cooked cannellini beans to the pan and stir gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to simmer together for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The beans will soften further and absorb the flavors from the mussels, creating a creamy sauce.

6. Cook the Spaghetti
   Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-10 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving a small cup of the pasta water.

7. Toss the Pasta with Mussels and Beans
   Transfer the drained spaghetti directly into the pan with the mussels and beans. Add the reserved parsley and toss everything together. If the sauce appears too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated with the delicious sauce.

8. Serve
   Once well combined, serve the spaghetti with mussels and beans immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light rosé to complement the flavors of the seafood and beans. The creamy beans and tender mussels meld beautifully with the pasta, making each bite a delightful experience.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This recipe is a true celebration of the Mediterranean flavors, where simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and healthy. The combination of mussels, beans, and pasta offers a unique texture and taste, while the fresh herbs and spices bring a burst of flavor to each bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish will become a family favorite.