Recipe: Classic Mussels Marinara with Tomato & White Wine
Mussels Marinara is one of those recipes that's simple to prepare but feels like something you'd order at your favourite Italian restaurant. Sweet mussels are simmered in a rich tomato, garlic and white wine sauce, then finished with fresh herbs and served with plenty of crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
Using our Greenshell Mussels makes this recipe even easier. They're already cleaned, de-bearded and presented on the half shell, so all the hard work has been done for you.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small brown onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
- 400g can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 250ml fish or vegetable stock
- 1 cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio, Soave or Chardonnay work well)
- 1kg Dawson's Greenshell Mussels
- ½ bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 10 fresh basil leaves, torn
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and cracked black pepper
- Crusty bread, to serve
Method
Prepare the mussels: If you're using Dawson's frozen Greenshell Mussels, simply remove them from the freezer and set aside. No cleaning or preparation is required. If using fresh live mussels, rinse under cold water, scrub the shells and remove any beards.
Cook the sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir through the garlic, chilli flakes (if using) and lemon zest, cooking for another minute.
Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine and stock. Season with salt and pepper, stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook the mussels: Add the mussels, cover with a lid and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
Serve: Divide the mussels and sauce between bowls, scatter over the parsley and basil, and serve immediately with warm crusty bread.
Why We Love Greenshell Mussels
At Dawson's, we stock premium Greenshell Mussels from New Zealand in convenient 1kg boxes. Unlike live mussels, they're already cleaned, de-bearded and presented on the half shell, making them one of the easiest seafood products to cook with at home.
Greenshell Mussels are known for their large size, tender texture and naturally sweet flavour. They're also a sustainable seafood choice and a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron and vitamin B12.
One 1kg box comfortably serves two to three people, making them excellent value for an easy weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.
A Brief History of Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce originated in Naples, Italy, during the 16th century after tomatoes were introduced to Europe. The name comes from the Italian word marinaro, meaning "sailor", as the sauce was traditionally prepared for sailors returning to port. Made with simple pantry staples like tomatoes, garlic and herbs, it was quick to cook and naturally resisted spoilage, making it a practical meal for life at sea.
Today, marinara remains one of Italy's most recognisable sauces and is a natural pairing with seafood. The acidity of tomatoes, richness of olive oil and brightness of fresh herbs complement shellfish beautifully without overpowering their delicate flavour.