Imagine a burst of fresh flavors dancing on your palate - a vibrant Spanish salad that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! This Tomato and Mussel Salad isn't just a recipe; it's a journey through the sun-drenched coastal regions of Spain, where each bite tells a story of oceanic freshness and rustic charm. Prepare to be transported to a seaside terrace with this incredibly easy yet impressive dish that will make you look like a gourmet chef in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lb mussels, cleaned
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the mussels. Rinse them under cold water to remove any sand or debris. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.
- In a large pot, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Add the cleaned mussels to the pot and cover it with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
- While the mussels are cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
- Once the mussels are cooked, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, remove the mussels from their shells and add them to the bowl with the cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil from the pot over the tomato and mussel mixture, and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Transfer the ensalada to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve immediately while the mussels are still warm, and enjoy this refreshing Spanish dish as a light appetizer or side salad.
Tips
- Mussel Selection: Always choose fresh, tightly closed mussels. If a mussel is open and doesn't close when tapped, discard it to ensure food safety.
- Garlic Technique: When sautéing garlic, keep the heat medium-low to prevent burning. Golden is good, but brown means bitter.
- Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic Spanish flavor. The oil's quality can make a significant difference in the final taste.
- Serving Temperature: Serve this salad slightly warm or at room temperature to maximize the flavor profile of the mussels and tomatoes.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Albariño complements this dish perfectly, enhancing the seafood and bright tomato notes.
- Make-Ahead Tip: While best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving to maintain the salad's texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
