Introduction
Spain is known for its rich seafood heritage, and one of the standout dishes is Mejillones a la Marinera—mussels in a savory tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, wine, and paprika. This traditional dish from the coastal regions of Spain is flavorful, aromatic, and incredibly easy to prepare.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of the dish, provide a step-by-step recipe, and suggest variations to suit every taste. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just curious about authentic Spanish cuisine, Mejillones a la Marinera is a must-try.
What Are Mejillones a la Marinera?
Mejillones a la Marinera translates to mussels sailor-style. It’s a beloved tapa and main course in Spanish households and restaurants alike. The dish involves steaming fresh mussels and serving them in a thick, savory sauce made from onions, garlic, tomatoes, white wine, paprika, and olive oil.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 kg fresh mussels (cleaned and bearded)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 100 ml dry white wine
- 200 ml crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How to Make Mejillones a la Marinera
Step 1: Clean and Steam the Mussels
Rinse mussels under cold water, discarding any that are already open. Steam them in a covered pot with a splash of water or wine for 5 minutes until they open. Remove mussels and reserve the cooking liquid (strain it through a fine sieve to remove sand).
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until golden. Add flour and stir for 1 minute to thicken the sauce slightly.
Step 3: Add Wine and Tomatoes
Pour in the white wine and let it reduce. Add the tomato sauce, paprika, bay leaf, and some of the strained mussel liquid. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until it thickens and the flavors blend.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the mussels into the sauce, stir gently, and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Variations You Can Try
- Spicy Marinera: Add chili flakes for a kick.
- Galician Style: Use albariño wine and smoked paprika.
- Creamy Marinera: Add a splash of cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Why You Should Try Mejillones a la Marinera
- High in protein and low in fat
- A true taste of coastal Spain
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for tapas nights or dinner parties
This dish brings together bold Mediterranean flavors in a way that’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough to serve guests.
Conclusion
Mejillones a la Marinera is a celebration of Spanish seafood cuisine. Its rustic simplicity, rich sauce, and quick preparation make it a favorite dish across the Iberian Peninsula. Whether served as a tapa or a main dish, these mussels are sure to impress.
Buen provecho!
Explore more traditional Spanish recipes on our blog—Bacalao a la Vizcaína each dish tells a delicious story Gambas al Ajillo from every corner of Spain.