Tomato Mussels

Tomato Mussels

Indulge in a taste of the Mediterranean with this Tomato Mussels recipe—a delightful fusion of succulent seafood and vibrant flavors that promises to elevate any dining experience. Paired with crusty bread or served atop a bed of al dente pasta, these plump mussels simmered in a rich tomato broth offer a tantalizing blend of sweetness and acidity, which make them perfect for a dinner party with friends or family.

Beyond their exquisite taste, the health benefits of whole canned tomatoes take center stage in this recipe for Tomato Mussels. Bursting with lycopene—an antioxidant known for its potential in promoting bone health, protecting against heart disease and reducing the risk of certain cancers—canned tomatoes lend not only robust flavor but also a nutritional boost to this meal. Moreover, this recipe exemplifies simplicity at its finest, offering a quick and easy dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated yet delicious dining. 

How to cook mussels

Cooking mussels may sound intimating, but it doesn’t need to be! Here are a few easy steps to ensure you make the perfect mussels every time.

  1. Rinse the mussels under cold water, scrubbing them with a brush to remove any debris or sand, and discard any with broken shells or those that do not close when tapped, as they may not be fresh. Once cleaned, check the freshness of the mussels by ensuring their shells are tightly closed or that they close when tapped—if any remain open, they may be dead and should be discarded.
  2. In a large pot, bring your water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cleaned mussels to the pot and cover with a lid.
  3. Check after 3 minutes and remove any open mussels. Continue to boil, uncovering the pot as necessary to remove the mussels as soon as their shells open. Discard any that do not open.

Are mussels good for you?

Yes, mussels are good for you, as they are highly nutritious and offer several health benefits. They are an excellent source of protein and are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, selenium, zinc, and iron. Furthermore, mussels are low in fat and calories, making them a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. However, it’s essential to ensure that mussels are sourced from clean waters and cooked properly to avoid potential contamination and foodborne illness.

Learn how to make this recipe here. 

 

Try the NEW Tomato Wellness cookbook!

Discover our array of diverse recipes, each designed to bring the warmth of traditional family dining to your table. These meals are not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly, making them perfect for busy households. Tailored to please every palate, our recipes cater to both individual tastes and family-wide preferences. Developed by our multicultural culinary team, these dishes offer a celebration of global flavors, ensuring nutritious, easy-to-make, and affordable meals for you and your family.

Get this recipe, and other budget-friendly meals, in our cookbook!

Tomato Mussels

Tomato Mussels

Paired with crusty bread or served atop a bed of al dente pasta, these plump mussels simmered in a rich tomato broth offer a tantalizing blend of sweetness and acidity, which make them perfect for a dinner party with friends or family.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

  • ¼ Cup Olive Oil
  • 1 Medium White Onion, Finely Chopped
  • 6 Cloves Garlic, Minced
  • 3 tbsp. Chopped Fresh Parsley, Plus More For Finishing
  • 1 (28-Oz) Can Whole Tomatoes, Drained And Chopped
  • ¼ tsp. Dried Thyme
  • ¼ tsp. Red-Pepper Flakes
  • 4 Pounds Mussels, Scrubbed And Debearded
  • ⅛ tsp. Ground Black Pepper
  • Kosher Salt, To Taste
  • Toasted Bread, Preferably Whole Grain (Optional)

Instructions

    1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-low heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 8 minutes. Stir in the parsley, tomatoes, thyme and red-pepper flakes. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    2. When cleaning mussels, discard any that have broken shells or that don’t clamp shut when tapped. Add the mussels to the pot, bring to a boil and cover. Cook, shaking the pot occasionally, just until the mussels open. Check after 3 minutes and remove any open mussels. Continue to boil, uncovering the pot as necessary to remove the mussels as soon as their shells open. Discard any that do not open.
    3. Stir the black pepper into the broth. Taste the broth and, if needed, add salt. Ladle the broth over the mussels and serve with the toasted bread. Enjoy!

Notes

  • You need quite a large pot to make this recipe, but if you don’t have one big enough, you can always halve the recipe (so it serves 2) and make it in a pot such as one you might use to boil pasta.
  • Recipe approved by Ellie Krieger, Culinary Nutritionist (RD) for Tomato Wellness.com

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

20 mussels

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 370Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 590mgCarbohydrates: 20gFiber: 3gSugar: 5gProtein: 29g

 

Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Transform the humble spaghetti squash into a culinary masterpiece with this recipe for Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. This flavorful dish is great to serve on any night of the week (as you can whip it up in no time), yet it also packs a nutritional punch, thanks to the inclusion of canned tomatoes and tomato sauce.

Tomatoes are a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene. Lycopene, in particular, has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. The canned tomatoes and tomato sauce used in this recipe contribute not only to the vibrant color and robust flavor but also to the nutritional value of the dish.

The succulent, roasted spaghetti squash also serves as the perfect canvas for a flavorful filling. So, what are you waiting for? Try out this recipe for Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash for a meal that will treat your taste buds and nourish your body. Learn how to make this recipe here.

 

Try the NEW Tomato Wellness cookbook!

Discover our array of diverse recipes, each designed to bring the warmth of traditional family dining to your table. These meals are not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly, making them perfect for busy households. Tailored to please every palate, our recipes cater to both individual tastes and family-wide preferences. Developed by our multicultural culinary team, these dishes offer a celebration of global flavors, ensuring nutritious, easy-to-make, and affordable meals for you and your family.

Get this spaghetti squash recipe, and other budget-friendly meals, in our cookbook!

Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Transform the humble spaghetti squash into a culinary masterpiece with this recipe for Tomato Basil Stuffed Spaghetti Squash.

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 Medium Whole Spaghetti Squash
  • 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil, Divided
  • 1/8 Tsp. Kosher Salt
  • Pinch Ground Black Pepper
  • ½ Tsp. Garlic Powder
  • ½ Medium Yellow Onion, Diced
  • 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
  • ¼ Tsp. Dried Thyme
  • ½ Tsp. Dried Oregano
  • 1 (14.5 Oz) Can Diced Tomatoes, Preferably Fire-Roasted
  • 1 (8 Oz) Can No-Salt-Added Tomato Sauce
  • 1 (15.5 Oz) Can Cannellini Beans, Drained And Rinsed
  • ¼ Cup Chopped Fresh Basil, For Serving

Instructions

    1. To prepare the squash, preheat your oven to 375° F. Use a sharp knife to trim the top and bottom of the squash off and slice the squash in half lengthwise. Scrape out the seeds with a spoon.
    2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Brush the inside of the squash with 1 Tbsp. olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch each of the salt and pepper. Place the squash, cut side down, on the baking sheet. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the squash skin is tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Allow the squash to cool down enough to handle, and then use a fork to scrape out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder and more salt and pepper to taste. Return spaghetti squash to hollowed out skin so that the skin becomes a bowl for the filling.
    3. While the squash roasts, make the sauce. Heat the remaining olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add in the garlic and saute for another 2 minutes, adding a splash of water if the onions are sticking. Add the thyme, oregano, the remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt, pepper to taste, tomatoes, tomato sauce and beans to the pot and stir them well. Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 10 minutes, uncovered, or until the sauce has thickened. Taste sauce and adjust seasonings as desired.
    4. Top spaghetti squash with sauce and sprinkle with chopped basil. Enjoy!

Notes

  • This tomato and bean sauce is not only delicious with spaghetti squash, it’s also excellent served over a baked potato, rice or pasta.
  • Recipe approved by Ellie Krieger, Culinary Nutritionist (RD) for Tomato Wellness.com

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

2 servings

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 440Total Fat: 19 gSaturated Fat: 2.5 gSodium: 730mgCarbohydrates: 61gFiber: 15gSugar: 23gProtein: 13g

 

Veggie Loaded American Goulash

Veggie Loaded American Goulash

Bursting with flavor and filled with hearty ingredients, this recipe for Veggie Loaded American Goulash is sure to be a crowd favorite! This hearty one-pot wonder is not only a feast for the taste buds, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse thanks to the array of vegetables and canned tomatoes. Studies have found that canned tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Alongside their rich flavor, canned tomatoes provide a burst of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate – all of which can contribute to overall health.

This Veggie Loaded American Goulash offers a hassle-free solution that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of goodness that’s as nourishing as it is delicious! Learn how to make this recipe here.

 

Try the NEW Tomato Wellness cookbook!

Discover our array of diverse recipes, each designed to bring the warmth of traditional family dining to your table. These meals are not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly, making them perfect for busy households. Tailored to please every palate, our recipes cater to both individual tastes and family-wide preferences. Developed by our multicultural culinary team, these dishes offer a celebration of global flavors, ensuring nutritious, easy-to-make, and affordable meals for you and your family.

Get this recipe, and other budget-friendly meals, in our cookbook!

Veggie Loaded American Goulash

Veggie Loaded American Goulash

This Veggie Loaded American Goulash offers a hassle-free solution that's perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of goodness that's as nourishing as it is delicious!

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Elbow Macaroni, Preferably Whole Grain
  • 2 tbsp. Olive Oil, Divided
  • 1 Medium Yellow Onion, Diced
  • 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
  • 1 Small Yellow Squash, Diced
  • ½ Cup Broccoli (Fresh Or Frozen), Cut Into Small Florets
  • 1 lb. Ground Beef 90% Lean
  • 8 Button Mushrooms, Halved And Sliced
  • 1 tsp. Dried Basil
  • 1 tsp. Dried Oregano
  • ½ tsp. Kosher Salt
  • ½ tsp. Ground Black Pepper
  • 3-4 Cups Low-Sodium Vegetable Juice (Such As V8), Divided
  • 1 (14.5 Oz) Can Diced Tomatoes
  • Kosher Salt And Ground Pepper (Optional)

Instructions

    1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Set aside. Meanwhile, add 1 tablespoon oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat until hot. Add onion and saute for 3-4 minutes, or until soft, stirring frequently. Add garlic, squash and broccoli to the skillet and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally; set aside.
    2. In a large sauce pot, heat remaining tablespoon of oil over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef and cook for 5 minutes, breaking up the meat, until beef is browned and mostly cooked through. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 more minutes. Add in the squash mixture.
    3. Mix in the basil, oregano, salt, pepper, 3 cups of the vegetable juice and the tomatoes. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Add in pasta and stir to combine. Add additional vegetable juice if desired and more salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Make this meal vegetarian by using two cans of beans (any type) drained and
    rinsed, instead of the beef.
  • Recipe approved by Ellie Krieger, Culinary Nutritionist (RD) for Tomato Wellness.com

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

About 2 heaping cups

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 540Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 470mgCarbohydrates: 75gFiber: 2gSugar: 11gProtein: 29g

Check out some of our other favorite comfort food meals:

Zucchini Rollups

Zucchini Rollups

Are you on the hunt for healthy zucchini recipes that are not only delicious but also versatile for all seasons? Look no further! These Zucchini Rollups are a delightful and nutritious option that combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with the health benefits of canned tomatoes. Packed with flavors and nutrients, this recipe is a perfect addition to your collection of wholesome meals.

This recipe for Zucchini Rollups is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants thanks to the fresh zucchini and canned tomatoes. While there are many health benefits associated with both of these ingredients, research shows that the lycopene content in tomatoes has been linked to various health benefits, including heart health and a reduced risk of prostate cancer

So, what are you waiting for? Give these Zucchini Rollups a try this week for a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any season! Learn how to make this recipe here

 

Try the NEW Tomato Wellness cookbook!

Discover our array of diverse recipes, each designed to bring the warmth of traditional family dining to your table. These meals are not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly, making them perfect for busy households. Tailored to please every palate, our recipes cater to both individual tastes and family-wide preferences. Developed by our multicultural culinary team, these dishes offer a celebration of global flavors, ensuring nutritious, easy-to-make, and affordable meals for you and your family.

Get this recipe, and other budget-friendly meals, in our cookbook!

Zucchini Rollups

Zucchini Rollups

These Zucchini Rollups are a delightful and nutritious option that combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with the health benefits of canned tomatoes.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 Large Zucchini, Ends Trimmed
  • 2 Tsp. Olive Oil
  • 8 Tbsp. Shredded Part Skim Mozzarella Cheese, Divided
  • 1 Large Egg, Lightly Beaten
  • 1⅓ Cups Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
  • 1 10 Oz Package Frozen Spinach, Thawed And Squeezed Dry
  • 1 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
  • ¼ Tsp. Ground Black Pepper
  • ⅛ Tsp. Kosher Salt
  • ¾ Cup Low-Sodium Marinara Sauce, Divided Or The Marinara Sauce On Page000
  • 2 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning

Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and position racks in upper and lower thirds of the oven.
    2. Slice zucchini lengthwise as thin as possible to get 20 total strips, about ⅛ inch thick each. Toss the zucchini in olive oil and arrange in a single layer on 2 rimmed baking sheets. Bake the zucchini, turning once, until tender, about 10 minutes total.
    3. Meanwhile, combine 6 Tbsp. mozzarella, egg, cottage cheese, spinach, garlic powder, black pepper and kosher salt in a medium bowl.
    4. Spread ¼ cup marinara in an 8-inch square baking dish. Place 1 Tbsp. of the cottage cheese mix near the bottom of the strip of zucchini. Roll it up and place, standing up, in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and filling. Top the rolls with the remaining ½ cup marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
    5. Bake the zucchini until the cheese is bubbly, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle with more Italian seasoning, if desired, right before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

    • Serve this beautiful dish with a simple green salad and some crusty whole grain bread for sopping up every last bit of sauce.
    • Recipe approved by Ellie Krieger, Culinary Nutritionist (RD) for Tomato Wellness.com

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

5 rollups

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 220Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 570mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 4gSugar: 9gProtein: 21g
Toasted Ravioli with Vodka Dipping Sauce

Toasted Ravioli with Vodka Dipping Sauce

Toasted ravioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or the main course. Whip up this decadent and creamy Vodka Dipping Sauce, and it will taste just like going to a fancy restaurant, but from the comfort of your own home! 

As with most Italian sauces, the main flavor comes from tomatoes. Not only do tomatoes offer sweetness and acidity to this recipe, they have important health benefits. Cooked tomato products (found in canned tomato products) contain an ingredient called lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant that has been proven to protect the body against many chronic diseases. Similar to most nutrients, it’s more natural to obtain lycopene from foods rather than supplements. In order to achieve maximum health benefits associated with lycopene, it is recommended to consume tomato products with a heart healthy fat, such as olive oil or avocado. That’s why we recommend enjoying lycopene and its health benefits through delicious foods such as this recipe. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy some canned tomato products today with this tasty recipe for Toasted Ravioli!

Toasted Ravioli with Vodka Dipping Sauce

Toasted Ravioli with Vodka Dipping Sauce

Toasted ravioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or the main course. Whip up this decadent and creamy Vodka Dipping Sauce, and it will taste just like going to a fancy restaurant, but without the added cost.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 (19 oz.) package four cheese ravioli
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 ¼ tsp. red chili flakes
  • 2 Tbsp. vodka
  • ¾ cup tomato paste
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. heavy cream
  • 1 Tbsp. butter
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add in the shallot, garlic, and ¼ teaspoon of the red chili flakes.
  2. When the shallots turn translucent, mix in the tomato paste and tomato sauce. Cook down for 5-10 minutes. Then add in the vodka and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the alcohol reduces. Mix in the heavy cream, butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside.
  3. Fill a pot with a few inches of vegetable oil. Heat it to 350˚F.
  4. Add the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs into separate dishes. Dip the raviolis into the egg and allow any excess liquid to drip off. Then place them into the breadcrumbs. Fully coat the raviolis in breadcrumbs then gently place them into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and toasted. Remove the raviolis from the oil and onto a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain. Sprinkle them with salt.
  5. Serve the toasted raviolis with the vodka dipping sauce and enjoy!
For other delicious pasta recipes, check out some of our favorites:

Puttanesca Pasta
Pasta with Marinara and Roasted Vegetables
Walnut and Mushroom Ragu