Mussels A La Family Crisis

1. 1

   Start the pasta water: bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. 2

   While the water is heating, add the olive oil, red pepper flakes and onion to a large skillet. Cook on medium heat, until onions become soft.

3. 3

   Add the garlic and saute until the garlic becomes fragrant, about a minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for another two minutes.

4. 4

   Pour in the white wine and tomato sauce - stir gently until the mixture begins to simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low. (If all diners are ok with the olives, add them to the sauce now. If there are anti-olive people in your home, go ahead and just top the finished dish with a few olives before serving for those who desire to consume the briny goodness.)

5. 5

   At this point, the pasta water should be ready. Add pasta to pot and stir gently.

6. 6

   While pasta is cooking, add the mussels to the sauce. Cover the pot while the mussels cook and open.

7. 7

   Drain the pasta and return to the pasta pot. Toss with the butter.

8. 8

   Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper. Place the pasta in bowls, spooning plenty of sauce and mussels in each.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.