Clean the mussels thoroughly under cold water, removing any beards and discarding any that are open and do not close when tapped.
1 kg fresh mussels
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion, 2 cloves garlic
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
400 g chopped tomatoes, 1 tbsp tomato paste
Add the sugar, oregano, and basil, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the mussels to the pot. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels have opened. Discard any that remain closed.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
1/4 bunch fresh parsley
Notes
Wine Pairing and Side Dishes:- Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the dish. - Side Dishes: Consider crusty bread or a fresh baguette to soak up the sauce, and a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic butter spaghetti for a balanced meal.