Welcome to my monthly blog post where I create a simple intention based on a monthly card reading! If this intention resonates with you, feel free to use it as a focus for this month (or however long feels right for you)!
When I pulled the cards for this month, it was like magic. Such a beautiful message that I think we can all benefit from and that most of us struggle with on a daily basis.
Read below for the full card reading and take what feels good for you and leave the rest. Messages are meant to find you in the most peculiar ways when you're willing to notice and listen ;)
Some things to keep in mind when using an intention:
- Write it down and put it where you can see it regularly (bathroom mirror, desk, beside table, wallet, etc).
- Say it several times a day clearly affirming it - you can stand in a power pose (like running across the finish line), hands on hips (like Wonder Woman), placing your hands on your heart, or even doing a little dance. Whatever makes you feel like this intention is possible when you say it, then do that!
- Visualize for just a few minutes each day your intention as if it has already come true.
- Practice your favourite Yoga Nidra meditation that allows you to state your intention during the practice. When the mind and body are relaxed, your mind is much more susceptible to suggestions, so this can help make this intention become true for you even quicker than by doing it on a conscious level alone.
- If you haven't done so already, you can sign up to receive access to listen to my free Yoga Nidra meditation here.
Intention Setting Reading
1st Card - Self-LOVE
What does self-love mean to you? You may often find yourself looking for love from other people. It is common to feel validated, special and worthy when you feel that love coming from someone else. But what is stopping you from giving yourself the same love, validation and worthiness you seek from others? We often find fault with ourselves and we're usually our own worst critics. We say things to ourselves that we wouldn't even dream of saying to someone else. I'm hoping this reading inspires you to be kinder, more compassionate, loving and accepting of yourself. Love doesn't have to be something we wait to give ourselves when we reach a certain goal or look/feel a certain way. It starts right now in this moment. Love who you are, and speak kindly to yourself. When you start loving and accepting yourself (without changing a thing), you can share love and acceptance with others in a much more authentic way. We want our children, family and friends to love who they are because we see the beauty in each and every one of them....wouldn't it be divine if we felt the same way about ourselves? You are important, you are loved and you are enough just as you are!
2nd Card - JUDGEMENT (20)
The judgement card brings a time of awakening! You are being called to rise up and transform what isn't serving you anymore. This is a time of reflection and new awareness. If we look at the judgement card with the lens of self-love, you are being invited to reflect on how you feel about yourself and how you believe others view you. Are you living your truth and being who you really want to be? Or are you wearing a mask and hiding from your true potential? We often feel that we have to live "small" in order to not upset or feel as though we're "outshining" others, but this isn't living with integrity to the truth of who you really are. Shine your light and experience true love of thyself. Sometimes it can be difficult to transform these old negative belief patterns, so seek support if needed to help you get through this transition. You deserve to be happy and to live in a way that brings you joy. Don't dim your light for the sake of others. Be loving, kind and compassionate to yourself and others and see how your life and experiences unfold for you.
3rd Card - queen of wands
Oh this Queen, how I love her so!! She is one of my favourite cards in the entire Tarot because she is unapologetically herself! This is another reason I love these cards so much. They truly bring forth the most inspiring and insightful messages! The Queen of Wands couldn't have been a more appropriate card for this focus of self-love. She shines her light and follows her passion even though she may experience difficulties or fears. In tandem with her own personal growth and struggles, she still shows up and leads with confidence, enthusiasm and charisma! She fills the room with her light, wisdom and fun loving energy. She's the type of person you inspire to be like and is a warm and nurturing mentor. She's fiery, fun and confident. Use the energy of this Queen to shine brighter and show up exactly as you are!! Turn to this energy for self confidence and strength to enjoy life and follow your passions. Her energy is contagious and she can take on any task. This Queen encourages you to believe in yourself, take ownership of your personal power and know your worth and beauty inside and out.
4th Card - 2 of pentacles
The two of pentacles brings with it a message of balance. What are you trying to juggle and balance in your life now? How are you managing with priorities at this time? This is an invitation to reflect on how you're coping with your priorities and where you can create more balance. When we look at the 2 of Pentacles with a lens of self-love, what is out of balance when it comes to self-love and acceptance for you? Are you taking time for your own self-care? With the infinity sign, we can look at this card as wanting to be perfect and if we don't see ourselves in this way, then maybe we feel like we just aren't worthy of our own love and acceptance. Connect deeply with your heart and sense the energy of love. Feel this loving energy permeate throughout your whole being and know that you are worthy and deserving of love, but you must first experience this love from within. Prioritize your commitments and ensure there are activities that align with taking care of yourself like meditation/relaxation practices, and moving your body in a way that feels right for you.
A little extra insight.....
How often do you praise and say nice things to yourself? This entire reading is based around reflecting on how you see yourself, the actions you've been taking and how you show up every single day. The focus is self-love, and the judgement card is giving you permission to awaken to the magnificence of who you truly are! You are amazing and don't be afraid to shine. Be the best version of you, not what you think others want you to be. JUST BE YOU! The Queen of Wands is confident, and she knows all about self-love. She is kind and fun and can handle anything even though it may be scary. Take your cue from her and lead with ❤️ love and grace. If you don't have time for self-care, then the 2 of Pentacles is pointing that out now....Reflect on your priorities and what you say "yes" and "no" to. Are you saying "yes" to yourself? Are you making yourself a priority? If not, then it's time to make some new plans and fit it in.
questions you can contemplate: 🤔
- What does self-love mean to you?
- What are some kind things you can say to yourself? Can you look in the mirror and say those kind things? If not, why?
- How do you want to be seen?
- How do you see yourself?
- Is there a part of you that needs forgiveness in order to feel acceptance?
- How can you shine your light more brightly?
- What are you passionate about? What is holding you back from pursuing at least one of those passions?
- What are you trying to juggle in your life right now?
- Do you make yourself a priority? If not, what is one thing you can start doing to make yourself a priority?
If you enjoyed this post, consider booking a live session with me (via zoom) or an email card reading.
BTW - If you're not on my email list, make sure you're on it so you don't miss a thing. As a thank you, you'll receive access to my FREE Yoga Nidra meditation designed for deep relaxation. I promise to never spam you or sell/share your email address (cause that's just not nice) and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Cards from this reading:
Card 1 - Daily Rituals Oracle by Jackie Morgan
Cards 2, 3 & 4 - White Sage Tarot by Theresa Hutch
The information presented here is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The information in this post is subject to interpretation and is an expression of opinion. It is not intended for, and does not replace professional, medical, legal, business, and/or health related opinions and advice. It is not a substitute for counselling or any other type of therapy, or medical advice from qualified professionals.
Welcome to my monthly blog post where I create a simple intention based on a monthly card reading for my community! If this intention resonates with you, feel free to use it as a focus for this month (or however long feels right for you)!
Read below for the full card reading and take what feels good for you and leave the rest. Messages are meant to find you in the most peculiar ways when you're willing to notice and listen ;)
Some things to keep in mind when using an intention:
- Write it down and put it where you can see it regularly (bathroom mirror, desk, beside table, wallet, etc).
- Say it several times a day clearly affirming it - you can stand in a power pose (like running across the finish line), hands on hips (like Wonder Woman), placing your hands on your heart, or even doing a little dance. Whatever makes you feel like this intention is possible when you say it, then do that!
- Visualize for just a few minutes each day your intention as if it has already come true.
- Practice your favourite Yoga Nidra meditation that allows you to state your intention during the practice. When the mind and body are relaxed, your mind is much more susceptible to suggestions, so this can help make this intention become true for you even quicker than by doing it on a conscious level alone.
- If you haven't done so already, you can sign up to receive access to listen to my free Yoga Nidra meditation here.
APRIL 2023 Intention Setting Reading
1st Card - Balanced life
What does a balanced life mean to you? Is it balancing work and home? Is it balancing daily commitments with having more fun? Is it balancing your spiritual and physical practices? Perhaps it's balancing time indoors with being in nature. Living a balanced life can mean something different for each one of us. See where you need more balance in your life. Sometimes balance can be about noticing what you are clinging to from a materialistic perspective, and seeing how you can loosen your grip to material possessions or what you think you need in life to be happy. Perhaps focusing on the breath will help you to balance. Try this short practice......Inhale calm, exhale peace.....
2nd Card - PAGE OF CUPS
Oh this sweet little Otter. Does she get any cuter with her cup of turmeric ginger chai? The Page of Cups reminds you to follow your dreams and use your imagination! She is looking into the past and maybe wondering if any of those dreams she had have actually come true? Take this time to notice what brings you joy and how you can fit that into your life using balance as your intention. Use your creativity and lean into your intuition to make a plan and take a step in the direction of your dreams! Connect with your inner child and have some fun. Dare to dream the impossible!
3rd Card - 21 - THE WORLD
The world card brings promises of successful endings and new beginnings. Where are you in this current cycle? We go through many cycles in life wether they be relationships, careers, emotions and attaining certain goals, etc. At this time, you have the world in your hands and if you're nearing or at the end of a cycle, take some time to relax and enjoy this time of completion. If you're at the beginning, know that you have the ability to create success and make monumental achievements. If this cycle has been difficult for you (which most journeys have their bumps in the road), applaud how far you've come and celebrate your success. Envision positive outcomes and focus on your desires and strengths. How can you find time for celebration in your current situation? Is there anyone you can show appreciation to for helping you to get to this point? Perhaps a gesture of gratitude is in order.
4th Card - 12 - HANGED MAN
Oh this caterpillar! How sweet the transformation will be. The Hanged Man (caterpillar) needs to take time and surrender to this process so the ultimate transformation to a beautiful butterfly can occur. This card suggests taking a "time out", or an intentional pause so that you can see your current situation from a different perspective. This is my "downward facing dog" card. When I teach yoga and we're in downward facing dog, I often tell my students that it's good to be upside down once in a while, because you see things from a totally different perspective.
What can you do at this time to surrender to what is, and take a break? When we take time to pause and reflect, we can gain clarity. If you're thinking about a major change right now, this could be an invitation to take some more time for reflection and insight. When we are silent, we listen...... When you're open to new possibilities, often new opportunities arise.
JUMPER CARD - QUEEN OF SWORDS
Ok, so what's a jumper card? This Queen of Swords popped out of the deck right side up when I was shuffling for this reading. Often when jumpers appear when I'm shuffling, it's a good chance this card wants to be part of this reading and this Queen is no exception!
I love how all of these cards play on each other with our main intention of balance. The Queen of Swords uses her intellect to make decisions and she is extremely knowledgeable! People come to the Queen for help and although she may seem cold, she can nurture you with information and courage. She is a warrior and isn't afraid to take action, but the action is well thought out. In this theme of balance, dreams, successful endings and taking a time to pause, she is here to guide you and encourage you to be brave, speak your truth and take the next steps towards a more balanced and harmonious life. And that could involve setting boundaries with family, work and even friends so that you can take more time for yourself. It's important to find balance and harmony in your life, so take the courage of this Queen and do what you need to create a life that brings you more joy, peace and calm. But don't forget to speak your truth in a compassionate and kind way....sometimes words can wound others, just like swords can....
A little extra insight.....
Balance and harmony are the key messages in this reading. Use the youthful, imagination of the Page of Cups to bring balance into your life with doing some things you really enjoy - or something that you've been dreaming about doing (like taking a painting class, doing yoga or finishing that crocheting project that you started last year)! Celebrate your success so far with The World card and even if you're not at the end of your current journey, envision a successful outcome and celebrate your steps along the way! You've got this! The Hanged Man is inviting you to take a pause and reflect. This could be on how to incorporate balance and harmony into your life with your dreams and celebrating your successes. And our mighty Queen of Swords will help you speak your truth, build confidence and bravery and set boundaries to cultivate this balance so you can live in harmony with your dreams and desires! Remember though to have compassion and kindness for yourself and others so you can find balance in the most harmonious way!
questions you can contemplate: 🤔
- Where do you feel out of balance in your life at this time?
- What were some things you loved to do as a child? Think about taking that as inspiration to do something fun or rekindle a nostalgic pastime.
- What can you do to celebrate your achievements thus far?
- How you can you make time for reflection and see things from a different perspective?
- What are some steps you can take to live with more balance and harmony?
- If you are lacking boundaries right now, how can you establish healthy boundaries to live with more balance and harmony?
- Are you speaking your truth? If not, how can you speak your truth in a compassionate and loving way?
If you enjoyed this post, consider booking a live session with me (via zoom) or an email card reading.
BTW - If you're not on my email list, make sure you're on it so you don't miss a thing. As a thank you, you'll receive access to my FREE Yoga Nidra meditation designed for deep relaxation. I promise to never spam you or sell/share your email address (cause that's just not nice) and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Cards from this reading:
Card 1 - Land Sky Oracle Deck by Theresa Hutch
Cards 2, 3, 4 & Jumper - White Sage Tarot by Theresa Hutch
The information presented here is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The information in this post is subject to interpretation and is an expression of opinion. It is not intended for, and does not replace professional, medical, legal, business, and/or health related opinions and advice. It is not a substitute for counselling or any other type of therapy, or medical advice from qualified professionals.
Spring is a time for new beginnings! Having recently welcomed Spring 2023 in the Northern Hemisphere, I have created a new intention based on a card reading for this spring season. If this intention resonates with you, feel free to use it as a focus for this spring season (or whatever time frame suits your fancy)!
Read below for the full card reading and take what feels good for you and leave the rest. Messages are meant to find you in the most peculiar ways when you're willing to notice and listen ;)
Some things to keep in mind when using an intention:
- Write it down and put it where you can see it regularly (bathroom mirror, desk, beside table, wallet, etc).
- Say it several times a day clearly affirming it - you can stand in a power pose (like running across the finish line), hands on hips (like Wonder Woman), placing your hands on your heart, or even doing a little dance. Whatever makes you feel like this intention is possible when you say it, then do that!
- Visualize for just a few minutes each day your intention as if it has already come true.
- Practice your favourite Yoga Nidra meditation that allows you to state your intention during the practice. When the mind and body are relaxed, your mind is much more susceptible to suggestions, so this can help make this intention become true for you even quicker than by doing it on a conscious level alone.
- If you haven't done so already, you can sign up to receive access to listen to my free Yoga Nidra meditation here.
spring 2023 Intention Setting Reading
1st Card - PATIENCE
This card is an invitation to experience more patience. Are you waiting for something to happen and feeling the lack of not having it? If you look at welcoming spring, quite often you want to pass right over spring and rush into summer (especially if you live in a colder climate like Canada). Us Canadians live for summer and we sometimes take spring for granted because we want it over with so we can get outside and enjoy the warmer weather that summer brings. When I see this card, it's also a reminder to be in the present moment. Quite often you look for something in the future that will bring you happiness (example, summer). You think you need something outside of you to bring you joy. But the truth is, we can feel joy in any moment when we choose to feel that way. Just seeing the sun shining or noticing the hyacinth flowers that are beginning to bloom underneath the snowy ground can spark that joy inside of us. Joy is a state of being. Joy isn't something that we have to wait for. If you're currently in a state of waiting for something, what can you do in the meantime to experience joy without having what it is you're waiting for? Some things cannot be forced or made to happen before the timing is right. Trust that everything will happen through Divine timing and you may find relief when you release your resistance to not having it just yet.....
2nd Card - 5 OF FIRE
Are you being held back by your perceived limitations? You may be having thoughts that make you feel like you're in a jousting competition. Your thoughts may be competing for your attention, so you may want to be cognizant of the thoughts that are taking up the most space in your mind at this time. This could be a time to acknowledge what's coming up for you and to decide if these thoughts are in conflict with your desires. If they are, you may want to find ways to release the thoughts that are no longer serving you and transform them to help you move forward. Are these thoughts related to the past or the future? This could be a road sign to pay attention to your thoughts so you can enjoy the precious present moment. When you regret the past or worry about the future, you can cause your own suffering. When you make a choice to be present in this moment and find something to be grateful for it can quickly and easily raise your vibration! Notice any inner or external conflicts that are arising and try to see the bigger picture of what is really going on from a neutral standpoint. If you're struggling with some type of conflict at this time, know that with patience, it will pass.
3rd Card - 0 - THE LEAP
This card brings me so much joy. As I'm interpreting the overall messages of the cards in this Spring Intention Reading, we have the rabbit leaping forward! And since Easter is right around the corner, I see this bunny as a sign of leaping into Spring and celebrating time with family and friends and nature. If we look at this card with the overall meaning of patience, we can see it as a sign to really be present in this moment. When you decide to be more conscious of this moment, it doesn't mean you cannot continue to move forward or that you don't ever have to make plans, but there is always a time and place for making plans or thinking about taking action. You don't have to think about it 24/7 (like most of us do). We are leaping into spring and new beginnings. Don't be afraid to start something new at this time or go for something that seems impossible. As you move forward on this journey, find ways to enjoy the journey. You don't have to rush to get to where you want to go. Notice what makes you smile and enjoy that moment.
4th Card - 8 OF AIR
Is there something that is making you feel trapped right now? If so, you're not alone. Many of us feel like we're stuck in a situation that we are not sure how to get out of. It's a mental tug of war between what you feel and how that is being reflected back to you. You may very well have more options that you thought, but it's hard to see these opportunities when our minds are clouded with the stories that we hold. Insert patience here.....take some time to reflect on these thoughts that may be making you feel stuck, and engage in self-care practices that allow you some space to see things from a different perspective. When we take time to listen (to ourselves in a quiet space), we are able to see new opportunities or insights that we couldn't see before. And of course, this too shall pass with patience and compassion for yourself.
A little extra insight.....
Is there something that you are wanting to do, but afraid to take action? The Leap card is inviting you to take a leap of faith, but the 5 of Fire and 8 of Air have you pondering the struggles you may think you have to go through to make it happen. Sometimes your thoughts are your own worst enemy. Feelings of fear, judgement or failure can keep you from moving forward. This is a time to really contemplate what is holding you back and how you can shift your thoughts to your desires instead of your fears. You may also be feeling impatient about something. You may wish to reflect on what is making you so impatient. How can you use this as an opportunity to be grateful for this moment and to enjoy the journey. Life is a marathon, not a sprint. Have more fun! Spring is a time for new beginnings after all....
questions you can contemplate: 🤔
- What is something that you can appreciate in this moment?
- Are you struggling to see the bigger picture in your present situation? If so, how can you look at it from a different perspective?
- Are you impatient about something that you want to do or somewhere you want to go? If so, why?
- How can you enjoy the journey a little bit more even if you haven't arrived at your destination just yet?
- What burdensome thoughts are preventing you from seeing this situation more clearly?
- What new choice and/or thought can you make to improve this situation?
- You have the power to choose your thoughts! What positive thoughts can you choose now?
- What can you do to find support and journey forward with a positive mind-set?
If you enjoyed this post, consider booking a live session with me (via zoom) or an email card reading.
BTW - If you're not on my email list, make sure you're on it so you don't miss a thing. As a thank you, you'll receive access to my FREE Yoga Nidra meditation designed for deep relaxation. I promise to never spam you or sell/share your email address (cause that's just not nice) and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Cards from this reading:
Card 1 - Messages From the Light Meditation Deck by Joyce Huntington
Cards 2, 3, 4 - The Sacred Web Tarot by Jannie Bui Brown, Illustrated by James Brown IV
The information presented here is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The information in this post is subject to interpretation and is an expression of opinion. It is not intended for, and does not replace professional, medical, legal, business, and/or health related opinions and advice. It is not a substitute for counselling or any other type of therapy, or medical advice from qualified professionals.
Welcome to my monthly blog where I create a simple intention based on a monthly card reading with you (my community) in mind. If this intention resonates with you, feel free to use it as a focus for this month (or whatever time frame suits your fancy)!
Some things to keep in mind when using an intention:
- Write it down and put it where you can see it regularly (bathroom mirror, desk, beside table, wallet, etc).
- Say it several times a day clearly affirming it - you can stand in a power pose (like running across the finish line), hands on hips (like Wonder Woman), placing your hands on your heart, or even doing a little dance. Whatever makes you feel like this intention is possible when you say it, then do that!
- Practice your favourite Yoga Nidra meditation that allows you to state your intention during the practice. When the mind and body are relaxed, your mind is much more susceptible to suggestions, so this can help make this intention become true for you even quicker than by doing it on a conscious level alone.
- If you haven't done so already, you can sign up to receive access to listen to my free Yoga Nidra meditation here.
March Intention Setting Reading
1st Card - A LEG UP
This card invites you to ask for and be willing to receive help. Having "a leg up" can help you to accomplish tasks more easily and can give you more time to do things that can nourish and support you. When you're bogged down by commitments and a to "do list" higher than Mount Everest, you don't make time for fun or self-care. Even taking a bath seems like too much wasted time.
2nd Card - Knight of PENTACLES
It looks like you've been diligently hard at work with little time for yourself. You're in the weeds of work, family and commitments, but not having a lot of fun. While work is important and necessary, what small steps are you taking to do more for you? The horse is this image isn't moving towards anything creative. But the figure on top of the horse is wearing pointe shoes which can indicate a passion for something other than your work at this time. Think about something you're passionate about and take one step in that direction.
3rd Card - KING of CUPS (Female)
Have you been busy nurturing others? If somebody needs help with something, or a shoulder to cry on, you're there! You provide a sense of emotional stability to others and even when the waters are rough, you find a safe space so they can sail their ship in calm waters. You are strong and nurturing. But......are you making time for your own nurturing? This King teaches you how to truly love and accept yourself as you are. This card is inviting you to seek out nurturing and compassionate practices for yourself! It's your turn to seek support from someone else who has your best interests in mind. How can you get help to nurture your own emotions and feel more stable and secure where you are? How can you love and accept yourself in this moment without changing a thing?
4th Card - THREE of WANDS
Once you've made the choice to ask/receive help, it's time to welcome and get ready for the opportunities that await! The Three of Wands shows you that once you've made the choice (to do something adventurous rather than staying in your comfort zone), you're on the lookout for the ship to sail in! In this case, the ship is to make time for things that nurture you (including having some fun). Look for opportunities to gather with those you love (maybe family, or a night with your best friends). This could also be about making a plan to set some time aside each day for self-care. The Three of Wands is about patience (not everything has to happen over night) and sticking to your plans. Be ready for opportunities (even though you may not be sure what they are just yet). You're on the lookout now for some fun and you're ready for some good ol' fashioned self-care!
A little extra insight.....
Water is a theme that is present in this reading when you look at the images in the cards. When you think of the element of water, it's flexible, fluid and ebbs and flows. It doesn't let obstacles get in its way, rather, it easily and naturally flows around them instead of trying to force its way through them. It's time to balance your inner water element by practicing self-care that makes you feel nurtured and calm. Water also helps you to flow through life with grace. This could be a time to let go of trying to control every situation, and just "go with the flow".
questions you can contemplate: 🤔
- Where in my life do I need more help?
- If it's hard for me to ask for help, why might that be?
- How can I nurture myself more?
- What self-care practices will help me feel more loving and accepting of myself?
- Where in my life is there flow?
- What do I find fun and how can I do more of that?
If you enjoyed this post, consider booking a live session with me (via zoom) or an email card reading.
BTW - If you're not on my email list, make sure you're on it so you don't miss a thing. As a thank you, you'll receive access to my FREE Yoga Nidra meditation designed for deep relaxation. I promise to never spam you or sell/share your email address (cause that's just not nice) and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Cards from this reading:
Card 1 - Wisdom of the Oracle by Colette Baron-Reid
Cards 2, 3, 4 - Tarot of Mystical Moments by Catrin Welz-Stein
The information presented here is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The information in this post is subject to interpretation and is an expression of opinion. It is not intended for, and does not replace professional, medical, legal, business, and/or health related opinions and advice. It is not a substitute for counselling or any other type of therapy, or medical advice from qualified professionals.
MUSSELS IN GARLIC, WHITE WINE AND ROSÉ SAUCE WITH RED PEPPERS AND ONIONS
If you love mussels, then this easy recipe is a must try! This is a definite go to for a quick and flavourful seafood dish without the hassle of long preparations and fussy ingredients. Quite frankly, I just wing it, but then had to document my steps and quantities so that I could create this recipe to share with other seafood aficionados!
My love affair with seafood is most likely because of my Portuguese background. I grew up eating seafood simmered in white wine, garlic, onions, parsley and hot pepper paste. Thinking about it makes my mouth water. This particular recipe isn't necessarily a Portuguese dish. I've added a few extra ingredients to make it richer and saucier (yes, that's a word - haha).
I normally serve these mussels over linguine, but of course, you can have them on their own. Just make sure you have something to soak up the sauce (your favourite pasta and/or crusty fresh bread is a match made in heaven). Once all of the mussels are gone, my husband Steve finishes the sauce with a spoon like he's eating soup!
Ingredients
- 2 TBSP olive oil
- 1 yellow onion sliced thin
- 1 red pepper sliced thin
- 2-3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 798 ml of good quality roma tomatoes in sauce
- (can be whole, diced or chopped)
- 1 TBSP Portuguese hot pepper paste or 1/2 tsp red pepper
- flakes
- 1 TSP salt (or to taste)
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup 35% whipping cream
- Approximately 3 lbs of fresh mussels rinsed and cleaned (discard any open or broken mussels before adding to sauce)
INSTRUCTIONS
Over medium heat, add olive oil to a large dutch oven or large pot. Add onion and pepper and stir occasionally until onions become translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and parsley to the pot and keep mixing for about 30 seconds to ensure garlic doesn't burn.
Carefully add white wine and simmer for about 5-10 minutes over medium heat until alcohol has evaporated and wine has reduced. Add tomatoes, hot pepper paste (or flakes), salt and pepper and stir to combine. Cover with lid and let simmer over medium to low heat for about 20-30 minutes stirring occasionally. If you are serving this dish with pasta, boil the water for your pasta at this point and cook pasta according to directions.
Once sauce has reduced, if desired, take a hand held blender and puree the sauce just a bit to thicken and combine even more. This step is optional, but I like to blend the sauce to incorporate the flavours and break up the tomatoes. Check for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Add whipping cream and allow to come to a gentle boil. Add the cleaned and rinsed mussels and cover for about 10-12 minutes. Stir mussels occasionally.
Once mussels are open, it's time to eat! They don't take long to cook so make sure you don't over cook them or they become a rubbery consistency..... and that's no bueno......Discard any unopened mussels.
Bon appetit!
The information presented here is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The information in this post is subject to interpretation and is an expression of opinion. It is not intended for, and does not replace professional, medical, legal, business, and/or health related opinions and advice. It is not a substitute for counselling or any other type of therapy, or medical advice from qualified professionals.
