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MY FAVORITE WAY TO COOK MUSSELS – SIMPLE, ELEGANT & DELICIOUS

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
MY FAVORITE WAY TO COOK MUSSELS – SIMPLE, ELEGANT & DELICIOUS

MY FAVORITE WAY TO COOK MUSSELS – SIMPLE, ELEGANT & DELICIOUS

Discover the perfect method to prepare fresh mussels, steamed gently in a fragrant garlic, white wine, and parsley sauce. This classic recipe is ideal for a romantic dinner or an impressive seafood feast. Paired with fresh bread and a glass of the same white wine used in cooking, it brings the flavors of the sea right to your table.

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min

🍳 Cook Time: 15 min
🍽️ Servings: 2-3

🥄 Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg fresh mussels
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 generous tbsp unsalted butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 100 ml dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, or Chardonnay recommended)
  • 1/2 small bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Clean the mussels: Place mussels in a bowl of cold water. Clean each by removing the “beards” by pulling firmly opposite the hinge. Scrub shells thoroughly with a wire sponge under running water. Use a knife to remove stubborn calcium deposits. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped. Rinse several times and drain well.
  2. Prepare the sauce base: Heat olive oil and butter in a large wide pan. Add 4 crushed garlic cloves and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and bring to a boil.
  3. Cook mussels: Add mussels to the pan and stir to coat. Cover with a lid and steam for 5 minutes. Check if all mussels have opened; if not, stir gently, cover, and cook for up to 5 more minutes. Discard any unopened mussels.
  4. Finish the sauce: Remove mussels with a slotted spatula onto a large serving plate. Increase heat to high and boil remaining liquid for 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Add remaining crushed garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve: Pour sauce over mussels. Serve immediately with fresh crusty bread and lemon wedges. Enjoy with a glass of the white wine used in cooking. For less bread consumption, use an empty mussel shell as a spoon to sip the sauce or serve over pasta.

💡 Tips

  • Always discard mussels that remain closed after cooking for safety.
  • Use fresh, good-quality white wine for best flavor.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy mussels at their best texture and taste.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Romantic dinners
  • Special occasions and celebrations
  • Mediterranean-inspired seafood meals
  • Quick and impressive dinner parties

📝 Final Thoughts

This simple yet exquisite mussel recipe captures the essence of coastal dining with minimal effort. The balance of garlic, wine, and fresh herbs enhances the natural briny sweetness of the mussels, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or an intimate meal. Share it with loved ones for a memorable seafood experience.