Transport yourself to the sun-kissed coasts of the Mediterranean with this luxurious Creamy Garlic Mussels recipe. Brimming with bold flavors from white wine, butter, garlic, and a hint of chili heat, this dish is the epitome of simple yet elegant dining. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy, indulgent meal, these mussels promise to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) cleaned whole mussels
- 1 medium red onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 handful fresh dill, roughly chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) white wine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fish spice mix
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp tomato pesto
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes
Instructions
Prepare the Mussels
- Rinse and scrub the mussels under cold water, removing any beards. Discard any mussels that do not close when tapped.
Sauté the Base
- In a large, deep skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and crushed garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Build the Flavors
- Sprinkle in the fish spice mix, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Create the Sauce
- Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan. Add the tomato pesto and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Cook the Mussels
- Add the cleaned mussels to the pot. Cover with a lid and cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels open. Discard any that remain closed.
Finish with Dill
- Sprinkle the chopped dill over the mussels. Gently toss to combine and coat the mussels in the creamy sauce.
Serve
- Transfer the mussels to a large serving bowl. Serve immediately with crusty bread or roasted garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce
Notes
- Add cream: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cashew cream for an extra luxurious sauce.
- Herb swap: Substitute dill with fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Spice level: Adjust chili flakes to taste for a milder or spicier kick.
- Wine alternative: Use vegetable or fish stock for an alcohol-free version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~350
Protein: ~20g
Fat: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~8g
Fiber: ~1g
Loved this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram with your stunning creations. Let’s bring the taste of the Mediterranean to every table.