Garlic Butter Mussels

These Garlic Butter Mussels offer a taste of the Mediterranean, with plump, tender mussels swimming in a luscious, aromatic sauce. Infused with fresh garlic, fragrant herbs, and a splash of white wine, this dish is wonderfully simple yet incredibly elegant.

Garlic Butter Mussels
  • Prep time: 18 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 33 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fresh mussels, scrubbed and de-bearded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  4. Add the cleaned mussels to the pot, cover tightly, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until all mussels have opened. Discard any unopened mussels.
  5. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, fresh parsley, and fresh basil until the butter is melted and the herbs are well incorporated.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread for dipping.

Tips

  • Always discard any mussels that are open before cooking and do not close when tapped, and any that remain closed after cooking.
  • Use a good quality dry white wine; avoid cooking wines that often contain added salt and preservatives.
  • Serve with plenty of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I properly clean mussels?

Scrub the shells under cold running water with a stiff brush to remove any grit. Remove the 'beard' (a fibrous filament) by pulling it firmly towards the hinge end of the mussel.

Can I use chicken broth instead of white wine?

Yes, for an alcohol-free version, you can substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the white wine. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long can cooked mussels be stored?

Cooked mussels are best enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than one day and reheat gently, though texture may change.