Garlic Lemon Butter Mussels

Mussels are not just a tasty seafood option; they are a culinary delicacy enjoyed across various cultures around the world. From Mediterranean coasts to bustling Asian markets, mussels are celebrated for their unique flavor and texture. Whether steamed, grilled, or baked, these shellfish offer a versatile base for countless dishes. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for Zesty Garlic Lemon Butter Mussels—a fresh and flavorful seafood dish that highlights the natural sweetness of mussels while infusing them with aromatic herbs and zesty citrus.

Discover the joy of cooking with this Zesty Garlic Lemon Butter Mussels recipe that showcases the delicious flavors of fresh mussels. This dish combines succulent shellfish, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon with a hint of white wine for an incredible taste experience. Perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in, it’s simple yet impressive. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth and delight your guests with a beautiful seafood dish that highlights the natural sweetness of mussels.

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Ingredients

2 pounds of fresh mussels, rinsed and scrubbed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Mussels: Rinse the mussels under cold running water, scrubbing the shells to remove any dirt or debris. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Seasoning: Mix in the lemon zest, followed by the lemon juice. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Incorporate the Wine: Pour in the dry white wine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate slightly.

Cook the Mussels: Add the rinsed mussels to the pot, covering it with a lid. Allow the mussels to steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until they have opened up. Discard any mussels that remain closed.

Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the mussels hot with plenty of the broth and crusty bread for dipping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4