How to Make the Perfect White Wine Mussels
French · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
These white wine mussels steam open in just 15 minutes in an incredibly aromatic broth of garlic, white wine, and herbs. This quick and impressive seafood dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why this recipe works
This White Wine Mussels recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 260 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 3 lbs fresh mussels scrubbed and debearded
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute the Garlic
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant and just golden.
Step 2: Add Wine and Steam
Pour in white wine, increase heat to high, and bring to a boil. Add mussels, cover tightly with a lid, and steam for 5 to 6 minutes until mussels open.
Step 3: Check and Discard
Remove lid and discard any mussels that have not opened. They are not safe to eat and should not be forced open.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Scatter fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately in deep bowls with crusty bread for soaking up the incredible broth.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- white wine → chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon juice for an alcohol-free version
- butter → olive oil for a dairy-free lighter broth
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcooking the mussels by steaming too long which makes them rubbery and tough
- Using mussels that are already open before cooking which indicates they may not be fresh and safe
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 260 calories, 28g protein, 10g carbs, 8g fat, 1g fiber.
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