Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This baked mussel recipe with garlic mayo is the perfect solution for a weeknight meal or a delightful appetizer. It's packed with fresh seafood goodness, boasting a delightful combination of briny mussels and a creamy, garlicky mayonnaise sauce. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple yet sophisticated dish. This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't get much better than this!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare the mussels. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water, scrubbing away any dirt or debris. Remove the “beard” (the stringy bit) from each mussel by gently pulling it off. Discard any mussels that are broken or open and don't close when tapped.
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Prepare the garlic mayo: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside. This simple sauce elevates the entire dish.
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Bake the mussels: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the mussels and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to open. If using white wine, add it to the skillet now and let it simmer for a minute.
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Add the garlic mayo: Pour the prepared garlic mayo over the mussels, ensuring they are evenly coated. Season with salt to taste.
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Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels are fully cooked and have opened completely. Discard any mussels that remain closed after baking.
Tips for the Best Baked Mussels:
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Freshness is key: Using fresh, high-quality mussels is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Buy them from a reputable fishmonger and ensure they smell fresh and ocean-like, not fishy or unpleasant.
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Don't overcook: Overcooked mussels will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they open completely.
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Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, lemon juice, or other seasonings to your liking. A dash of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
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Serve immediately: Baked mussels are best enjoyed immediately after baking, while they're still hot and juicy.
Variations:
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Spicy Mussels: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the garlic mayo for a spicy kick.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or chives.
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Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the mussels during the last few minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This baked mussel recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It’s a perfect example of how easy and quick it can be to create healthy meals using simple ingredients. Enjoy this delightful seafood dish as a satisfying dinner or a fantastic appetizer – your taste buds will thank you!