Mussels In Herb Butter
Delight in tender steamed mussels topped with fragrant herb butter, baked to perfection. A flavorful appetizer perfect for seafood lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam well scrubbed and bearded mussels in 1 cup water. Cover; cook for about 5 minutes, or until shells open.
- Save half a shell for each mussel.
- Blend the remaining ingredients thoroughly to make the herb butter.
- Put a small amount of herb butter in each shell.
- Lay each mussel on the butter-filled shell.
- Cover with more herb butter and place in a single layer in shallow pans (pie pans).
- Bake at 400° for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure mussels are fresh and tightly closed before cooking. If using frozen mussels, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter for some heat. You can also substitute chives for parsley if desired. For an even richer flavor, try incorporating some white wine into the steaming liquid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mussels in Herb Butter as a delightful appetizer or main dish, paired with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful butter. A crisp green salad, like a Smoked Salmon Salad, complements the richness of the dish beautifully. For a full meal, consider serving with a light pasta or rice. These mussels also pair well with a chilled white wine or a light beer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mussels should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the mussels rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mussels In Herb Butter contains roughly 495 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen mussels for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mussels. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even heating and helps maintain their texture. Avoid cooking them directly from frozen, as they may not cook evenly.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine. Coconut oil can also work, but it will impart a slightly different flavor. For a lighter option, you might try using a blended oil that includes herbs.
How do I know when the mussels are cooked properly?
Mussels are cooked properly when their shells fully open during steaming. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking, as they may not be safe to eat. It's important to steam them just long enough to open without overcooking, which can make them tough.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).