Ingredients and Weight:
- Fresh mussels: 2 pounds (about 900 grams)
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Minced garlic: 2 teaspoons
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or more for a spicier taste)
- White wine (such as Chardonnay): 1 cup
- Freshly chopped parsley: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
- Seasoned salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (includes preparation and cooking time)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Clean mussels thoroughly under running water, removing any beards or debris.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Stir in the mussels and season with seasoned salt.
- Pour the white wine into the pot, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mussels open. Discard any mussels that do not open.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve immediately in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (depending on added seasonings and oil usage)
Fat: 9g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g (from wine and natural sugars in mussels)
Dish Characteristics:
- Delicious and flavorful, with a combination of herbs and citrusy notes.
- Can be adjusted to different levels of spice according to preference.
- Mussels are a good source of protein and other nutrients.
User Comments:
- "This dish was amazing! The mussels were cooked to perfection and the flavor was outstanding."
- "I love the combination of lemon juice and white wine with the mussels. This dish is a hit at our house."
- "The red pepper flakes give it a nice kick. A great dish for a casual dinner party."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure mussels are fresh and alive before cooking. Discard any that are open or do not close when tapped.
- Clean mussels thoroughly to remove any sand or debris.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, adding more seasoned salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the freshness of the mussels and the heat of your stove. Always check for doneness by trying to open the mussels.