Schiacciate with Mussels, Mullet Roe, and Lemon Zest
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olivia & Marino Flatbreads | 12 |
| Mussels | 250g |
| Mullet Roe (Bottarga) | 30g |
| Lemon Zest | 1 lemon |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | to taste |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
Nutritional Information:
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per serving | 120 | 6g | 10g | 7g | 1g | 280mg |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Mussels:
Begin by cleaning the mussels thoroughly under running water. Remove the beards (the stringy fibers protruding from the shell) by pulling them off with your fingers. Scrub the mussels’ shells with a brush to remove any debris, then rinse them again. -
Cook the Mussels:
In a large skillet, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a finely chopped garlic clove. Sauté the garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the mussels to the pan and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels open up. Discard any mussels that remain closed. -
Assemble the Schiacciate:
Lay out the Olivia & Marino flatbreads on a serving platter. On each flatbread, place 2-3 mussels, making sure to remove them from their shells before placing them on the bread for easy eating. -
Add Flavor:
Grate the mullet roe (bottarga) over each mussel-topped flatbread. This will add a rich, salty, umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the seafood. Next, zest the lemon directly over the flatbreads to bring a fresh, citrusy contrast. -
Finishing Touches:
Drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil over the top and finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. The olive oil adds richness while the pepper gives a slight kick. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Schiacciate with Mussels, Mullet Roe, and Lemon Zest are ready to be served! Enjoy them as a delicious appetizer, perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering or for a light bite before the main course.
Tips & Variations:
- Bottarga Alternative: If you can’t find bottarga, you can substitute it with finely grated Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, savory bite.
- Fresh Mussels: Always buy fresh mussels and ensure they are tightly closed when you purchase them. If any mussels are open before cooking, tap them gently – if they don’t close, discard them.
- Herb Addition: You can experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to garnish the flatbreads for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the mussels in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the schiacciate. This will save time if you’re serving them at a party.
Schiacciate with Mussels, Mullet Roe, and Lemon Zest is a fresh, flavorful, and sophisticated appetizer that brings the taste of the sea straight to your table. The combination of juicy mussels, the briny richness of bottarga, and the zesty burst of lemon makes each bite a culinary delight. Perfect for your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself!
