Mussels Gratin Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Mussels Gratin with this easy-to-follow recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This dish combines the delicate brininess of mussels with a rich, cheesy topping, perfect for a quick European-inspired meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 172.1
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0)
- Cuisine: European
- Method: Broil/Grill, Oven
- Dietary: Contains dairy
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 kg fresh mussels (about 2 lbs)
Instructions:
-
Prepare Mussels:
- Clean the mussels thoroughly under cold water, scrubbing off any debris. Discard any mussels that are cracked or open.
- In a large pot, steam the mussels over medium-high heat with a splash of water, covered, for about 5 minutes or until they open. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Prepare Cheese Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the butter, olive oil, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to form a paste-like consistency.
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Assemble and Broil:
- Preheat your broiler to 500°F (260°C).
- Once the mussels have cooled, carefully remove the empty top shell, leaving the mussel attached to the bottom shell. Arrange the mussels in a single layer on an oven-proof dish or baking sheet.
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Top with Cheese Mixture:
- Using a small spoon, generously spread the cheese mixture over each mussel, ensuring they are evenly coated.
-
Broil:
- Place the mussels under the preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
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Serve:
- Remove from the oven and serve the Mussels Gratin immediately, accompanied by crusty French bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 172.1 kcal
- Fat: 9.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.4 g
- Cholesterol: 42.7 mg
- Sodium: 409 mg
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0.1 g
- Sugar: 0.1 g
- Protein: 15.1 g
Tips for Perfect Mussels Gratin:
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh mussels for the best flavor. They should be tightly closed or close when tapped. Discard any that do not open during cooking.
- Cheese Mixture: Adjust the amount of garlic and pepper according to your preference for a more intense or milder flavor.
- Broiling Time: Keep a close watch on the mussels under the broiler to prevent overcooking. They should be just heated through and the cheese should be golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
Mussels Gratin is perfect as an appetizer for a seafood feast or as a main dish served with a crisp green salad on the side. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer to complement the flavors.
Variations:
- Herb Variation: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the cheese mixture for added freshness.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the mussels before broiling for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Option: Mix a tablespoon of heavy cream into the cheese mixture for a creamier texture.
Conclusion:
This Mussels Gratin recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh seafood with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress with its savory flavors and elegant presentation. Serve it hot and watch as your guests savor every cheesy, garlicky bite.