Mussels Vinaigrette Recipe
Overview:
Delight your taste buds with the exquisite flavors of Mussels Vinaigrette, a delectable Canadian-inspired dish perfect for lunch, snacks, or entertaining large groups. This recipe boasts very low carbs and can be whipped up in under 60 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a flavorful yet hassle-free option. With its refreshing combination of mussels, tangy vinaigrette, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Plus, it can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify for an even more satisfying experience. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of Mussels Vinaigrette!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 24 | Mussels |
| 1/2 | Olive Oil |
| 3 | Red Wine Vinegar |
| 1 | Capers |
| 1 | Onion |
| 1 | Pimiento |
| 1 | Parsley |
| Salt | |
| Fresh Ground Pepper | |
| 1 | Lemon |
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 54.4
- Fat: 4.9g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Cholesterol: 4.5mg
- Sodium: 50.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 0.7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Protein: 1.9g
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Begin by scrubbing the mussels thoroughly to remove any grit or debris, and be sure to pull off the beards, if present. Discard any mussels that do not close tightly when tapped, as they may be unfit for consumption. Set the cleaned mussels aside while you prepare the vinaigrette.
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Vinaigrette:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar until well combined. Then, add the capers, finely diced onion, chopped pimiento, and freshly chopped parsley to the mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Cooking the Mussels:
- Heat a frypan over medium heat and pour in one cup of water. Add a slice of lemon to infuse the cooking liquid with citrusy notes. Carefully place the cleaned mussels into the pan and cover with a lid. Allow the mussels to steam for several minutes until they begin to open.
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Assembly:
- As the mussels open, remove them from the pan using tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate to cool. Once cooled, carefully extract the mussel meat from the shells, reserving half of the shells for presentation. Add the extracted mussel meat to the prepared vinaigrette, ensuring each piece is well coated.
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Chilling:
- Cover the bowl of mussels and vinaigrette with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. This step is crucial for achieving maximum flavor and depth in the dish.
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Presentation:
- Prior to serving, take the reserved mussel shells out of the refrigerator and give them a thorough cleaning. Arrange the clean shells on a serving platter or dish, ready to be filled with the marinated mussel meat.
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Final Touches:
- Just before serving, spoon a small amount of the prepared vinaigrette over each mussel-filled shell, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Garnish with additional fresh parsley leaves or a wedge of lemon for a touch of brightness and visual appeal.
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Enjoyment:
- Serve the Mussels Vinaigrette as a delightful appetizer or main course, accompanied by crusty bread or a crisp green salad. Each bite offers a tantalizing combination of briny mussels, zesty vinaigrette, and fragrant herbs, creating a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
Tips:
- For the freshest mussels, purchase them from a reputable seafood vendor and consume them as soon as possible after purchase.
- Feel free to customize the vinaigrette according to your personal preferences by adjusting the quantities of vinegar, olive oil, and seasoning.
- Ensure the mussels are thoroughly cooked but take care not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Leftover Mussels Vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Don’t forget to provide ample crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful vinaigrette and soaking up every last drop of goodness!
Conclusion:
Elevate your culinary repertoire with this exquisite Mussels Vinaigrette recipe, brimming with the fresh flavors of the sea and vibrant herbs. Whether you’re hosting a gathering of friends or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and sophistication. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to delight your senses and satisfy your cravings. Bon appétit! 🍽️
