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Steamed Mussels in Garlic-Herb Broth

Steamed mussels in garlic-herb broth garnished with fresh parsley and lemon

A classic Mediterranean dish that's naturally paleo-friendly, featuring fresh mussels steamed in an aromatic broth of garlic, herbs, and white wine. This elegant yet simple dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare.

Required Equipment

Kitchen equipment needed for cooking steamed mussels recipe

Ingredients

Flat lay of fresh ingredients for steamed mussels including herbs, garlic, and shellfish

Seafood

  • 2 kg fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 500 g clams (optional)

Aromatics & Herbs

  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 1 cup dry white wine (or substitute with seafood stock for strict paleo)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

https://youtu.be/S4z2gmtUzHE?si=W-0PURbQ2mH77BhY
  1. Prepare Mussels (15 minutes)
    • Clean mussels under cold water
    • Remove beards and discard any opened or damaged mussels
    • Keep chilled until ready to cook
  2. Create Aromatic Base (5 minutes)
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat (175°C/350°F)
    • Sauté shallots until translucent (2-3 minutes)
    • Add garlic, cook until fragrant (1 minute)
  3. Build the Broth (5 minutes)
    • Add white wine, herbs, red pepper flakes
    • Bring to simmer
    • Season with salt and pepper
  4. Steam Mussels (5-7 minutes)
    • Add mussels to pot
    • Cover and steam until mussels open (5-7 minutes)
    • Discard any unopened mussels
  5. Finish & Serve
    • Add lemon juice and zest
    • Toss gently to combine
    • Garnish with extra parsley
Step-by-step process of cooking steamed mussels from preparation to finish

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 285
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 670mg

Tips & Variations

  • For strict paleo, replace wine with seafood stock
  • Add coconut milk for a creamier broth
  • Include other seafood like shrimp or clams
  • Use dried herbs if fresh aren't available (reduce amount by half)

Suggested Pairings

Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 15 mins Total Time: 30 mins
Cooking Temp 350  F
Calories 285
Dietary Paleo
Description

A classic Mediterranean dish that's naturally paleo-friendly, featuring fresh mussels steamed in an aromatic broth of garlic, herbs, and white wine. This elegant yet simple dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare.

Instructions
  1. Prepare Mussels (15 minutes)
    • Clean mussels under cold water
    • Remove beards and discard any opened or damaged mussels
    • Keep chilled until ready to cook
  2. Create Aromatic Base (5 minutes)
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat (175°C/350°F)
    • Sauté shallots until translucent (2-3 minutes)
    • Add garlic, cook until fragrant (1 minute)
  3. Build the Broth (5 minutes)
    • Add white wine, herbs, red pepper flakes
    • Bring to simmer
    • Season with salt and pepper
  4. Steam Mussels (5-7 minutes)
    • Add mussels to pot
    • Cover and steam until mussels open (5-7 minutes)
    • Discard any unopened mussels
  5. Finish & Serve
    • Add lemon juice and zest
    • Toss gently to combine
    • Garnish with extra parsley

Nutrition Facts


Amount Per Serving
Calories 285kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11g17%
Sodium 670mg28%
Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Protein 28g57%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tips & Variations

  • For strict paleo, replace wine with seafood stock
  • Add coconut milk for a creamier broth
  • Include other seafood like shrimp or clams
  • Use dried herbs if fresh aren't available (reduce amount by half)

Suggested Pairings

  • Cauliflower rice
  • Roasted sweet potato
  • Fresh green salad
  • Paleo-friendly crusty bread alternative