Name: Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tsp butter; 1 shallot; 1 cloves garlic; 2 lbs mussels; ½ cup White Wine; ½ cup half and half; ½ cup fresh basil; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; salt and fresh pepper

Dive into a world of flavors with this exquisite mussels in basil cream sauce recipe. It's the perfect dish for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The mussels are cooked in a rich basil cream sauce that's infused with garlic, shallots, and white wine, finished off with a hint of parmesan cheese. This dish is a true testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly delicious and refined dish.

Photos of Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

Mussels might not be a regular in your kitchen, but they are easily available in most supermarkets and seafood stores. Be sure to pick fresh mussels that have tightly closed shells. When it comes to basil, fresh basil leaves offer the best flavor, but you can also use dried ones if fresh ones aren't available. The half and half used in the recipe is a blend of equal parts whole milk and light cream, which is a common ingredient in most grocery stores. Also, remember to pick a good quality white wine which you'd enjoy drinking.

Ingredients for Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Butter: Used to sauté the shallots and garlic, it provides a rich and creamy base for the sauce.

Shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.

Garlic: Imparts a distinct flavor, making the sauce more savory.

Mussels: The star ingredient of the dish, they provide a unique seafood flavor.

White wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.

Half and half: Gives the sauce its creamy texture.

Fresh basil: Offers a refreshing, aromatic touch to the sauce.

Olive oil: Used in the basil puree, it adds richness and body.

Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, umami flavor to the sauce.

Salt and fresh pepper: Used for seasoning.

One reader, Hershel Carroll says:

The mussels in basil cream sauce recipe is a game-changer! The creamy basil sauce perfectly complements the tender mussels, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. It's a delightful dish that's easy to prepare and impresses every time. Highly recommended for seafood lovers!

Hershel Carroll

Techniques Required for Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

How to clean mussels: Scrub the mussels under cold running water and remove the beards by pulling them towards the hinge of the shell. Discard any mussels with cracked or open shells.

How to sauté shallots and garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and chopped garlic, then sauté for about 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.

How to cook mussels: After adding the wine and bringing it to a boil, add the mussels to the pot and cover. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the mussels open.

How to make basil cream sauce: In a blender, combine the fresh basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, remaining half and half, and garlic. Blend until smooth, then add the mixture to the pot with the wine and half and half. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

How to season and serve: Season the basil cream sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the sauce over the cooked mussels and serve immediately.

How To Make Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Dine like a king with mussels in basil cream sauce! Enjoy a creamy, buttery garlic seafood meal added with white wine and parmesan cheese.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 18 minutes

Total: 28 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tspbutter
1shallot,minced
1cloves garlic,smashed and chopped, plus 2 closes garlic
2lbsmussels,live
½cupwhite wine
½cuphalf and half,fat-free
½cupfresh basil
2tbspolive oil
¼cupparmesan cheese
salt and fresh pepper

Instructions

Scrub and de-beard mussels in cold water. Discard any cracked or unopened shells.
In a large pot, melt butter. Add shallots and 1 clove chopped garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes.
Add wine and bring to a boil.
Add mussels and cover for about 4 to 6 minutes, until mussels open.
When mussels are cooked, scoop them out with a slotted spoon. Discard any mussels that didn’t open.
Add ¼ cup of half and half to the wine and simmer for about 4 minutes.
In a blender, puree basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, remaining half and half, and garlic.
Add to cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for another few minutes.
Pour over mussels. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 515.22kcal
Fat: 26.26g
Saturated Fat: 9.09g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.16g
Carbohydrates: 18.89g
Fiber: 1.04g
Sugar: 3.79g
Protein: 42.48g
Cholesterol: 114.80mg
Sodium: 1057.34mg
Calcium: 293.98mg
Potassium: 1158.99mg
Iron: 12.74mg
Vitamin A: 242.40µg
Vitamin C: 27.16mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

When preparing mussels, it's crucial to ensure they are fresh. A good indication of freshness is that the shells are tightly closed. If you find any mussels with open shells, give them a gentle tap. If they close, they're still alive and safe to cook. If they remain open, it's best to discard them as they are likely dead and could potentially cause food poisoning. Additionally, always remember to discard any mussels that do not open after cooking, as this is another sign that they were not fresh when cooked.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Mussel Recipe

Plan: Before starting, read the entire recipe to understand the steps and gather all the ingredients and tools needed.

Prep: Wash and de-beard the mussels ahead of time to save time during the cooking process.

Organize: Arrange all the ingredients and equipment in an organized manner to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the mussels are cooking, prepare the basil cream sauce to maximize efficiency.

Quality: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavors and overall dish.

Taste: Adjust the seasoning and flavors as you go to ensure a delicious final result.

Efficiency: Use kitchen tools such as a blender or food processor to quickly and effectively prepare the basil cream sauce.

Timing: Keep an eye on the mussels while they cook to prevent overcooking, ensuring they are tender and flavorful.

Substitute Ingredients For Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish while also being a healthier alternative to butter.
half and half - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, which can complement the flavors of the dish while also making it dairy-free.
white wine - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add depth of flavor and moisture to the dish without the alcohol content of white wine.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami flavor and cheesy texture, making it a suitable vegan alternative to parmesan cheese.

Presenting Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Elevate the plating: Arrange the mussels in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring that each one is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle delicate, fresh basil leaves over the mussels to add a pop of color and a burst of aromatic flavor.
Serve in a sophisticated bowl: Present the mussels in a stunning, elegant bowl that complements the dish and adds a touch of refinement to the presentation.
Drizzle with basil cream sauce: Artfully drizzle the luxurious basil cream sauce over the mussels, allowing it to cascade gracefully onto the plate.
Accompany with crusty bread: Serve the mussels with warm, crusty bread on the side, inviting guests to soak up the delectable sauce and savor every last drop.

Essential Tools for Making Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Large pot: You will need a large pot to cook the mussels and prepare the basil cream sauce.
Blender: A blender will be used to puree the basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and half and half for the basil cream sauce.

How To Reheat Leftover Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Reheat the mussels in their shells to retain their moisture and flavor. Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can steam them in a covered pot with a small amount of water or white wine for 2-3 minutes.
For the basil cream sauce, reheat it separately in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the sauce has thickened, you can thin it out with a splash of half and half or white wine. Be careful not to let the sauce boil, as this can cause it to separate.
If you have stored the mussels and sauce together, you can reheat them in a covered saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This method may cause the mussels to overcook slightly, but the sauce will help keep them moist.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the mussels and sauce in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the sauce and mussels halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a lot of leftover mussels and sauce, consider transforming them into a new dish. Remove the mussels from their shells and toss them with cooked pasta, the reheated basil cream sauce, and some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious and easy seafood pasta dish.

Interesting Fact About Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Mussels are a great source of lean protein and are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet.

Is Making Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce at Home Cost-Effective?

This mussels in basil cream sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the mussels and fresh basil, but the other ingredients are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and elegant meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste and simplicity. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a reasonable option for a special dinner or entertaining guests.

Is This Mussel Dish Healthy or Not?

The mussels in basil cream sauce recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it does have some elements that may not be considered entirely healthy. Let's break it down:

Mussels are a great source of lean protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
The use of butter, half and half, and parmesan cheese adds saturated fat and calories to the dish.
White wine and garlic offer some potential health benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Fresh basil is a nutrient-rich herb that provides vitamins and minerals.

While the recipe has some nutritious ingredients, the cream sauce may be the main concern for those watching their calorie or fat intake.

To make this recipe healthier, you could:

Reduce the amount of butter and use olive oil instead, which is a healthier fat option
Opt for a lower-fat milk alternative, such as skim milk or unsweetened almond milk, instead of half and half
Decrease the amount of parmesan cheese or use a low-fat version
Increase the proportion of mussels to sauce, ensuring a higher protein content per serving
Serve the mussels with a side of vegetables or whole grains to add fiber and nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of mussels in basil cream sauce while keeping the dish more balanced and nutritious.

Editor's Opinion on Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

This mussels in basil cream sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The use of white wine and half and half creates a rich and creamy base, while the addition of fresh basil adds a vibrant and aromatic element. The dish is well-balanced and showcases the natural sweetness of the mussels. The process of cooking the mussels in the flavorful broth ensures that they are tender and infused with the delicious flavors. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a special dinner or entertaining guests, and it's sure to impress with its elegant and delicious presentation.

Enhance Your Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and olive oil.

Lemon Butter Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed in a tangy lemon butter sauce for a burst of flavor.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed in a honey and butter mixture for a delightful side dish.

Similar Recipes to Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb dressing before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

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Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the classic Italian appetizer of bruschetta, featuring crispy bread topped with a vibrant mix of tomatoes, basil, and garlic.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse that will satisfy your sweet tooth. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth with every spoonful, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Experience the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors in a luscious strawberry cheesecake. The creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust complement the fresh and juicy strawberries, creating a delightful dessert that is simply irresistible.

Why trust this Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with mussels in a luscious basil cream sauce. The combination of fresh basil, parmesan cheese, and half and half creates a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the tender mussels. The use of white wine adds a touch of sophistication to the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. With the careful selection of ingredients and precise cooking instructions, this recipe ensures a delectable outcome, earning the trust of all seafood enthusiasts.

Want to share your experience making Mussels in Basil Cream Sauce or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I tell if the mussels are fresh?

Fresh mussels should have a clean, briny smell and closed shells. If any mussels are open, give them a gentle tap. If they don't close, discard them.

Can I use something else instead of white wine?

Yes, you can substitute the white wine with seafood or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.

How do I clean and debeard the mussels?

Scrub the mussels under cold running water to remove any debris or sand. To debeard, simply pull the hairy fibers away from the shell.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the mussels are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the basil cream sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

What can I serve with the mussels in basil cream sauce?

Crusty bread or a side of pasta make excellent accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce. A light salad also pairs well with this dish.