Go Back
–+ servings
Easy Fried Mussels Recipe: Juicy and Flavorful Mussel Meat

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Fried Mussels Recipe

A simple fried mussels recipe that keeps the mussels tender and juicy, with a light golden finish and a fresh touch of lemon zest.
Print Pin
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
by: Aya
Servings: 2
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds mussels scrubbed and debearded
  • 2 cloves garlic lightly crushed
  • 1 handful lovage small handful
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • black pepper to taste
  • salt to taste
  • 1 pinch lemon zest freshly grated
  • lemon juice optional, a few drops

Instructions

  • Rinse the mussels under cold water and remove the beards. Discard any that are open or have cracked shells.
  • Add the lovage, garlic, and 2–3 tbsp water to a large pot. Add the mussels, cover, and cook until they open.
  • Remove from heat and take the mussels out of their shells.
  • Transfer the mussels to a colander, let them drain, then pat them dry.
  • Heat the olive oil in a pan, then add the butter and let it melt and foam.
  • Add the mussels in a single layer and cook without stirring for 30–40 seconds.
  • Stir and cook for another 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Remove from heat and season with black pepper and salt to taste.
  • Transfer to a serving plate and finish with lemon zest and a few drops of lemon juice.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the mussels - once they open, they are ready. Cooking them too long will make them tough.
  • Dry the mussels well before frying - this helps prevent splattering and improves the final texture.
  • Cook in batches if needed - overcrowding the pan will cause the mussels to steam instead of sear.
  • Season at the end - mussels are naturally salty, so taste before adding salt.
  • Serve immediately - mussels are best enjoyed hot and do not keep well after cooking.

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Nutrition

Calories: 521kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 1479mg | Potassium: 1014mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1342IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 108mg | Iron: 10mg

I do my best to provide you with the nutritional information for recipes but I'm not a certified nutritionist. The nutritional information provided should only be treated as an estimate since it will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Trying this Recipe?Pin it for later and Follow me on Pinterest (oneReCP) for more like it!