almond mussels – recipesshubb

Almond Mussels

Almond mussels are a flavorful seafood dish where fresh mussels are cooked in a rich, buttery almond sauce. The almonds add a subtle crunch and nutty depth, complementing the natural brininess of the mussels. This dish works beautifully as an appetizer or a main course, and it’s perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare
Nutty, buttery flavor enhances fresh mussels
Elegant presentation for special occasions
Perfect as a starter or main with crusty bread
Can be paired with white wine or light beer

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup (60 g) sliced or slivered almonds
1/2 cup (120 ml) white wine
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mussels

Rinse mussels under cold water. Scrub shells and remove any beards. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.

2. Toast the Almonds

In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add almonds and toast until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Remove almonds and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add garlic and onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

4. Cook the Mussels

Add mussels to the pan along with white wine. Cover and cook 5–7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed.

5. Finish the Sauce

Stir in heavy cream and the toasted almonds. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to warm through.

6. Serve

Transfer mussels to a serving dish, spooning almond sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Tips for the Best Almond Mussels

Use fresh, live mussels for the best flavor
Do not overcook mussels; they become rubbery
Toast almonds carefully to avoid burning
Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness

Variations

Garlic and White Wine Mussels: Omit almonds and add extra garlic and herbs
Spicy Almond Mussels: Add red pepper flakes for heat
Coconut Almond Mussels: Substitute cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist

Storage

Best eaten fresh; mussels lose texture when reheated
Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or over steamed rice
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Garnish with extra parsley and lemon for a vibrant presentation

Final Thoughts

Almond mussels are an elegant yet simple seafood dish that combines the briny flavor of mussels with the nutty richness of toasted almonds. Quick to prepare and impressive to serve, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.