Blue Mussels Go Green

Submitted by Mary Jenny

"Mussels are a 'super green' food that offer tremendous health benefits. In addition to being low–fat, they're an excellent source of protein, omega 3s, iron, zinc, vitamin C and B12. Preparing blue mussels is easy and quick. Rinse them and add to a pot with 1/4 cup of liquid. Cover and steam for five to seven minutes. They can be spiced up for more elegant occasions, or served plain with butter and crusty bread for a weekday meal."

 

• Ready In: 5mins
• Ingredients: 16
• Serves: 8

ingredients

• 6 lbs fresh cultured blue mussels
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 small hot pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1⁄4 cup shallots or 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
• 1 small red pepper, chopped
• 1 small green pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1⁄2 cup white wine vinegar (marinade)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (marinade)
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped (marinade)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt (marinade)
• 1⁄2 cup olive oil (marinade)
• 1 dash black pepper (marinade)

directions

1. Stir the fresh blue mussels in a colander while rinsing in tap water. Set aside for a few minutes. Tap any that are open and discard those that don't close in response to the tap.
2. Place all ingredients (not the marinade ingredients) in a large sauce pan with a lid and steam for 5 to 7 minutes until fresh blue mussels are steamed open (about 3 minutes).
3. Remove mussels, discarding any that do not open.
4. When cool, shuck mussels and place meats in a large serving dish. Combine above marinade ingredients in an air–tight container and shake vigorously to blend.
5. Pour over fresh blue mussels.
6. Refrigerate until ready to use.