Description
Corsican Stuffed Mussels are a flavorful Mediterranean appetizer featuring fresh mussels steamed in white wine, topped with a savory mixture of garlic, onion, parsley, breadcrumbs, Pecorino cheese, and spices, then baked to golden perfection. This delicious seafood tapas dish makes an elegant starter for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 2 pounds fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
Stuffing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino or Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Other
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
Instructions
- Steam the Mussels: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the mussels and white wine in a large pot, cover, and steam over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the mussels open. Discard any mussels that remain closed to ensure freshness.
- Prepare Mussels for Stuffing: Carefully remove the top shell from each mussel, leaving the half with the meat on a baking sheet. This will be the base for the stuffing.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Make the Stuffing: To the bowl with sautéed garlic and onions, add chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino or Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, black pepper, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to form a moist stuffing mixture.
- Stuff the Mussels: Spoon a small amount of the stuffing over each mussel half arranged on the baking sheet, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake the Mussels: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and crisp on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the stuffed mussels hot, accompanied by lemon wedges or crusty bread for an ideal appetizer experience.
Notes
- Pecorino cheese is traditional in Corsican recipes, but Parmesan works well as a substitute.
- For extra richness, drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over the stuffed mussels before baking.
- These mussels make a perfect appetizer or seafood tapas dish for entertaining.
