Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 grams (1.1 pounds) mussels in shells
1 large onion (preferably leek)
120-130 grams (4.2-4.6 ounces) blue cheese
300 milliliters (10.1 fluid ounces) cream (20%)
2 cloves garlic
Fresh parsley
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by **slicing the onion** into half-rings. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. If you have leek, it's recommended for a milder flavor.

Step 2

Cook the Onions

In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and sauté until they are **half-cooked** and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add Mussels

Next, add the **washed mussels** to the pan. Make sure to clean them properly before cooking. Cover the pan and **simmer for 3 minutes** until the mussels start to open.

Step 4

Incorporate Garlic and Cream

Once the mussels have started to open, press the **garlic** through a garlic press into the pan. Then add the **cream** and let it simmer for an additional **2 minutes** to combine the flavors.

Step 5

Add Blue Cheese

Crush the **blue cheese** and stir it into the mussel mixture. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. You won't need to add salt since the cheese will provide enough flavor.

Step 6

Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped **parsley** over the dish for a fresh taste. Serve the mussels hot with slices of **toasted ciabatta** bread. A glass of **sparkling wine** pairs wonderfully to elevate the meal experience.

Servings

Serving up your **Creamy Blue Cheese Mussels** is half the fun! Pair them with toasted ciabatta to soak up that luscious sauce, or serve them alongside a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget a glass of sparkling wine to elevate the dining experience; the bubbles are a match made in heaven with the rich flavors! 🍾✨

For a cozy night in, make it a complete meal by adding a side of garlic mashed potatoes or herbed quinoa. Your family and friends will be raving about this delightful combo! 😍🍽️

Equipment

Variations

If you're looking to tweak this recipe, here are some **gluten-free and vegan options** to consider! 🌱

For a **gluten-free** version, simply serve your mussels with gluten-free bread or skip the bread altogether and enjoy them alone with a refreshing salad. For seafood lovers looking to stay gluten-free, this dish is naturally suitable without needing any flour!

For a **vegan** alternative, replace the mussels with sautéed mushrooms to capture that umami flavor. Substitute the blue cheese with a vegan cheese spread or creamy coconut milk mixed with nutritional yeast for that cheesy taste. This way, you still get the delicious, comforting essence of the original dish! 🥥✨

Faq

  • How do I know if the mussels are fresh?

    Fresh mussels should be closed tightly. If they’re slightly open, give them a gentle tap; they should close. If they remain open, discard those mussels.

  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    It's best to cook mussels right before serving. However, you can prepare the sauce in advance and heat it up when ready to cook the mussels.

  • What if I can’t find blue cheese?

    You can substitute blue cheese with feta or a sharp goat cheese for a different flavor profile, although the taste will vary!

  • How can I tell when the mussels are done cooking?

    Mussels are done when they all open up; this typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Discard any mussels that remain closed.

  • What type of cream works best in this recipe?

    Heavy cream is ideal for a richer sauce, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter alternative.

  • Can I use frozen mussels for this recipe?

    Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and rinse before cooking.

Nutrition facts

Delicious Blue Cheese Mussels Recipe
Recipe Yield:4 servings
Calories:The estimated calorie range per serving is between 400 to 600 calories.
Calories (Min - Max):400 - 600
Total Fat:36g
Saturated Fat:20g
Protein:22g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:3g