Fire-Grilled Mussels with Spicy Herb Butter
By | Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 | Food and Drink | Seafood
Fire-Grilled Mussels with Spicy Herb Butter
Bring the essence of a coastal barbecue to your table with these fire-grilled mussels, smothered in a zesty herb butter. This dish is perfect for alfresco dining, offering a delightful combination of smoky flavors and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
For the Mussels:
- 1 kg fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely sliced (adjust to taste)
For the Herb Butter:
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- Crusty bread or grilled sourdough slices
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Prepare the Herb Butter:
In a bowl, combine the softened butter with chopped basil, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated. Set aside at room temperature.
2. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot, garlic, and chili. Sauté until fragrant and the shallot becomes translucent. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Grill the Mussels:
Place the cleaned mussels directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and grill for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels open up. Discard any mussels that do not open.
5. Combine and Serve:
Transfer the grilled mussels to a large serving bowl. Add the sautéed aromatics and dollops of the herb butter on top. Gently toss to ensure the mussels are coated with the melting butter and aromatics. Serve immediately with crusty bread or grilled sourdough and lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these mussels with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the herbaceous and spicy notes. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Mussel Selection: Choose fresh, live mussels for the best flavor. They should be tightly closed or close when tapped.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like dill or tarragon to vary the flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to suit your personal heat preference.
Enjoy this delightful twist on grilled mussels, bringing a touch of gourmet flair to your next outdoor gathering!