What To Serve With Mussels

When it comes to seafood, mussels are one of the most popular items on the menu. They are flavorful, healthy, and relatively inexpensive. But what do you serve with them?

In this article, we will explore some delicious recipes that will perfectly accompany your mussels.

Whether you are looking for a side dish or an entrée, I have you covered!

Angel Hair Pasta
Roasted Artichokes
Green Salad
Spaghetti
White Wine Sauce
Roasted Asparagus
Jicama Salad
Tomato Salad
Fennel Salad
Roasted Broccoli

Angel Hair Pasta

Angel hair pasta is the perfect partner for mussels, as it doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the seafood. It also has the advantage of being quick and easy to cook, so it’s a great choice if you’re short on time.

Plus, it can be easily dressed up or down to suit your taste. For a simple yet impressive dish, toss the cooked pasta with some extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley.

Or, for something heartier, try sauteeing some garlic and shallots in olive oil and adding that to the cooked pasta along with the mussels.

Roasted Artichokes

Let’s talk about roasted artichokes as a side dish for mussels. I think they’re a perfect pairing because they offer a bit of crunch and acidity to offset the richness of the mussels. They also add visual interest to the dish.

There are a few different ways you can roast artichokes. One is to slice them thinly and roast them in the oven with a bit of olive oil and salt.

Another is to cut them into quarters, drizzle with olive oil, and roast them until they’re tender.

Whichever method you choose, the key is to not overcook them. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of bite.

Green Salad

Adding a green salad to mussels may seem like an odd combination, but it can be a delicious and nutrient-rich pairing. The crispy texture of the greens contrasts nicely with the plump, tender mussels, and the acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the richness of the dish.

Plus, by adding a salad to your mussels, you can up the healthy factor without sacrificing flavor. A simple mix of greens, such as arugula or baby spinach, is all you need.

To keep things light, avoid using heavy dressings or toppings. Instead, dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette of lemon juice and olive oil. You can also add some freshly chopped herbs for extra flavor.

If you’re looking for a heartier side dish, you could also add some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Spaghetti

Spaghetti is a type of long, thin noodle that is made from durum wheat and water. It is a popular dish in Italian cuisine and can be served with various sauces.

Spaghetti is also a common ingredient in other dishes such as lasagna and macaroni and cheese. While it is typically thought of as a main dish, spaghetti can also be used as a side dish.

Spaghetti pairs well with many types of seafood, including mussels, shrimp, and scallops. For a quick and easy seafood dinner, cook spaghetti according to package directions and serve it alongside steamed mussels.

It can also be used as a base for salads. For example, try tossing cooked spaghetti with roasted cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls for a simple yet flavorful salad.

White Wine Sauce

There are many reasons why you might want to consider using a white wine sauce as a side dish for mussels. For one thing, it can help to enhance the flavor of the mussels.

Additionally, it can also help to keep the mussels moist and tender. Finally, it can also help to add a bit of extra richness and creaminess to the dish. All of these factors make white wine sauce an excellent choice for a side dish.

There are many different recipes that white wine sauce that can be used. It pairs particularly well with dishes that contain shellfish or other seafood.

Moreover, it can also be used as a dipping sauce or added to soup or pasta dishes. Ultimately, the decision of what to pair white wine sauce with is up to you. However, many different options are sure to please any palate.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus is a fantastic side dish for mussels. It is light, healthy, and pairs well with the rich flavor of mussels. Asparagus is also a versatile vegetable that can be roasted, grilled, or steamed.

This particular recipe calls for roasting the asparagus in the oven, which gives it a slight char and brings out its natural sweetness.

The asparagus is then tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette, which helps to brighten the dish and complements the fresh flavor of the mussels.

Jicama Salad

Jicama Salad is a wonderfully light and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with mussels. The crisp, crunchy texture of the jicama contrasts nicely with the plump, juicy mussels, and the zesty dressing adds a touch of zing.

Jicama is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins C and B6, so it’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Best of all, this salad can be made in advance, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Toss the jicama and dressing together, then refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

When you’re ready to eat, steamed the mussels and add them to the salad. For an extra bit of flavor, top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Tomato Salad

Tomato salad is a fantastic side dish for mussels. There are many reasons why tomato salad is such a great complement to mussels, but perhaps the most important reason is that it helps to balance out the richness of the mussels.

The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the mussels, and the crispness of the vegetables provides a refreshing contrast to the plumpness of the shellfish.

In addition, tomato salad is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, which can help to boost the immune system. The wide variety of recipes that are available for tomato salad means that there is sure to be a version that will suit your taste.

Whether you prefer a traditional Italian-style salad with basil and mozzarella, or a more contemporary version with avocado and feta, there is sure to be a recipe that will please your palate.

Tomato salad is also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge. Chop up whatever vegetables you have on hand and mix them with some olive oil and vinegar. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and you will have a delicious side dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.

Fennel Salad

Fennel is a perfect side dish for mussels because it has a delicate anise flavor that pairs well with the briny taste of the mussels.

Fennel is also a good source of fiber and vitamins, and it has a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the softness of the mussels. Additionally, fennel is a low-calorie food, so it makes a healthy addition to any meal.

There are many ways to prepare fennel salad, but my favorite recipe includes shaved fennel, diced red onion, fresh parsley, and a simple vinaigrette. This salad can be served as is, or you can add some crusty bread to mop up the flavorful juices.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli is a fantastic side dish for mussels. Not only does it add a lovely touch of color to the plate, but it also brings a delicious depth of flavor that compliments the sweetness of the mussels perfectly.

When roasted, the broccoli florets become slightly crisp on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, and the natural sugars in the vegetable caramelize, creating a lovely rich flavor.

Additionally, the broccoli pairs well with other common ingredients in mussel dishes such as garlic, shallots, and white wine.

Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing What To Serve With Mussels

What are other options when choosing what to serve with mussels?

Potato Leek Soup
Horseradish Sauce
Tomato Sauce
Toasted Baguette
Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Sweet Potato Fries
Garlic Bread
Saffron Rice
French Fries
Bread

What are some tips when choosing what to serve with mussels?

There are some great tips that you can follow when choosing what to serve with mussels.

First, it is important to consider the flavor of the mussels. If they are a strong flavor, you will want to choose a side dish that will help to balance out the flavors.

Additionally, it is important to consider the texture of the mussels. If they are a bit chewy, you will want to choose a side dish that is soft and tender.

Finally, it is important to think about the overall meal. You will want to make sure that the flavors of the side dishes complement each other and that the textures work well together. By following these tips, you will be sure to create a delicious and balanced meal.

How many mussels do you need per person?

It is recommended that you serve approximately 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of mussels per person. This will ensure that everyone has enough to enjoy, but it will also leave room for other dishes.

Conclusion

When it comes to what to serve with mussels, the possibilities are endless. You can choose from a variety of salads, side dishes, and even desserts.

No matter what you choose, be sure to have fun and enjoy the process. After all, the best part of any meal is the company you share it with.

So what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy this tasty seafood dish!