Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with just one bite. This Mussels or Shrimp in White Wine recipe is your ticket to a gourmet experience that looks and tastes like it was crafted by a professional chef, but can be easily prepared in your own kitchen in just 25 minutes! Whether you're looking to impress a date, treat your family to a luxurious meal, or simply indulge in a restaurant-quality seafood dish, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary skills and tantalize your taste buds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs mussels or 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. If you are using mussels, rinse them under cold water, scrubbing the shells to remove any dirt or debris. Remove any beards (the fibrous strands) from the mussels. If using shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the white wine, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- If using mussels, add them to the skillet, cover with a lid, and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that do not open. If using shrimp, add them to the skillet after the wine has come to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Once the mussels are cooked or the shrimp are done, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the mussels or shrimp immediately, spooning the delicious broth over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Enjoy your Mussels or Shrimp in White Wine with a side salad or over a bed of pasta if desired for a complete meal.
Tips
- Freshness is key: Always choose the freshest seafood available. For mussels, ensure they have tightly closed shells or close when tapped, and for shrimp, look for a firm, translucent appearance.
- Don't overcook: Seafood cooks quickly. Mussels are done when their shells open, and shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
- Wine matters: Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that you'd enjoy drinking. The wine's flavor will infuse into the dish.
- Garlic technique: Sauté garlic gently to prevent burning, which can make it bitter. Remove from heat if it starts to brown too quickly.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan. Have your bread or side dishes ready before cooking.
- Customize your dish: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for heat, or experiment with different herbs like parsley or thyme instead of basil.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 170mg
