Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Sicilian Steamed Mussels — A Simple, Sun-Kissed Summer Dish
Fresh mussels steamed with garlic, parsley and lemon — an easy, aromatic Sicilian classic perfect for warm evenings and relaxed dinners.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 2 kg fresh mussels
- ✓ 2 garlic cloves
- ✓ a handful of chopped parsley
- ✓ 1 lemon
- ✓ extra-virgin olive oil
- ✓ freshly ground black pepper
📊 Nutritional Information
Sicilian cozze scoppiate are one of those dishes that instantly transport you to a summer evening by the sea — simple, fragrant and comforting in the most effortless way. I can still remember the scent wafting from my grandmother’s terrace: the briny aroma of fresh mussels mingling with garlic, parsley and just a whisper of lemon.
This recipe keeps that spirit alive. It’s unfussy, wonderfully fast and made for sharing under an open sky. The mussels open gently in a hot pan with olive oil, garlic and herbs, releasing their own savoury liquor and creating a light, aromatic sauce perfect for mopping up with toasted bread.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Scrub the mussels well and rinse thoroughly.
- 2
Place them in a large pan with the whole garlic cloves, a little black pepper, a drizzle of olive oil and the finely chopped parsley.
- 3
Cook over a high heat, stirring often, until all the shells open — about 15 minutes.
- 4
Discard any mussels that remain closed.
- 5
Serve hot with lemon wedges and, if you like, a scattering of fresh chilli.
💡 Tips and Variations
Add a touch of fresh chilli for warmth, or serve with garlic-rubbed crostini to soak up the cooking juices.
📦 Storage
- • Store cooked mussels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- • Do not freeze cooked mussels — their texture will deteriorate.
- • Always ensure mussels are very fresh before cooking for the best flavour and safety.
🍷 Pairing
Pair with a chilled glass of Sicilian Grillo — light, aromatic and refreshing at 10–12°C, it complements the mussels’ natural sweetness beautifully.
Thanks for trying this simple Sicilian favourite. These steamed mussels bring the sea straight to your table — fragrant, lively and perfect for sharing. Enjoy!
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