Description
Delight in these savory Stuffed Baked Mussels, perfectly seasoned with garlic, basil, Pecorino Romano cheese, and a hint of chili flakes, baked to a golden crisp. This elegant appetizer is a flavorful seafood treat that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress at any dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 12 large mussels, thoroughly cleaned and opened
Stuffing
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped basil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the mussels evenly.
- Prepare Stuffing Mixture: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, finely chopped basil, chopped garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, optional chili flakes, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to create a flavorful mixture.
- Assemble Mussels: Arrange the cleaned and opened mussel shells evenly on a baking tray. Generously fill each shell with the breadcrumb stuffing mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres well to the mussel shell.
- Bake Mussels: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the mussels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges before serving to add brightness and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the mussels are thoroughly cleaned and properly opened before stuffing to ensure food safety and optimal taste.
- You can omit chili flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and crispy texture, but you may substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
