Green Mussels
With an extra helping of omega-three than your black mussels, these green mussels will give you a health boost in a seafood recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. With a lovely green color on the shell lip, they are as appealing as they are tasty.
Ingredients
Mussels
- 2 pounds Green Mussels
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 Tablespoons parsley minced
- 1/4 teaspoons salt and pepper
- pinch chilli flakes optional
- 1/3 cup olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
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Preheat the broiler to low.
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Bring all ingredients for the panko and add them in a bowl.
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Add the melted butter and blend in until it's fluffy.
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The mixture should be crumbly and moist, not dry. Add extra olive oil or melted butter if needed.
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Layer the green mussels flat on a baking sheet in a single layer.
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Divide the crumb topping evenly over the mussels.
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Broil until golden.
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Serve right away and enjoy
Recipe Video
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for Green Mussels
- You'll find Green Mussels often labeled as New Zealand Mussels or Green Lipped Mussels in the freezer section.
- They come in the half shell so it's easier to cook.
- Defrost them before proceeding with the recipe.
- Adjust the panko bread crumb mixture by adding more or less seasoning.
- Make sure the mussels are about 6 inches away from the heat element in the oven.
- Top the mussels generously with the panko mixture because they aren't seasoned otherwise.
- keep an eye on them because every broiler is different.
- Serve with pasta or salad for a main dish.
- Serve with Spicy Mayo and Tartar Sauce Recipe as an appetizer!
- Leftover Green Mussels recipe are delicious to enjoy within 3 days.
Variations On Mussels Cooking Techniques
Green mussels are versatile, here are a few other ways to prepare them with these methods to enhance natural sweetness:
- Classic Steamed Mussels: Steam with garlic, shallots, white wine, and parsley until shells open (about 5–8 minutes).
- Green Mussels with Garlic Butter: Cook thawed mussels with garlic and butter just until opened, then spoon over crusty bread.
- Broiled Mustard or Cheese: Top with a mustard-cream or cheese topping and broil briefly for a creamy variation.
How to Tell if Green Mussels Are Good
- Shells should be closed or close when tapped.
- Look for a fresh smell like the ocean, not fishy.
- No cracked shells.
- If mussels don’t open during cooking, you need to discard them.
Storage & Safety
- Fresh or Thawed Mussels: Store in fridge covered with a damp cloth up to 1–2 days.
- Cooked Mussels: Refrigerate in airtight container up to 2 days and reheat gently.
- Do Not Freeze After Cooking: Texture degrades and can become tough.
What is the Topping is soggy?
Mussels were too wet when broiled, so make sure to pat dry first.
Why are Mussels tough?
They were overcooked so make sure to reduce broiling time.
What if Bread topping is not browning?
Broil closer to the heat source, about 5–6 inches.
What are green mussels / New Zealand mussels?
Green mussels are large mussels native to New Zealand, known for sweet flavor and green lip shells.
Are green mussels healthy?
Yes. They are rich in protein, omega-3s, iron, and vitamin B12.
How long do you cook green mussels?
Depending how many lbs you're cooking, usually about 6–8 minutes under broiler or 5–8 minutes steamed or sautéed.
Can you eat mussel shells?
No; only the meat is edible.
Do you have to thaw frozen mussels?
Yes, you need to thaw before cooking for best texture.