Shrimp & Mussels in Creamy Garlic Sauce with Garlic Bread

by

Description

This luxurious seafood dish brings together succulent shrimp and tender mussels in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. Perfectly paired with crispy golden garlic bread, it’s an elegant yet comforting meal that feels like dining by the coast. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the seafood, making it irresistible for dipping with the warm bread. Ideal for dinner parties, date nights, or when you just want to indulge in a restaurant-style dish at home.

 Ingredients For

For the Shrimp & Mussels

  • 1 lb (450 g) mussels, cleaned and debearded

  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken or seafood stock

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + thyme)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • Zest of 1 lemon + juice of ½ lemon

For the Garlic Bread

  • 1 baguette or Italian loaf, sliced lengthwise

  • 4 tbsp butter, softened

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • Pinch of salt

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Bread

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix softened butter, garlic, parsley, and salt.

  3. Spread mixture over sliced bread.

  4. Bake 10 minutes until golden and crisp. Keep warm.

2. Cook the Seafood

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add garlic and onion; sauté until fragrant (2–3 minutes).

  3. Pour in white wine, scraping the pan; let it reduce by half.

  4. Stir in cream, stock, chili flakes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer 5 minutes.

  5. Add mussels, cover, and steam until they open (5–7 minutes). Discard any unopened ones.

  6. Stir in shrimp; cook 3–4 minutes until pink.

  7. Add Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, and juice. Stir until creamy.

3. Serve

  • Transfer seafood and sauce to a large bowl.

  • Serve hot with garlic bread for dipping.

 Servings

  • Serves 4 people as a main dish.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approximate)

  • Calories: 480

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 26g

  • Carbohydrates: 22g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 3g

  • Sodium: 880mg

 Notes

  • Use fresh mussels if possible; frozen can be used but adjust cooking time.

  • White wine enhances the flavor, but chicken broth works well if you prefer non-alcoholic.

  • Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.

  • For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese.

 Tips

  • Always discard mussels that remain closed after cooking.

  • Don’t overcook shrimp; they turn rubbery quickly.

  • Use a crusty baguette for garlic bread—it holds up better when dipped in sauce.

  • Prepare the garlic bread while the sauce is simmering for perfect timing.

Benefits

  • High in protein from shrimp and mussels.

  • Mussels are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and B12.

  • Garlic and parsley add natural anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

  • A wholesome, satisfying seafood dish that’s restaurant-quality at home.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this without cream?
A: Yes, you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: What if I don’t have mussels?
A: You can use only shrimp, or substitute with clams or scallops.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: The sauce can be prepared ahead, but add seafood just before serving to avoid overcooking.

Q: What can I serve with it besides garlic bread?
A: Pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with this dish.

Leave a Comment