Frozen Mussels — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

When purchasing frozen mussels, they should be sealed tightly in their shells with no signs of damage. Ensure the package is free of ice crystals or frost, which can suggest they have been stored for too long.

Reject any mussels that are open or have broken shells. Quality frozen mussels should have a clean, fresh smell and no discoloration when prepared.

Frozen mussels should remain in the freezer until ready to cook. Keep them in their original packaging or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, frozen mussels can last up to three months.

Repeated thawing can negatively impact the texture of mussels. Exposure to air and light should be avoided. Ensure the container is airtight to maintain their freshness and prevent freezer burn, preserving their taste and quality.

Frozen mussels can last for 3-4 months in the freezer when stored in an airtight container or freezer bag. For the best quality, consume them within this time frame.

Leftover frozen mussels can be used in a variety of flavorful seafood dishes. Steam them with garlic, white wine, and herbs for a simple and elegant dish, or add them to a seafood pasta with a tomato or cream sauce. Mussels are also great in seafood stews or chowders, where they add depth and richness.

Use mussels in a paella or risotto, where their briny flavor complements the other seafood and rice. If you have a lot of mussels, consider making a batch of mussels in garlic butter and serving them with crusty bread for dipping. Mussels can also be added to a seafood salad with a tangy vinaigrette or mixed into a seafood pizza with other shellfish. For a quick appetizer, serve steamed mussels with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Frozen mussels are a nutrient-rich seafood packed with protein, promoting muscle health and tissue repair. They are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation. Mussels provide important minerals like iron, promoting blood health by preventing anemia, and selenium, supporting immune health by protecting against oxidative stress. Their low-calorie content makes them ideal for weight management.