How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I make this dish without ouzo?

Yes, substitute white wine for a similar anise-flavored result.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

A mild goat cheese can be used as an alternative.

Can I freeze the cooked mussels?

It’s best to consume fresh, but you can freeze them; texture may slightly change.

Is there a non-spicy version?

Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder taste.

Greek Saganaki Mussels with Ouzo and Feta

Name: Greek Saganaki Mussels with Ouzo and Feta
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Fresh mussels; Olive oil; Garlic; Ouzo; Diced tomatoes; Onion; Crushed red pepper flakes; Black pepper; Feta cheese; Fresh parsley; Lemon wedges; Extra parsley; Crusty bread; Greek salad

A Flavorful Greek Seafood Delight

A vibrant and aromatic Greek dish featuring tender mussels in a rich, ouzo-infused sauce with tangy feta and herbs.

45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Mussels

Fresh mussels

2 pounds, scrubbed and de-bearded

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Ouzo

1/2 cup

Diced tomatoes

1 can (14 oz)

For the Sauce

Onion

1 small, finely chopped

Crushed red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon

Feta cheese

1/2 cup, crumbled

Fresh parsley

1/4 cup, chopped

For Garnishing

Lemon wedges

Extra parsley

For the Sides

Crusty bread

Greek salad

Preparation

Cleaning the Mussels

Rinse Mussels

Rinse mussels under cold water.

Discard Open Shells

Discard any that are cracked or remain open after tapping.

De-beard Mussels

Pull out the fibrous threads to de-beard.

Preparing the Sauce Base

Heat Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté Onions

Sauté onions until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute.

Be sure mussels are closed when you start cooking.

Cooking Process

Simmering Sauce

Add ouzo and let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Adding Mussels

Stir in tomatoes, then add mussels, cover, and cook until they open, about 8-10 minutes.

Finishing Touch

Stir in feta and parsley after cooking, then remove from heat.

Crushing feta slightly enhances its creaminess in the sauce.

Plating & Serving