Mussels and spinach may not be the first pairing that comes to mind, but once you try them together, you’ll understand why this dish earns the name “delight.” It’s light yet rich, simple yet elegant, the kind of meal that feels special without being complicated. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just treat yourself to something different, mussels and spinach deliver bold flavor in a surprisingly easy way.
Mussels cook quickly and bring a naturally briny, slightly sweet taste that pairs beautifully with leafy greens. Spinach adds a soft texture and earthy flavor that complements the mussels rather than competing with them. When sautéed together in a pan with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of white wine or broth, the result is a dish that’s both nourishing and flavorful.
This recipe works wonderfully as a starter or a light main course. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the savory juices, or spoon it over pasta, rice, or even a bed of mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. You can keep the seasonings simple with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, or add herbs like parsley or thyme for extra depth.
Mussels are also a great source of lean protein, iron, and omega-3s, while spinach adds fiber and essential nutrients like vitamin K and folate. It’s a healthy combination that doesn’t feel like a compromise. And since mussels are relatively affordable and cook in minutes, this dish is ideal for those nights when you want something quick but impressive.
Mussels and spinach delight is all about balance. It’s the mix of sea and earth, richness and freshness, that makes it memorable. There’s no heavy sauce or complicated prep, just good ingredients working together in harmony. One skillet, a few minutes, and a handful of pantry staples are all it takes to bring this flavorful meal to life.

Ingredients
- 2 pounds mussels
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 cups spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Clean the mussels by scrubbing them under cold water and removing any beards or barnacles.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened.
- Pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the mussels to the pot and cover it with a lid. Steam for about 5-7 minutes until the mussels have opened.
- Remove the mussels from the pot and set aside. Discard any mussels that did not open.
- Add the spinach to the pot and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the mussels and spinach in bowls, spooning some of the cooking liquid over the top.
- Enjoy!
This is a easy recipe, but my mussels didn’t open up! What did I do wrong? Help!
Why can’t I use frozen mussels? I think I’m going to try it anyway. It’s better than nothing right?
I think frozen mussels could work too! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Good luck!
I don’t know. I’ve never cooked mussels before and they looked so weird. I just couldn’t do it.
Mussels?? Gross! How can people eat those things? I won’t be trying this, sorry.
I didn’t have olive oil, so I just used butter instead. Still worked out fine! Yum!
I didn’t like it. The mussels tasted too fishy, and I ended up throwing most of them away. Maybe I did it wrong?
Maybe you cooked them too long? Fresh mussels shouldn’t taste fishy! I think they should be nice and sweet. Next time, try to get them really fresh.
This dish was amazing! I loved the mix of flavors, especially the white wine. Will make again!
My mom used to make something like this but with shrimp instead. Not bad for a mussel recipe!
I don’t know, mussels just seem so slimy to me… but my friend swears by this recipe.
Uh, are you supposed to eat the shells? I got confused. Lol.
Yummy! I made this last night and my whole family loved it! Gonna share this recipe!
That’s awesome! I’m glad your family enjoyed it! Mussels are so tasty and easy to make. 😊
So simple! Even I could do it. The wine doesn’t have to be fancy, right? Just needs to be wet.
Absolutely right! As long as it’s wet, you’re golden. I’m making this tonight!
I dunno, I feel like it should be good wine? What if it ruins the dish? Just my thoughts.
This recipe was amazing! The mussels were so fresh and flavorful! Absolutely loved it!
This dish was amazing! The mussels were so fresh, and the spinach added a nice touch. I will definitely make it again!
Easy to make and yummy! My kids loved it too. Thanks for sharing!
This is the simplest mussel recipe I found. 10/10 would recommend for beginners!!!
I tried this recipe and it turned out great! Super easy for beginners, just like you said. Thanks for sharing!
I think mussels are gross. How can you eat something that comes from the sea? Hell no! 😡
This dish was AMAZING! The mussels were so fresh and the garlic really brought everything together. I’m definitely making this again!
The instructions were clear, but I messed it up anyway. My mussels didn’t open! What did I do wrong?
Honestly, I wasn’t sure about the wine in this recipe. It seemed weird to me, but wow, it made a huge difference! New favorite!
I thought mussels were gross but my friend made this dish and it wasn’t bad. Still don’t think I’ll be making it again lol.
I totally get what you mean! Mussels do look kinda weird, but I’ve found them to be surprisingly tasty when cooked right. Maybe give it another chance sometime?
Mussels? Eww! I can’t believe people eat those. But hey, if your friend made it taste OK, that’s something. I’d stick to chicken, though.
I don’t get why people rave about mussels. They taste weird, and the whole cleaning process is too much for me.
Weird? Nah, they just need the right seasoning! You should try my recipe with lemon, it’s amazing!
I totally get it! Mussels are definitely an acquired taste. I once tried to clean them and nearly gave up! 😂
Best mussels recipe ever! I added some chili flakes for a kick 🔥. So good!
I tried this with some garlic bread on the side, and it was heavenly! Your chili flakes idea is awesome! 🌟
Sounds yummy, but mussels scare me a bit. Are they safe to eat if they don’t open? 🤔
Spinach? Nah, doesn’t sound right. Why would you put spinach with mussels? Sounds strange.
It doesn’t have to be fancy, but something you’d enjoy drinking. I’ve used Brancroff Sauv Blanc (about $12/bottle) and it was great.
Spinach was great. Try it!
Made it but forgot the wine. Still turned out pretty good, just not the same. 🤷♀️ Next time I’ll remember!
I was skeptical about mussels, but this turned out pretty good. Not sure if I’ll make it again, though.
I totally get you! Mussels can be hit or miss. Maybe try a different recipe next time? You might like them better!
I tried this but didn’t have white wine, so I used red 🤦♂️. It looked funny but still tasted nice! 3 stars.
Meh, it was kinda bland. I added some chili flakes but still eh.
I totally get you! I thought it needed more seasoning too. Next time, maybe try some lemon zest or a splash of hot sauce. 💥
Bland? Seriously? Just need to follow the recipe properly! It’s not meant to be spicy, it’s a classic dish.
Can I use frozen mussels? I don’t know where to buy fresh ones. Help!
NICE! Had dinner with my friends and they all loved it. I just added some cheese on top!
Fail. Never again. Didn’t taste like the ones I had in France. 🥴
Absolutely loved this recipe! The garlic and wine combo is divine. Will make again for sure!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! The garlic and wine really do elevate the dish, don’t they? Happy cooking!
It was too much wine flavor for me. I prefer my mussels with just butter and garlic.
I get what you mean! Sometimes too much wine can overtake the dish. Butter and garlic sound much better. Thanks for sharing your preference!
Yum! I added a little lemon juice and extra garlic. This is a keeper in my recipe book!
Lemon juice? I thought that was a bit much. And garlic can be overpowering. Hope it turned out good for you though.
Sounds delish! I love adding lemon to seafood dishes. It really brightens the flavors. I’m gonna try this soon!
So simple! My kids loved it and I felt fancy making it! Who knew cooking could be this easy?
Uh, isn’t that just steaming mussels? Not sure how this is so special, but glad you liked it.
I’m so glad your kids enjoyed it! It’s amazing how something so simple can feel fancy, right? Great job!
Who knew mussels could taste so good? But what if you don’t use wine? Anyway, very tasty!
Spinach? Why add that? Just give me the mussels! 🤷♀️
But mussels are the star here! Spinach just seems unnecessary. Just my opinion!
I think the spinach adds a nice flavor and nutrition! It’s not just about the mussels.
This recipe is amazing! I never thought mussels could taste this good. Definitely a keeper! 🌟
Really? Mussels are kinda gross though, I don’t get it. 🤔
I’m so glad you loved it! Mussels are an underrated gem. 🍽️