Skip to main content

3-Ingredient Mussels With White Wine and Pesto

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This elegant pesto and white wine mussels dish is a masterclass in effortless entertaining. By using high-quality shop-bought pesto and a crisp dry white wine, you can create a sophisticated seafood bowl in less than ten minutes. The aromatic basil and garlic from the pesto infuse the steaming liquid, creating a fragrant broth that perfectly complements the succulent, briny mussels.

As a naturally dairy-free main or starter, this recipe is ideal for a light summer lunch or a comforting midweek supper. Serve these mussels in shallow bowls with plenty of crusty bread on the side to soak up every drop of the vibrant green sauce. It is a wonderfully healthy way to enjoy fresh shellfish with minimal preparation and maximum flavour.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Mussels With White Wine and Pesto

  • 240ml dry white wine

  • 900g mussels, debearded, scrubbed

  • 80g fresh store-bought pesto

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

How to make 3-Ingredient Mussels With White Wine and Pesto

Bring wine to a boil in a large pot. Add mussels, cover, return to a boil, then reduce heat and bring to a simmer. Cook mussels until they open, 3–4 minutes. Stir in pesto; season with salt and pepper.

Using a slotted spoon, divide mussels among bowls. Top evenly with broth and serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.