Mussels

Dark-shelled bivalve mollusks (*Mytilus edulis* blue, *M. galloprovincialis* Mediterranean) with tender, mildly briny meat. Farmed mussels are among the most sustainable seafood in existence — they feed by filtering water, actually improving marine ecosystems, and require no added feed. Discard any that stay open when tapped before cooking, or stay closed after cooking. Classic moules marinière (white wine, shallots, parsley, butter) cooks in under 5 minutes; Belgian, Italian, Spanish, and Thai traditions all shine.