Some would be gourmet chefs tend to shy away from seafood because if not cooked properly it can be rubbery and tasteless.   Here is a easy and flavorful recipe for steamed mussels served in a rosemary broth that you may want to consider serving at your next intimate gathering.

First you must assemble the following ingredients; ¼ cup (1/2 stick) butter, 1 minced large shallot, 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary, 2 ½ pounds scrubbed and de-bearded mussels, ½ cup dry white wine, lemon wedges and rosemary sprigs for garnishing purposes.

With all your ingredients assembled you can begin cooking.   Start by taking a large heavy pot, add the butter and place it over a medium high flame.   Add the shallot and minced rosemary to the pot.  Sauté the mixture until the shallot is soft.   This will take approximately 3 minutes.  

Next add the mussels and the wine.   Bring the mixture to a boil.  Once the mixture has started boiling cover the pot with a heavy lid and steam the mussels open.  This will take approximately 6 minutes.   Be sure to discard any mussels that do not open after the steaming process is complete. 

Divide the mussels and broth among four deep soup bowls and garnish with a lemon wedge and a spring of rosemary.   Serve the mussels with a big loaf of fresh crusty bread, imported European cheese and a nice vintage bottle of white wine.