Cavatelli with Mussels, Lillet and Dill Recipe

Name: Cavatelli with Mussels, Lillet and Dill
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed; 1/4 cup dry white wine; 2 dill sprigs, plus 1 tablespoon chopped dill; 1/4 cup Lillet or dry vermouth; 3/4 cup creme fraiche; 1 small shallot, minced; 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest; 1 teaspoon finely grated grapefruit zest (optional); 12 ounces fresh cavatelli; Freshly ground pepper

Servings: persons

1
In a large saucepan, combine the mussels, wine, dill sprigs and 2 tablespoons of the Lillet and bring to a boil.
2
Cover and steam until the mussels open, about 4 minutes.
3
Transfer the mussels to a bowl and strain the juices into a medium bowl.
4
Remove the mussels from their shells; discard any mussels that don't open.
5
Rinse out the saucepan.
6
Return the juices to the saucepan and simmer until reduced to 3/4 cup, about 5 minutes.
7
Stir in the creme fraiche, shallot and the lemon and grapefruit zests.
8
Meanwhile, in a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until nearly al dente; drain.
9
Add the pasta to the saucepan along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of Lillet.
10
Cook over high heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce is thick and creamy, about 4 minutes.
11
Stir in the mussels and chopped dill and season the pasta with pepper.
12
Serve right away.

kcal

Calories

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed, 1/4 cup dry white wine, 2 dill sprigs, plus 1 tablespoon chopped dill, 1/4 cup Lillet or dry vermouth, and more.

Yes, Cavatelli with Mussels, Lillet and Dill falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Cavatelli with Mussels, Lillet and Dill

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions