Barbara has been helping out at our library in town, getting things ready for the annual book sale there.  Sometimes she spots a cookbook I would like, and she brings it home for me.  A few days ago, I was thrilled to receive Heart of the Artichoke, by David Tanis.  It’s a beautiful book, very well-written, and it has some excellent recipes.  Today’s lunch, Mussels Marinière, Brittany Style, was perfect for the pound of mussels I bought at Quarterdeck Sea Foods this morning.

Recipe

It was easy to follow.  I used only a little butter plus a little olive oil, and I didn’t bother with the parsley because I was too hungry to take the time to find, clean, and chop it.  Twenty five minutes later, I had a delicious lunch and photos to display.  Not even close to vegan, but it was a good source of B-12 vitamins.  And flavor.

in the pot

steamed open

served in the big bowl

second helping, with Rustic Italian bread from Clear Flour, for sopping par excellence