This Creamy Mussel Spread is an easy Spanish-inspired appetizer made with premium canned mussels, tuna, cream cheese, and mayonnaise. It takes only a few minutes to prepare, but the quality of the seafood makes it feel much more special.
The key to this recipe is using high-quality Spanish canned seafood, or conservas. Mussels in escabeche bring savory flavor, gentle acidity, and spice. Tuna in olive oil adds richness and depth, while cream cheese creates a smooth and creamy texture.
Serve this seafood spread chilled with crackers, canapé toasts, or mini blinis. It is an excellent choice for tapas nights, cocktail parties, holiday entertaining, or an easy appetizer when guests arrive.
Ingredients for Creamy Mussel Spread
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1 can mussels in pickled escabeche sauce from Ramón Peña or Dani
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3 large tablespoons cream cheese
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6 crab surimi sticks, chopped
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20 ml mayonnaise
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Crackers, canapé toast, or mini blinis for serving
How to Make Creamy Mussel Spread
1. Combine the seafood
Place the mussels in a large bowl, including their flavorful escabeche sauce. Add the tuna along with some of the olive oil from the can.
Using the liquids from the conservas adds extra flavor and gives the spread a softer texture.
2. Add the creamy ingredients
Add the cream cheese, chopped crab sticks, and mayonnaise.
Mix everything with a fork until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Blend until smooth
Transfer the mixture to a blender or use a hand blender directly in the bowl.
Blend until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and spreadable. There should be no large pieces remaining.
If your Creamy Mussel Spread feels too thick, add a little more mayonnaise. You can also add a small splash of dry white wine for a lighter consistency and extra flavor.
4. Chill before serving
Transfer the spread to a serving bowl or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Chilling allows the flavors to combine and helps the spread develop the ideal creamy texture.
How to Serve Spanish Mussel Spread
Serve the spread in small bowls surrounded by crisp crackers, mini toasts, or blinis.
For an especially good pairing, try Dill Crackers by Paul & Pippa or Quinoa Crackers by Paul & Pippa.
This easy Creamy Mussel Spread is a simple way to turn premium Spanish conservas into an elegant appetizer with very little preparation.
