Prepare the Mussels: Begin by cleaning the mussels thoroughly. Scrub the shells under cold water to remove any debris, and use a knife to remove the beards from the shells. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.
Season the Mussels: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the mussels in this seasoning mixture to coat them evenly.
Arrange the Mussels in the Air Fryer: Place the mussels in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s best to arrange them so they are not stacked on top of one another, allowing the air to circulate properly.
Air Fry the Mussels: Air fry the mussels for 8-10 minutes. The shells will open up as they cook. If any mussels remain closed, discard them.
Serve and Garnish: Once the mussels are cooked, remove them from the air fryer. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.