Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew

Name: Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g mussels, cleaned; 200g calamari, sliced; 200g white fish, cubed; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes; 500ml fish stock; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meal Recipes

This Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew is a delightful blend of fresh seafood simmered in a savory tomato broth, perfect for warming up your dinner table.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-11T20:49:05.830Z

This seafood stew is a classic Italian recipe that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With its rich tomato base and a medley of fresh seafood, it’s a dish that warms both body and soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato broth infused with herbs and spices
A variety of fresh seafood that adds depth and flavor
Perfect for sharing with family and friends

      

The Essence of Italian Cuisine

Italian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and this seafood stew exemplifies those qualities. Rooted in coastal traditions, this dish celebrates the bounty of the sea, combining various seafood in a rich, savory broth. The use of fresh herbs and spices elevates the taste, making each spoonful a delightful experience. The balance of flavors is both comforting and exciting, inviting you to savor every bite.

This stew is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the warmth of Italian hospitality to your dining table. The combination of seafood with the aromatic tomato broth creates a dish that is perfect for gatherings. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this stew is sure to impress and satisfy.

Perfect Pairings

When serving this Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino. These wines complement the seafood beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. The acidity of the wine balances the richness of the broth, making each sip a refreshing contrast.

For a truly authentic Italian meal, serve the stew with crusty bread. This allows your guests to soak up the delicious broth while adding a delightful texture to the meal. A simple side salad, dressed with olive oil and vinegar, can also provide a fresh contrast to the hearty stew, rounding out the meal perfectly.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing this seafood stew is simple. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the stew even more delicious on the second day.

To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of fish stock or water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency. Avoid boiling, as this can overcook the seafood. Serve it hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!

Ingredients

Seafood

200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g mussels, cleaned
200g calamari, sliced
200g white fish, cubed

Vegetables

1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
500ml fish stock
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper, sauté until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Tomatoes and Stock

Pour in the diced tomatoes and fish stock. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook the Seafood

Add the shrimp, mussels, calamari, and white fish to the pot. Cook until the seafood is tender and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Nutritional Benefits

This Italian seafood stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Seafood is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. Shrimp, mussels, and fish provide heart-healthy fats, which are crucial for maintaining good health and reducing inflammation.

In addition to the seafood, the stew includes a variety of vegetables and herbs that contribute to its nutritional profile. Onions and garlic are known for their immune-boosting properties, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.

A Versatile Dish

One of the best aspects of this seafood stew is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Feel free to swap out the seafood for your favorites, or add in other ingredients like clams or scallops to enhance the flavor profile.

Additionally, this stew can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining. Simply prepare the base and add the seafood closer to serving time to ensure everything is fresh and perfectly cooked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works well. Just ensure to thaw it beforehand.

→ What can I substitute for fish stock?

You can use vegetable stock or water, but the flavor will be milder.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the base ahead of time and add the seafood just before serving.