Mediterranean Seafood Stew

A rustic, hearty stew inspired by coastal Mediterranean cuisine, this dish is brimming with shrimp, mussels, white fish, and aromatic herbs. Simmered in a tomato-garlic broth with a bright touch of citrus, it’s both comforting and elegant—perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Full of fresh, vibrant flavors reminiscent of the seaside.
  • Protein-rich and packed with healthy omega-3s.
  • A one-pot dish that is surprisingly easy to prepare.
  • Ready in under 40 minutes, yet impressive enough for entertaining.
  • Pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 1/2 cups seafood or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb white fish (cod or halibut), cubed
  • 1/2 lb mussels or clams, scrubbed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges and crusty bread (for serving)

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let flavors develop.
  4. Gently stir in white fish and cook for 3–4 minutes.
  5. Add shrimp and mussels, cover, and simmer for another 4–5 minutes until shrimp is pink and mussels open. Discard any unopened mussels.
  6. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and warm crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Add scallops, squid, or crab for a seafood medley.
  • Stir in spinach or kale for extra greens.
  • Use fresh fennel along with the onion for a subtle licorice flavor.
  • Replace some of the broth with white wine for a deeper flavor.
  • Make it spicier by adding more chili flakes or a touch of cayenne.

Storage/Reheating

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
  • Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as it may overcook the seafood.
  • Not recommended for freezing, since seafood can lose its texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.

2. What type of fish works best?

Firm white fish like cod, halibut, haddock, or sea bass hold up well in the stew.

3. How do I know if the mussels are fresh?

Fresh mussels should be closed. Discard any that are cracked or that stay open after tapping.

4. Can I make this stew in advance?

You can prepare the broth ahead of time, but add the seafood just before serving for best results.

5. Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, the stew itself is naturally gluten-free. Just serve it with gluten-free bread if needed.

6. Can I add pasta or rice?

Yes, orzo pasta, rice, or even potatoes can be added to make it more filling.

7. What can I serve alongside this stew?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair wonderfully.

8. Can I substitute the mussels?

Yes, clams or more shrimp/fish can be used instead.

9. How do I thicken the broth?

Simmer uncovered for a little longer, or add a spoonful of tomato paste for richness.

10. What wine pairs best with this stew?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Seafood Stew is a flavorful, wholesome dish that celebrates fresh seafood and simple ingredients. With its aromatic tomato base, tender seafood, and zesty citrus finish, it’s a recipe that feels both comforting and refined. Serve it with warm crusty bread for a complete meal that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

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Mediterranean Seafood Stew

Mediterranean Seafood Stew

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  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmered
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A rustic and aromatic Mediterranean seafood stew featuring shrimp, white fish, and mussels simmered in a spiced tomato-garlic broth with a splash of lemon and fresh herbs.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 1/2 cups seafood or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb white fish (cod or halibut), cubed
  • 1/2 lb mussels or clams, scrubbed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges and crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let flavors develop.
  4. Gently stir in white fish and cook for 3–4 minutes.
  5. Add shrimp and mussels, cover, and simmer for another 4–5 minutes until shrimp is pink and mussels open. Discard any unopened mussels.
  6. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and warm crusty bread.

Notes

  • Use a mix of fresh seafood for variety, or substitute with frozen if needed.
  • Add a splash of white wine with the broth for extra depth of flavor.
  • For a thicker stew, mash some of the cooked tomatoes before adding seafood.
  • Best served hot and fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg

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