Italian fish stew, also known as Zuppa di Pesce, is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated in the coastal regions of Italy. The recipe typically includes a variety of fish and seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, and mussels, cooked in a rich and aromatic broth.
The dish is often served with a side of crusty bread or over rice, making it a satisfying and filling meal for any occasion. I first discovered this recipe while on vacation in Italy, where I fell in love with the combination of fresh seafood and fragrant herbs.
Since then, I’ve made it a staple in my household, serving it to my family and friends whenever they come over. One of the things I love about this recipe is the way it brings everyone together – it’s an easy and delicious meal to make in large quantities, perfect for family gatherings or parties.
In addition to its tasty flavor, Italian fish stew is also a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet. Seafood is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great option for those looking to improve their heart health.
My kids are particularly fond of this recipe because it’s so versatile – we like to add different types of fish and seafood depending on what’s available at the market. And even though it’s a bit more involved than some other recipes, the end result is well worth the effort – this stew is truly a showstopper when it comes to flavor and presentation.
Italian Fish Stew
4.5 from 1814 votes
A hearty and aromatic Italian fish stew made with a tomato-based broth, white fish, and shellfish. This one-pot meal is perfect for a comforting dinner and ready in under an hour.
1 pound firm white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into 2-inch chunks
1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
👨🍳Directions
1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the chopped onion, sliced fennel, and red pepper flakes, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
4Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5Stir in the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, bay leaf, and dried oregano.
6Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until the flavors meld and the liquid thickens slightly.
7Season the broth with salt and black pepper to taste.
8Gently add the fish chunks and shrimp, nestling them into the liquid.
9Cook for 4 minutes, then add the mussels, cover the pot, and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily, the shrimp are pink, and the mussels have opened.
10Discard any mussels that remain closed.
11Remove the bay leaf, sprinkle the stew with fresh parsley, and serve immediately in warm bowls with crusty bread.
For a richer flavor, substitute half the fish stock with clam juice. You can also add a pinch of saffron threads to the broth for a luxurious touch.
Watch Video Of How Italian Fish Stew Works
One of the best things about Italian fish stew is how well it stores – simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers for up to three days. Reheat by simmering gently on low heat until warmed through – be sure not to overcook your seafood!
This recipe also lends itself perfectly to meal prep – cook your seafood mixture on Sunday evening and portion out into individual servings throughout the week for an easy weeknight dinner. When serving Italian fish stew at a gathering or party, consider setting up a DIY toppings bar with crusty bread crumbs, chopped parsley or basil leaves (or both!)
, grated Parmesan cheese (optional), sliced lemons (optional), etc.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Fish Stew
Q: What type of fish should I use in Italian fish stew?
A: You can use a variety of fish and seafood in this recipe, such as shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, cod, haddock, or even salmon. Just be sure to choose fresh and sustainable options whenever possible.
Q: Can I make Italian fish stew without wine?
A: While wine is a key ingredient in traditional Italian fish stew recipes, you can omit it if you prefer or if you’re cooking for children. Simply substitute with an equal amount of water or broth.
Q: How do I know if my seafood is fresh?
A: When purchasing fresh seafood for your stew, look for items that are firm to the touch and have a pleasant ocean-like smell. If you’re unsure about the freshness of your seafood or if you’re cooking for young children or people with weakened immune systems, consider using frozen options instead.
Q: Can I make Italian fish stew ahead of time?
A: Yes, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time – simply cook the seafood mixture until it’s done and then refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.
Q: What are some good alternatives to fish in Italian fish stew?
A: If you’re not a big fan of fish or if you’re cooking for someone who doesn’t eat seafood, you can substitute with chicken or beef – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent my Italian fish stew from becoming too salty?
A: To avoid over-salting your stew, be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly – you can always add more salt but it’s harder to remove excess salt from the dish.
These bite-sized lemon tarts feature a crisp, buttery pastry shell filled with a tangy, smooth lemon curd. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon treat, …
A rich, earthy red chili made from dried New Mexico chiles and tender pork. This authentic New Mexican dish is simmered with garlic and oregano for a deep, comp…
A smooth and creamy buttercream icing that pipes beautifully and holds its shape. This recipe makes enough to generously frost 12 cupcakes with a swirl on top….
A rich and creamy custard dessert with a caramelized sugar topping, made low-carb and sugar-free. This classic French treat is perfect for those following a ket…
This classic comfort food features seasoned beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom and onion gravy. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that tastes just like …
