Seafood Stew

Seafood Stew
Prep Time:
30m
Cook Time:
45m
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Medium
Indulge in the robust flavors of the ocean with this vibrant Seafood Stew, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together a delicate balance of tender shellfish and aromatic vegetables. This hearty stew combines the savory richness of olive oil, onions, and garlic with the bright sweetness of red bell pepper, creating a fragrant base. A medley of mussels, shrimp, and calamari is simmered in a luscious broth made from crushed tomatoes, fish or vegetable stock, and a splash of dry white wine, delivering a complex depth of flavor. The stew is elevated with a hint of oregano and a touch of red pepper flakes, adding warmth and subtle heat. Finished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and garnished with a dollop of vibrant pesto, this dish is sure to impress with its sophisticated, yet comforting qualities. Perfectly seasoned with salt and pepper, every spoonful transports you to the heart of coastal cuisine.
Equipment Needed
Large Pot or Dutch Oven
Cutting board
Knife

Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
4 cups fish or vegetable broth
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 pound calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and red bell pepper, cook for another 2 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, white wine (if using), oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
Add mussels, shrimp, and calamari. Cover and cook until mussels have opened and shrimp is pink, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any mussels that do not open.
Stir in fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with pesto.
Notes
You can substitute other seafood such as clams, scallops, or fish fillets. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.