Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean? Then look no further! This Frutti di Mare recipe is your ticket to a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's bursting with fresh seafood, fragrant herbs, and a touch of zesty lemon – a true taste of paradise on your plate. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, even for beginner cooks looking for delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mixed seafood (mussels, clams, shrimp, calamari – use your favorites!), cleaned and scrubbed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Seafood: Rinse the seafood thoroughly under cold water. If using mussels and clams, gently scrub their shells to remove any debris. Discard any that are open and don't close when tapped.
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Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Add the Seafood: Add the seafood to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's just cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes depending on the type of seafood. Shrimp will cook quickly, while mussels and clams will need a bit longer. You'll know they're done when the shells of the mussels and clams have opened.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to reduce slightly.
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Stir in Herbs and Seasoning: Add the parsley, basil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve Immediately: Serve your Frutti di Mare hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Best Frutti di Mare:
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Use fresh, high-quality seafood: The flavor of this dish depends heavily on the freshness of your ingredients. Buy your seafood from a reputable fishmonger or market.
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Don't overcook the seafood: Overcooked seafood will be tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it's opaque and cooked through.
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Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or herbs, depending on your preference.
Variations:
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Add vegetables: Enhance your Frutti di Mare by adding chopped tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the seafood.
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Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
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Creamy Frutti di Mare: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific seafood used and portion sizes. However, Frutti di Mare is generally a healthy meal, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
This simple yet impressive Frutti di Mare recipe offers a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a delicious dish for any occasion. Enjoy this taste of the Mediterranean from the comfort of your own kitchen! It’s a true testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients and is easily one of the best recipes you can make for an easy and healthy meal.