This Easy Cioppino (Seafood Stew) is a hearty, comforting dish filled with clams, mussels, cod, shrimp, and scallops, all simmered in a garlicky tomato-wine broth. Perfect for seafood lovers, this classic stew is simple to prepare and packed with rich flavors. Pair it with crusty bread for a meal that’s both cozy and satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium sweet onion, diced
1 small fennel bulb, cored and diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¾ cup dry white wine
1 (28-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable stock
2 cups clam juice
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 little neck clams, scrubbed
½ pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
1 pound cod or halibut filets, cut into ¾-inch pieces
½ pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 large sea scallops
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics:

Melt butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and fennel, cooking until tender (about 8 minutes).

2. Build the Broth:

Stir in tomato paste, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add wine, diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, clam juice, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Cook the Shellfish:

Stir in clams and mussels. Cover and cook on low heat until the shells begin to open (about 3–4 minutes).

4. Add Fish and Seafood:

Stir in cod, shrimp, and scallops. Simmer until the fish is cooked through, and the clams and mussels have opened completely (about 3–4 minutes). Discard any unopened clams or mussels.

5. Finish and Serve:

Stir in parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g

This Cioppino is a rich, flavorful stew that’s perfect for seafood lovers and makes for a comforting, elegant meal. Enjoy with family and friends! 🦪🍷🍞

The History and Inspiration of Cioppino

Cioppino originated in San Francisco during the late 19th century, created by Italian immigrants who adapted their native fish stew recipes to the local seafood available along the Pacific Coast. Traditionally made with whatever seafood was fresh or on hand, Cioppino became a signature dish of the region, embodying both the flavors of the Mediterranean and the diversity of the local catch.

This easy-to-make version captures the essence of the original recipe, offering a delicious blend of sweet, briny, and savory flavors that make it a beloved comfort food. Its rustic charm and adaptability make Cioppino a standout dish for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love Easy Cioppino

Cioppino has a unique appeal that makes it a favorite among seafood lovers:

Rich and Flavorful: The garlicky tomato-wine broth provides a robust base that perfectly complements the delicate seafood.
Simple Yet Elegant: Despite its gourmet presentation, Cioppino is easy to prepare, making it suitable for both weeknight meals and dinner parties.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything is cooked in a single pot, simplifying the preparation and cleanup process.
Versatile: You can customize the seafood and adjust the flavors to suit your preferences.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, Cioppino is as nutritious as it is delicious.

The Flavor Profile of Cioppino

Cioppino is a symphony of flavors that perfectly balances the richness of seafood with the heartiness of its tomato-based broth:

Briny and Sweet: The clams, mussels, shrimp, and scallops infuse the broth with natural sweetness and briny depth.
Herbaceous and Aromatic: Garlic, oregano, and fennel lend a fragrant, herbal quality to the stew.
Tangy and Robust: Tomato paste and diced tomatoes add a tangy, savory richness, while dry white wine enhances the broth’s complexity.
Slightly Spicy: A touch of crushed red pepper flakes gives the stew a gentle heat that warms the palate.

The result is a bold yet balanced dish that celebrates the natural flavors of the sea.

Perfect Occasions for Cioppino

Cioppino is a versatile dish that shines in a variety of settings:

Holiday Gatherings: Its impressive presentation and luxurious ingredients make it ideal for Christmas Eve or New Year’s celebrations.
Romantic Dinners: With its elegant flavors and inviting aroma, Cioppino is a perfect choice for a date night meal.
Family Dinners: As a one-pot dish, Cioppino is easy to prepare and serves as a comforting centerpiece for family meals.
Dinner Parties: Wow your guests with a flavorful seafood stew that pairs beautifully with wine and crusty bread.
Casual Weeknight Meals: With minimal prep and quick cooking time, this recipe can be a satisfying weeknight indulgence.

No matter the occasion, Cioppino delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cioppino

To ensure your Cioppino is as flavorful and visually appealing as possible, follow these tips:

Choose Fresh Seafood: Use the freshest clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish available for the best flavor and texture.
Clean Shellfish Thoroughly: Scrub the clams and mussels well and discard any that are cracked or fail to close when tapped.
Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Add the seafood toward the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
Layer the Flavors: Sauté the aromatics thoroughly to build a rich base before adding liquids.
Serve Immediately: Cioppino is best enjoyed fresh and hot, with plenty of crusty bread to soak up the broth.

These tips will help you create a dish that’s both delicious and visually stunning.

Customizing Your Cioppino

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own:

Change the Seafood: Substitute or add other seafood, such as crab legs, lobster, salmon, or squid, depending on availability and preference.
Adjust the Heat: Increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Add Vegetables: Include diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Serve with gluten-free bread or omit the bread altogether for a lighter meal.

These variations ensure that your Cioppino is tailored to your taste and dietary needs.

Pairing Suggestions

Cioppino pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, beverages, and desserts:

Sides:
- Serve with crusty sourdough or French bread for dipping.
- Pair with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus for a complete meal.
Beverages:
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.
- For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a light herbal tea.
Desserts:
- Finish with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or panna cotta to cleanse the palate.

These pairings enhance the overall dining experience and make the meal feel complete.

Health Benefits of Cioppino

Cioppino is a nutrient-rich dish that offers numerous health benefits:

High in Protein: The seafood provides a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Rich in Omega-3s: Fish and shellfish are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
Packed with Vitamins: The stew includes vitamin-rich ingredients like tomatoes, fennel, and fresh herbs.
Low in Carbs: With its tomato-based broth and minimal starch, Cioppino is naturally low in carbohydrates.
Customizable for Dietary Needs: The recipe can easily be adjusted to suit low-fat, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets.

These benefits make Cioppino a wholesome and nourishing choice for seafood lovers.

Conclusion

Easy Cioppino is a delightful seafood stew that combines the briny flavors of the ocean with a rich, garlicky tomato-wine broth. This one-pot dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant holiday feasts. With its tender seafood, hearty broth, and customizable ingredients, Cioppino is a versatile recipe that delivers both comfort and sophistication.

Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or trying Cioppino for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the timeless appeal of this classic dish. 🦪🍷🍞