Easy Mediterranean-Style Seafood Stew
What’s for dinner? A warm, briny bowl of Mediterranean-style seafood stew—simple to make, packed with fresh local flavor, and perfect for dipping with crusty bread.
With over 30 varieties of Massachusetts fish and shellfish available year-round, this stew is a perfect use for what’s fresh—or frozen—from your summer catch. Whether it’s cod, haddock, flounder, mussels, or razor clams, this adaptable dish comes together with pantry staples and Mediterranean aromatics. The rich tomato base, infused with garlic, white wine, and herbs, makes every bite a coastal comfort.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 1 lb fresh fish fillets (e.g., cod, haddock, fluke), cut into chunks
- 1 lb fresh shellfish (e.g., mussels, littlenecks, or scallops)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (28 oz) can tomato purée
- 1 cup dry white wine
- ½ lb linguini pasta, cooked al dente
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh ground black pepper
- Crusty bread or rolls, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Base.
In a large pot over medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté the chopped red bell pepper and onion until softened (about 5–6 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. - Build the Stew.
Stir in the chopped and puréed tomatoes, followed by the white wine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes. - Add the Seafood.
Add the chunks of fish and shellfish directly to the stew. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the shellfish open and the fish is flaky and opaque. - Plate and Garnish.
For each serving, portion 1–2 scoops of stew over a serving of cooked linguini. Top with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a twist of black pepper. - Serve with Bread.
Don’t forget a warm, crusty roll or slice of sourdough to soak up every last bit of the tomato-garlic broth.
Healthy, Hearty, and Locally Sourced
This stew brings together the best of New England’s seafood bounty and the warmth of Mediterranean flavors. It’s healthy, filling, and endlessly flexible based on what you have on hand. Freeze summer-caught fish and shellfish to bring this dish back in the colder months.
Have a favorite seafood combo or a homemade twist? Share your stew stories in the comments!
