5 Classic Italian Seafood Dishes You Have to Try

Italian cuisine is known worldwide for its diverse and flavour-packed recipes and its seafood dishes are no exception.

If you’re visiting an Italian restaurant any time soon, exploring the array of classic seafood dishes can provide a memorable culinary experience. Here are five that are popular choices.

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Spaghetti alle vongole, or spaghetti with clams, is an Italian seafood dish that highlights the simplicity and elegance of the cuisine. This meal typically features spaghetti tossed with fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, white wine, and parsley.

The beauty of spaghetti alle vongole lies in its straightforward preparation and the use of high-quality and fresh ingredients. The salty flavour of the clams combined with the aromatic garlic and the slight acidity of the white wine create an amazing balance that is both light and satisfying. It’s the perfect choice for a lunchtime meal.

Fritto Misto di Mare

Fritto misto di mare offers an assortment of fried seafood, including shrimp, squid and small fish. The seafood is lightly battered and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy and very tasty dish that is often served with lemon wedges and a simple dipping sauce.

Fritto misto di mare brings together a variety of textures and flavours, making it an excellent choice for seafood lovers. The light batter allows the natural flavours of the seafood to come through, while the frying process adds a satisfying crunch. It’s the perfect dish for sharing.

Risotto ai Frutti di Mare

Risotto ai frutti di mare, or seafood risotto, is a rich, creamy dish that features a medley of seafood such as mussels, clams, shrimp, and squid. The rice is cooked slowly with a seafood broth and white wine absorbing all the flavours to create a luxurious and comforting meal.

The creamy texture of the risotto combined with the fresh seafood creates a decadent dish that is both hearty and elegant. The use of seafood broth enhances the depth of flavour, making each bite a delicious experience. It’s a great dish for a winter’s night.

Zuppa di Pesce

Italian fish soup is another hearty dish that features a variety of fish and shellfish simmered in a tomato-based broth with garlic, onions, and herbs. It’s a rustic option that is often served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious soup.

Zuppa di pesce reflects coastal Italian cooking, where fresh seafood is abundant. The rich tomato broth is infused with the flavours of the sea, creating a comforting and aromatic dish. The variety of seafood used in the soup ensures a complex and satisfying flavour profile, making it a standout choice in any Italian restaurant.

Branzino al Forno

Branzino al forno, or baked sea bass, is a simple yet elegant dish that helps bring out the natural flavours of the fish. The sea bass is typically baked with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, resulting in a tender and flavourful main course.

The simplicity of branzino al forno allows the delicate flavour of the fish to take centre stage. Baking it with fresh herbs and lemon enhances its natural taste without overwhelming it. This is another dish that is perfect for a lunchtime meal.

Exploring these classic seafood dishes should provide a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of Italian cuisine. Each dish brings a unique combination of flavours and textures, showcasing the best of what Italian seafood has to offer.