This Spaghetti Frutti di Mare is a seafood lover’s dream! Featuring a flavorful mix of clams, mussels, shrimp, and squid in a spicy Arrabiata sauce, this pasta dish brings authentic Italian flavors to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in restaurant-quality seafood at home, this recipe guarantees an impressive meal. With quick cooking times, it’s easy to make without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Italian Flavors: The spicy Arrabiata sauce perfectly complements the seafood medley.
- Fast and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish feels gourmet without the extra effort.
- Versatile: You can customize the seafood selection based on your preferences.
Pair it with Garlic Bread and a refreshing Arugula Salad for a complete Italian feast!
Ingredients
- 1 lb mixed clams and mussels, cleaned
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb squid tentacles
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup white wine
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- ⅓ cup fresh basil or chopped Italian parsley
- ¾ lb spaghetti
- 1 batch Arrabiata tomato sauce (prepared ahead)
- Sea salt, to taste
How to Make Spaghetti Frutti di Mare – Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Spices
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add the grated garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring briefly to release the aromas. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
3. Cook the Clams and Mussels
- Add the clams and mussels to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic oil.
- Pour in the white wine, cover the skillet, and allow the shellfish to steam for 1-2 minutes, until the shells begin to open.
4. Add the Shrimp
- Stir in the shrimp and cover again. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the shrimp begins to turn pink.
5. Cook the Squid
- Once the shellfish have opened and the shrimp is nearly done, add the squid tentacles.
- Cook for an additional 30 seconds, until the squid curls up. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery textures.
6. Warm the Sauce
- Meanwhile, heat the Arrabiata sauce in a small saucepan.
- Once warmed, pour the sauce over the seafood mixture in the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
7. Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together.
- If needed, pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and ensure it coats the pasta evenly.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta and seafood mixture to a serving platter.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with basil or parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, citrusy finish.
Recipe Notes
- Seafood Substitutions: You can use all clams, just shrimp, or even add scallops or lobster for a more luxurious dish.
- Pro Tip: Be sure to monitor the seafood closely—overcooking can result in tough, rubbery textures.
- Wine Pairing: Serve this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect match.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 646
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Protein: 46g
- Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 423mg
- Sodium: 1025mg
- Potassium: 463mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: 219mg
- Iron: 4.5mg
More Italian-Inspired Recipes to Try
- Classic Carbonara: A creamy, comforting pasta dish.
- Pasta Puttanesca: Bold flavors with anchovies, olives, and capers.
- Seafood Risotto: Another seafood favorite with creamy rice.
Final Thoughts on Spaghetti Frutti di Mare
This Frutti di Mare seafood pasta recipe delivers all the rich, briny flavors of the sea with a touch of spice from the Arrabiata sauce. It’s a fantastic dish for entertaining guests or indulging in a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish, and don’t forget a glass of white wine to elevate the experience!
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