Cioppino with Gremolata: An Irresistible Seafood Feast

If you’ve ever dreamed of savoring a rich, hearty seafood stew that embodies the essence of the ocean, our Cioppino with Gremolata recipe is your culinary dream come true. This Italian-American classic combines tender clams, succulent shrimp, firm white fish, and plump mussels simmered in a tomato-and-herb broth, then finished with a vibrant, citrusy gremolata that elevates every bite. It’s the perfect balance of depth, freshness, and elegance—ideal for impressing family or friends, or simply indulging in a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Ingredients & Their Role

• 1 lb Clams – Provide a natural briny sweetness and texture.
• 1 lb Mussels – Add a tender, juicy bite and deepen the seafood flavor.
• 1 lb Shrimp, large – Contribute sweetness and succulent meat to the stew.
• 1 lb Fish (cod or halibut, skinless, firm) – Gives body and mild flavor, absorbing the stew’s spices beautifully.
• 1 1/4 cups Seafood or fish broth – Enhances umami depth and richness.
• 1 1/4 cups Dry white wine – Provides acidity and balances the seafood’s natural sweetness.
• 1 large Fennel bulb – Adds aromatic, subtle licorice notes.
• 1 large Onion – Forms the flavorful base of the broth.
• 3 Garlic cloves – Infuses the stew with a warm, aromatic punch.
• 1 28-oz can Whole Tomatoes – Offers acidity, sweetness, and richness.
• 1 12-oz jar Roasted Red Peppers – Adds smoky sweetness and complexity.
• 1/2 cup Assorted Pitted Olives – Provides briny, salty bursts of flavor.
• 2 tsp Dried Oregano – Lends earthy, Mediterranean notes.
• 2 tsp Dried Thyme – Enhances herbal depth.
• 1 pinch Chili flakes – Adds subtle heat.
• 1/2 tsp Coarse Salt + pinch extra – Balances and amplifies flavors.
• 2 tbsp Olive oil (for cooking) – Sautéing base for aromatic vegetables.
• 1/4 cup Olive oil (for gremolata) – Ensures a bright, luscious finish.
• Peel of 1 Orange – Zesty citrus brightness for the gremolata.
• About 2 oz Parsley, roughly chopped – Fresh herbaceous finish for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the base: Finely chop the onion, fennel, and garlic. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add aromatics and spices: Stir in dried oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute to release essential oils.
3. Incorporate tomatoes and peppers: Add the canned tomatoes (crush them with your hands or a spoon) and roasted red peppers. Simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Deglaze with white wine: Pour in the wine and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Add seafood broth: Stir in 1 1/4 cups seafood broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and season with coarse salt and a pinch of extra salt to taste.
6. Cook the seafood: Start with clams and mussels, cover, and cook for 5 minutes. Then, add fish pieces and shrimp, simmering gently until all seafood is just cooked and shells open, about 5–7 more minutes. Discard any unopened shells.
7. Prepare the gremolata: In a small bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, orange peel, and 1/4 cup olive oil. Stir until fragrant.
8. Finish the stew: Ladle cioppino into bowls, spoon gremolata over each serving, and garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Use fresh, firm fish to prevent disintegration during cooking.
• Do not overcook shrimp; they become rubbery quickly.
• For extra depth, simmer the tomato base for up to 20 minutes before adding seafood.
• Always discard unopened clams or mussels to ensure freshness and safety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cioppino with Gremolata with crusty bread or a side of garlic buttered baguette to soak up the luscious broth. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the perfect harmony of flavors. A light salad with arugula, fennel, and citrus dressing makes an ideal companion for a balanced, gourmet meal.

Conclusion

This Cioppino with Gremolata recipe transforms your kitchen into a seaside trattoria. Bursting with fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and bright citrus notes, it is both comforting and elegant. Despite its gourmet appearance, the recipe is surprisingly simple, making it perfect for home cooks who crave exceptional flavor without the fuss. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this stunning, restaurant-quality seafood stew—a dish that is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.