A comforting yet elegant dish, Seafood Pasta captures the essence of the ocean in every forkful — tender shrimp, mussels, squid, and scallops tossed in a rich tomato sauce that clings beautifully to strands of spaghetti.
It’s the kind of meal that feels like a seaside escape — simple, satisfying, and bursting with Mediterranean charm.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something cozy, this pasta delivers both comfort and sophistication.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with a variety of seafood for incredible depth of flavor.
The tomato-based sauce is rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of garlic and herbs.
Comes together in under 40 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile enough to serve with spaghetti, linguine, or even crusty bread.
Tastes restaurant-quality but easy enough for home cooking.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Spaghetti – A long pasta like spaghetti or linguine helps catch all that flavorful sauce.
Olive oil – Adds richness and an authentic Italian touch.
Garlic and onion – The aromatic base that gives the sauce its depth.
Tomato paste and sauce – Create a smooth, savory base with a natural sweetness.
White grape juice or fish broth – Lends subtle acidity and brightness without overpowering the seafood.
Mixed seafood and mussels – A blend of shrimp, squid, scallops, and mussels makes this dish hearty and full of texture.
Fresh parsley – Adds color and freshness at the end.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cook the seafood only briefly — overcooking can make it tough.
Simmer the sauce slowly so flavors meld beautifully.
If you’re using frozen seafood, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Add a small knob of butter at the end for extra silkiness.
How to Make Seafood Pasta
Step 1 – Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2 – Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3 – Build the Sauce
Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to caramelize slightly.
Pour in white grape juice (or fish broth) and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the liquid reduce slightly.
Step 4 – Combine Tomato Sauce and Seasonings
Stir in tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped parsley.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Step 5 – Add the Seafood
Add the mixed seafood and mussels to the sauce.
Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and mussels have opened.
Discard any closed mussels.
Step 6 – Toss with Pasta
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat with the sauce.
If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the mixture.
Step 7 – Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with remaining parsley and serve hot.
Garnish with lemon wedges if desired for a fresh burst of flavor.
What to Serve It With
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness.
Garlic bread or toasted baguette makes the perfect side for soaking up the sauce.
Pair with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
For a fuller meal, serve with roasted asparagus or zucchini.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap spaghetti for linguine or fettuccine for a different texture.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use only shrimp and squid if you prefer fewer seafood types.
Replace tomato sauce with cherry tomatoes for a lighter, fresher version.
Add a splash of cream or butter for a luxurious, creamy seafood pasta.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth — avoid overcooking seafood.
Not recommended for freezing, as seafood can become chewy when thawed.
Best enjoyed fresh, right after cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before cooking to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti or linguine are classic choices, but penne or tagliatelle also work well.
Can I skip the white grape juice?
Yes, you can use fish broth, vegetable broth, or even white wine for a similar flavor.
How do I keep the seafood tender?
Cook it just until opaque — usually 2–3 minutes is enough.
Can I make this creamy?
Yes, stir in a splash of cream or a knob of butter at the end.
Is it spicy?
Not by default, but you can add red chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.
Can I add other seafood like crab or clams?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible — use your favorite seafood mix.
How do I know mussels are safe to eat?
They should open while cooking. Discard any that stay closed.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles for an easy substitution.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead?
Yes, make the sauce in advance and reheat before adding seafood and pasta.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Pasta is comfort food with coastal flair — a perfect balance of hearty and fresh.
The combination of tender seafood, savory tomato sauce, and fragrant garlic makes every bite satisfying.
It’s a beautiful meal to share, easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
Serve it fresh, sprinkle with parsley, and enjoy the warmth of the Mediterranean right at your table.
