Cooking seafood has always been a passion of mine. There’s something magical about bringing the flavors of the ocean into my kitchen. When I whip up a dish like Seafood Delight, I feel like I’m capturing the essence of the sea right on my plate. This recipe is a delightful mix of shrimp, scallops, and mussels, all cooked to perfection with aromatic garlic and fresh tomatoes. The moment you take a bite, the flavors dance on your palate, transporting you to a sunny beachside restaurant. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their eyes lit up with joy as they savored each mouthful. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, Seafood Delight is sure to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into this oceanic bliss together!
Ingredients List
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops, cleaned and patted dry
1 pound mussels, cleaned and debearded
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup white wine (or vegetable broth)
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Seafood Delight
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Start by cleaning your seafood. For the shrimp, peel and devein them, making sure to remove the dark vein along the back. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, take the scallops and gently rinse them as well, ensuring they are clean and dry. For the mussels, scrub the shells under running water and remove the beards by pulling them away from the shell. Discard any mussels that are open and won’t close when tapped. Once everything is clean, set the seafood aside on a plate, ready for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. The aroma of the garlic and onion will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the delicious seafood to come!
Step 3: Cook the Seafood
Now it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, pour in the white wine (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will create a lovely base for the seafood. Carefully add the shrimp, scallops, and mussels to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let everything cook for 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the mussels have opened and the shrimp and scallops are opaque. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once the seafood is cooked, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the dish and add the lemon zest for a fresh burst of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve your Seafood Delight immediately, either on its own or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, or over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal. Enjoy the oceanic bliss!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Seafood Delight, you can savor the flavors without worrying too much about your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this dish knowing it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a delightful addition to your meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavorful Mix: The combination of shrimp, scallops, and mussels creates a symphony of ocean flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, Seafood Delight is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it with crusty bread or over pasta, this dish adapts to your dining preferences.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the seafood and fresh parsley make for a stunning dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Success
To make your Seafood Delight truly shine, focus on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh seafood is key; visit your local fish market for the best selection. When cooking, don’t rush the sautéing process; letting the onions and garlic develop their flavors is crucial. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the aromatics. For a richer flavor, you can substitute the white wine with a splash of seafood stock. Lastly, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. These small tweaks can elevate your dish to new heights!
Variations
One of the best things about Seafood Delight is its versatility! You can easily switch up the seafood based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Try adding calamari or crab meat for a different texture and flavor. If you’re a fan of spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding olives and capers. You can also experiment with herbs; fresh basil or dill can bring a new dimension to the dish. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your Seafood Delight leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the seafood may change slightly after freezing.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the seafood rubbery. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions about Seafood Delight that might help you in your cooking journey:
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, vegetable broth works well as a substitute. It adds flavor without the alcohol.
How do I know when the seafood is cooked?
The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, while the scallops should be firm and opaque. Mussels will open when cooked; discard any that remain closed.
Can I add more vegetables to Seafood Delight?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Seafood Delight is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Seafood Delight is a flavorful mix of ocean treasures.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops, cleaned
1 pound mussels, cleaned and debearded
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup white wine (or vegetable broth)
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the seafood: Clean the shrimp, scallops, and mussels. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Cook the seafood: Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes. Pour in white wine (or vegetable broth) and bring to a simmer. Add shrimp, scallops, and mussels. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until mussels open and seafood is cooked through. Discard any unopened mussels.
Finish and serve: Squeeze in lemon juice and add lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
