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Zuppa di Pesce (Italian Fish Soup)

Zuppa di Pesce is a classic Italian seafood soup bursting with the fresh, briny flavors of the sea. This comforting coastal dish combines tender shrimp, calamari, and mussels in a rich tomato and white wine broth, creating a soul-warming experience in every spoonful. Perfect for seafood lovers and anyone craving an authentic taste of Italy.
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Prep Time 13 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb mussels cleaned
  • 1 lb calamari sliced into rings
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups fish stock or broth
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Crusty bread for serving

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Deglaze with Wine: Add the white wine to the pot and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and fish stock. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Incorporate the Seafood: Add the shrimp, mussels, and calamari. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels open and all seafood is cooked through.
  5. Season and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread.

Notes

Feel free to add clams, scallops, or chunks of white fish like cod or halibut. Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat. Serve with toasted garlic-rubbed bread or a side of pasta to make it a more filling meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the seafood.