When it comes to seafood, few cuisines can rival Italy’s rich tradition of preparing fresh catches with flair and flavor. With its extensive coastline and Mediterranean diet, Italy has a long history of cooking up delectable dishes that showcase the best of the sea. From simple yet elegant preparations like grilled swordfish with Mediterranean salsa, to more complex stews and sauces like cioppino, there’s no shortage of ways to get creative with fish in Italy.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 delicious Italian fish recipes that are sure to inspire your next seafood dinner. Whether you’re a fan of cod, branzino, sea bass, or another type of fish altogether, these authentic Italian recipes will guide you through the process of preparing mouthwatering dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Garlic Butter Italian Baked Cod
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic Garlic Butter Italian Baked Cod recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
3. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Branzino
This recipe combines the sweetness of branzino with the brightness of lemon and herbs, creating a dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. With its simplicity and quick cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 branzino fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place branzino fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Crispy Pan-Seared Sea Bass with Tomato Caper Sauce
Crispy Pan-Seared Sea Bass with Tomato Caper Sauce Recipe Summary: This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sea bass with a tangy and flavorful tomato caper sauce, all within a crispy pan-seared exterior.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the sea bass fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sea bass fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
4. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes, capers, and garlic; cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve the sea bass with the tomato caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuscan-Style White Fish with Spinach and Tomatoes
Tuscan-Style White Fish with Spinach and Tomatoes Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this simple yet flavorful white fish recipe, featuring spinach and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle with minced garlic and salt.
5. Top each fillet with a spoonful of diced tomatoes and a handful of fresh spinach leaves.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Italian Anchovy Pasta
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Italy with a spicy kick, perfect for those who love a little heat. This dish is quick to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (3 oz) Italian anchovies, rinsed and chopped
– 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and anchovies; cook 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add red pepper flakes and oregano to the skillet; stir for 30 seconds.
4. Drain pasta and add to the skillet, tossing everything together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Swordfish with Mediterranean Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the tender taste of grilled swordfish with the zesty punch of a Mediterranean salsa. Perfect for a light and healthy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mediterranean Salsa ingredients: see below
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, and mint.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the swordfish steaks.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill swordfish for 4-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare Mediterranean Salsa (recipe below).
7. Serve grilled swordfish with a spoonful of Mediterranean Salsa on top.
Mediterranean Salsa:
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Baked Italian Trout with Herbs and Lemon
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic baked trout recipe, infused with the bright zing of lemon and the warmth of Italian herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 lemon, sliced into thin wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place trout fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the trout, then sprinkle parsley, basil, and oregano evenly among the fillets.
5. Place a lemon wedge on top of each trout fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cioppino (Italian Seafood Stew)
Enjoy this classic San Francisco-style seafood stew, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or snapper), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/2 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/2 lb clams, rinsed
– 1/4 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup fish broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add fish, mussels, clams, shrimp, crushed tomatoes, white wine, fish broth, and oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Arugula Salad
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with a crispy Parmesan crust and a refreshing arugula salad. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for salad
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with lemon zest.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare arugula salad by combining fresh arugula leaves and your favorite dressing (e.g., vinaigrette).
7. Serve tilapia hot with arugula salad and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fisherman’s Risotto with Mixed Seafood
This hearty seafood risotto celebrates the bounty of the ocean, combining tender fish, succulent shrimp, and juicy mussels with creamy Arborio rice. A perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, scallops), cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, seafood, and saffron mixture; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until seafood is opaque.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with seafood.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add water, stirring continuously, until rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Shrimp and Scallop Linguine
This decadent yet simple recipe combines succulent shrimp and scallops with the richness of garlic, parsley, and linguine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces linguine
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and scallops; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove seafood from skillet, leaving juices behind. Add white wine (if using) and chicken broth; simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in butter until melted. Add parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked linguine and seafood mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Sardines with Lemon and Olive Oil
A flavorful and light Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 sardines in olive oil (drained)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the sardines under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Brush both sides of the sardines with the lemon-olive oil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the sardines on the grill or grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Baccalà alla Vicentina (Creamy Salted Cod)
A classic Italian recipe from the Veneto region, Baccalà alla Vicentina is a hearty and comforting dish that combines salted cod with creamy potatoes and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salted cod, soaked overnight and rinsed
– 2 medium-sized onions, thinly sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the soaked cod in salted water for 10-15 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until slightly browned.
4. Flake the cooked cod into the skillet and stir in minced garlic.
5. Pour in heavy cream and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes or until the cream has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pan-Fried Red Mullet with Cherry Tomatoes
Pan-Fried Red Mullet with Cherry Tomatoes: A flavorful and colorful dish that combines the delicate taste of red mullet with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 red mullet fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red mullet under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Place the red mullet fillets in the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Flip the fish over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
8. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
9. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
10. Serve the red mullet with the cherry tomato mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Seafood-Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional calamari, this recipe fills crispy fried squid rings with a savory seafood mixture and serves it in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut calamari tubes
– 1/2 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, crab), diced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together seafood, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Stuff each calamari tube with the seafood mixture, dividing it evenly among the tubes.
4. Dredge stuffed calamari in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry calamari in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer calamari to a baking dish and top with crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tomato sauce is bubbly and the seafood is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ligurian-Style Whole Roasted Snapper
Experience the bold flavors of Liguria with this simple yet impressive whole roasted snapper recipe, inspired by the Mediterranean coastal region. Aromatic herbs and citrus meld together to create a dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (2-3 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 4 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Stuff the fish cavity with lemon slices, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the snapper, season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the snapper in a roasting pan, roast for 20-25 minutes per pound or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven when flaky and tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes for a 2-3 lb snapper.
Pesce all’Acqua Pazza (Fish in Crazy Water)
This classic Italian recipe from the Amalfi Coast is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. Fresh fish, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato broth come together to create an unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as cod or sea bass), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, and dill)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add fish pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti alle Vongole (Clam Pasta)
This classic Italian dish combines the flavors of clams, garlic, and herbs with a rich and creamy sauce to create a deliciously simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pot, combine clams, garlic, white wine, clam juice, and thyme. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the clams open (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the clams from the shell and set aside. Strain the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids.
4. Add the olive oil to the pot with the clam broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Halibut with Artichokes and Olives
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of halibut with the savory taste of artichokes and olives. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the halibut fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the artichoke hearts, olives, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the artichoke-olive mixture evenly over each halibut fillet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fritto Misto di Mare (Mixed Fried Seafood)
This classic Italian recipe combines a variety of seafood in a light and crispy batter, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its medley of flavors and textures, Fritto Misto di Mare is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, calamari, scallops, clams)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each piece of seafood into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated seafood in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of accompaniments (e.g., lemon wedges, tartar sauce).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, depending on the size and type of seafood.
Summary
Experience the flavors of Italy with these 20 delectable fish recipes! From classic baked cod to spicy anchovy pasta, and from grilled swordfish to seafood-stuffed calamari, there’s something for every taste. Discover traditional dishes like Cioppino (Italian Seafood Stew) and Pesce all’Acqua Pazza (Fish in Crazy Water), as well as modern twists on old favorites. With a focus on fresh Mediterranean ingredients and bold flavors, these recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed coast of Italy. Treat your taste buds to an Italian culinary adventure!
