Fan of the rich and spicy taste of seafood mixed with some tangy, flavourful sauce?
This fresh shrimp, clams, mussels, and calamari, drenched in a flavorful sauce, Seafood fra diavolo, is a perfect dish for you.
It’s an Italian-American classic that has won hearts worldwide, combining seafood with a kick of heat and a burst of rich tomato flavor.
Whether served at a restaurant or made at home, this dish is a delight for any seafood lover.
What is Seafood Fra Diavolo?
Seafood fra diavolo is an Italian-American dish made with a variety of seafood like shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid, cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.
The name fra diavolo translates to brother devil in Italian, referring to the spicy kick in the dish. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a touch of heat.
This dish can be found at many Italian restaurants in cities like New York, Jersey City, and Las Vegas, as well as popular Italian restaurant chains such as Carmine’s and Maggiano’s.
Some spots, like Laico’s in Jersey City, are especially known for their take on the dish.
Ingredients Required for Seafood Fra Diavolo
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Fresh Seafood (Shrimp/Clams/Calamari) | 12 oz (peeled and deveined) |
Pasta (Linguine or spaghetti) | 12 oz |
Crushed or Diced Tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) |
Garlic | 4 cloves (minced) |
Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
Red Pepper Flakes | 1-2 teaspoons |
White Wine | 1/2 cup (dry white wine) |
Fresh Parsley | 2 tablespoons (chopped) |
Fresh Basil (optional) | 1 tablespoon (chopped) |
Salt and Pepper | To taste |
How to Prepare Seafood Fra Diavolo?
Here’s your complete guide to a perfectly cooked Restaurant Style Seafood Fra Diavolo:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Once boiling, add the linguine (or spaghetti) and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 9-11 minutes, until al dente or firm to bite but not hard.
Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside and keep it warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes to taste. This adds a kick to the dish, so adjust according to how spicy you like it.
Step 3: Cook the Seafood
Add the Shrimps to the skillet.
Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink.
If you notice any clams that don’t open, discard them to ensure the freshness of the dish.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and White Wine
Pour the crushed or diced tomatoes into the skillet with the seafood.
Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Add the white wine to the skillet and let it simmer for about 5-6 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the sauce to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the seafood mixture.
If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silkier texture.
Toss everything until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring all the seafood is mixed in.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the seasoning is balanced to your preference.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and basil over the pasta and seafood for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Stir lightly to incorporate.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the seafood fra diavolo hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
For extra flavor, you can squeeze a little lemon juice on top right before serving.
The citrus will brighten up the rich, spicy sauce.
What’s New in Market on Seafood Fra Diavolo?
In recent years, chefs have been experimenting with creative variations in Seafood Fra Diavolo.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ones among them.
Some Modern Twists
- Unique Seafood Choices: Many restaurants are customizing the dish with a variety of seafood beyond the classic. Lobster, scallops, and even sustainable fish are being added for a richer experience.
- Vegan and Vegetarian Versions: VeganlobsterFra Diavolo, often using hearts of palm or plant-based seafood substitutes, is gaining popularity, making the dish accessible to more diners.
- Customization: Diners are encouraged to mix and match seafood, adjust spice levels, and even swap pasta for alternatives like zoodles or gluten-free options.
Viral Recipes and Videos to Check Out!
- Viral Videos: Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube feature viral Fra Diavolo recipes, including chef-led tutorials and quick weeknight versions. Notable examples include Chef Chaz’s Lobster Fra Diavolo.
- Celebrity Chefs: Chefs like Tyler Florence and Ina Garten have published approachable, flavorful Fra Diavolo recipes, often adding their own signature touches.
- Influencer Recipes: Food bloggers and influencers are creating 20-minute or one-skilletFra Diavolo recipes, making the dish more accessible for home cooks pressed for time.
Sustainable and Health-Conscious Trends
- Sustainable Seafood: There is a growing emphasis on using sustainably sourced seafood in Fra Diavolo, reflecting wider consumer demand for eco-friendly dining.
- Healthier Ingredients: Some recipes replace pasta with vegetables (zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash) or add extra vegetables for a lighter, nutrient-rich meal.
Seafood Fra Diavolo: Health Status Check
Tips for Making the Best Seafood Fra Diavolo
Time to give you some tips for a Chef-style Seafood Fra Diavolo that makes everyone lick their fingers.
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh seafood makes a huge difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Adjust the Spice: Control the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Overcooked seafood can become rubbery, so be sure to add the seafood last and cook it just enough to remain tender.
- Use Quality Wine: A good white wine can elevate the flavor of the sauce, so pick something that you enjoy drinking.
Summing It Up
Seafood fra diavolo is an easy-to-make dish that combines the best of seafood and a spicy, rich tomato sauce.
Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to please.
With just the right combination of fresh seafood, bold spices, and a flavorful sauce, seafood fra diavolo is sure to be a hit at your table.
Give it a try, and feel free to make adjustments to suit your taste.
It’s a dish that’s as adaptable as it is delicious!