Name: Quick Seafood Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb white fish, cut into chunks; 1 cup chopped tomatoes; 1 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fish or vegetable broth; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight lifesaver: Quick Seafood Stew! Seriously, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, and it’s packed with flavor that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I whip this up when I want something hearty yet simple to prepare, and it never disappoints. The combination of shrimp and white fish swimming in a savory broth, mingling with fresh tomatoes and aromatic garlic, is just divine!

Plus, it’s versatile! If you’ve got leftover veggies in the fridge, toss ’em in! This Quick Seafood Stew is perfect for those busy evenings when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I can remember the first time I made it; my family gathered around the table, and the aroma filled our home. It’s become a go-to recipe that I love sharing with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation too!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Quick Seafood Stew sing with flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Make sure they’re fresh for that sweet, briny flavor!
1 lb white fish, cut into chunks – I love using cod or halibut, but any firm white fish works great.
1 cup chopped tomatoes – Fresh or canned, they’ll add a lovely sweetness and acidity.
1 cup chopped onion – This will give the stew a nice aromatic base.
2 cloves garlic, minced – You can never go wrong with garlic; it makes everything better!
4 cups fish or vegetable broth – This is the heart of your stew, so go for a good-quality broth.
1 tsp salt – Adjust to your taste, but this helps enhance all the flavors.
1 tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked is best for that extra kick!

Feel free to play around with additional veggies like bell peppers or spinach, just to make it your own. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Quick Seafood Stew (30 min)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heating the Broth

First things first, grab your large pot and pour in those 4 cups of fish or vegetable broth. Place it over medium heat, and let it warm up gently. This step is super important because we want the broth to simmer, not boil violently. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles start to form around the edges. This should take about 5 minutes, so just hang tight while that warm, savory aroma starts to fill your kitchen!

Sautéing the Vegetables

Now it’s time to add flavor! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the pot. Stir them around with your wooden spoon and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for the onion to turn a lovely translucent color and the garlic to become fragrant. Trust me, this step is where the magic begins, and you’ll be tempted to just dive right in at this stage!

Adding Tomatoes and Seasonings

Once your veggies are softened, stir in the chopped tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. This is where your stew gets its depth. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The tomatoes will get all juicy and meld beautifully with the onions and garlic. It’s like a flavor party in there!

Cooking the Seafood

Now, the best part: adding the seafood! Gently add the shrimp and chunks of white fish into your bubbling pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp turn pink and the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Just keep an eye on it; you don’t want to overcook the seafood!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Quick Seafood Stew is done, ladle it into bowls while it’s still piping hot. I love to serve it with some crusty bread on the side to soak up that delicious broth. You could even sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy this cozy, hearty meal together!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a hearty meal without the guilt, this Quick Seafood Stew hits the spot! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 30g
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Vitamin C: 30mg
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 2mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands you choose. Regardless, you can enjoy this delicious stew knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Quick Seafood Stew comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: With a delightful mix of shrimp, white fish, and aromatic vegetables, every spoonful is bursting with fresh, savory goodness.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients from seafood and veggies, this stew is a wholesome choice that satisfies without weighing you down.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it a fun way to clean out the fridge!
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this stew, perfect for gathering everyone around the table.

Tips for Success

Ready to make your Quick Seafood Stew absolutely perfect? Here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way to ensure your stew is a hit every time!

Choose Fresh Seafood: Always go for the freshest shrimp and fish you can find. Fresh seafood makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you can, buy from a trusted fishmonger or the seafood counter at your local market.
Don’t Skip the Broth: The broth is the heart of this stew! A high-quality fish or vegetable broth enhances each ingredient’s flavor, so splurge a little on that. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have the time!
Prep Ahead: If you’re in a rush, chop your veggies and seafood ahead of time. Store them in the fridge so everything’s ready to go when it’s time to cook—this makes the cooking process even quicker!
Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so adjust the salt and pepper levels to suit your taste. You might even want to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a kick!
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can add a great flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly based on what you add.
Watch Cooking Times: Seafood cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Overcooked seafood becomes rubbery, so ensure the shrimp is pink and the fish flakes easily, but don’t leave it on the heat for too long.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your stew with crusty bread, rice, or over pasta for a heartier meal. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds brightness!

With these tips, your Quick Seafood Stew will be a delicious masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Variations of Quick Seafood Stew (30 min)

One of the best things about this Quick Seafood Stew is how easily it lends itself to variations! You can customize it to fit your taste or whatever you have on hand in the fridge. Here are some fun ideas to jazz up your stew:

Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate your stew to a whole new level! Try adding chopped parsley, dill, or basil right before serving for a burst of freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of tarragon pairs beautifully with seafood.
Spices: Want to spice things up a bit? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika adds a lovely warmth. For something different, consider adding curry powder for an exciting twist that gives the stew an exotic flair!
Vegetable Additions: Don’t hesitate to throw in more veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale can be wonderful additions. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the onion and garlic to let them soften before adding the broth.
Coconut Milk: For a creamy, tropical touch, stir in a can of coconut milk after adding the tomatoes. This will give your stew a rich texture and complement the seafood perfectly.
Beans or Lentils: If you want to bulk up the stew and make it heartier, consider adding a can of drained white beans or cooked lentils. They’ll add protein and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying!
Different Seafood: Feel free to mix up the seafood! Scallops, mussels, or even squid can add different textures and flavors. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as different seafood has different cooking requirements.

Experimenting with these variations not only keeps the dish exciting but also allows you to make it your own! Each time you whip up this Quick Seafood Stew, it can be a new adventure. Enjoy the process and have fun cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftovers from your Quick Seafood Stew? Lucky you! This stew keeps well, and I’ve got some simple tips to ensure it stays delicious for your next meal.

To store your stew, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should be good for about 2-3 months. I like to portion it out into smaller containers so I can grab just what I need for quick lunches or dinners later.

When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, you can reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave. For stovetop reheating, just pour the stew into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through – this usually takes about 5-10 minutes. If you’re using a microwave, place the stew in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot.

Just a quick tip: If the stew looks a bit thick after reheating, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Quick Seafood Stew again, and savor those delicious flavors all over again!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use frozen seafood for this Quick Seafood Stew?
Absolutely! Frozen seafood works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the seafood. You can add it directly to the stew while it’s simmering, but adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it cooks through.

Q2. What other vegetables can I add to this stew?
The beauty of this Quick Seafood Stew is its versatility! You can add any of your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be tossed in. Just remember to sauté them with the onion and garlic to soften them before adding the broth.

Q3. Is there a way to make this stew spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can definitely spice things up! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes. For an extra kick, a few dashes of hot sauce or a bit of diced jalapeño can do the trick. Adjust the spice level to your liking!

Q4. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, like chopping the veggies and seafood. However, I recommend cooking it fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you do have leftovers, they store well and can be reheated for a quick meal later!

Q5. What should I serve with this Quick Seafood Stew?
This stew is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta for something heartier. It’s all about what you enjoy!

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out my Pinterest page!