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If you’re a seafood lover with a penchant for classic Italian flavors, then look no further! We have a mouthwatering dish that combines the freshness of the sea with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. 

Its uncomplicated preparation and the marriage of the ocean’s bounty with the richness of tomatoes will have you coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and become a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, put on your apron and get ready to dive into the delightful world of seafood and tomatoes – bon appétit!

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Simple Seafood Tomato Pasta

By Sarah Diebboll

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

16 ounces of spaghetti or another noodle-shaped pasta
Kosher salt
1/4 cup olive oil
6 garlic cloves, sliced thin
1/2 teaspoon roasted red pepper flakes
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 pound mussels
1/2 pound clams
3 anchovy fillets
1/2 cup parsley, coarsely chopped or torn

 

INSTRUCTIONS

Boil the spaghetti in salted water until it becomes tender but firm (al dente). Drain the spaghetti and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and anchovies filets. Cook while stirring occasionally until the garlic turns lightly browned and toasted around the edges and anchovies melt away, which should take about 2 minutes. Sprinkle in some red-pepper flakes for added flavor.

Now, incorporate the canned tomatoes and 2 1/2 cups of water into the garlic mixture. Season the mixture with salt, bring it to a gentle simmer, and continue to cook while stirring occasionally until the sauce slightly thickens, maintaining a broth-like consistency. This process typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes.

Next, introduce the mussels and/or clams to the sauce, and add more salt as necessary for taste. Allow the seafood to settle into the tomato sauce and gently swirl the pot. Cook until the shellfish opens up, usually about 3 to 5 minutes.

Once the shellfish is cooked, add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and gently toss it to ensure even coating. Let the flavors meld together by cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
When ready to serve, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and drizzle some extra olive oil before presenting the delightful dish to your eager guests. Enjoy your scrumptious seafood spaghetti!

Tips:
For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
If you’re a fan of spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder to the sauce.
Experiment with different types of seafood and find your favorite combination.
To make it a wholesome one-pot meal, you can add some veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the sauce.