The Best Italian Seafood Pasta Recipes

Italian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and seafood pasta is one of its crown jewels. Combining the richness of pasta with the delicate tastes of the sea, these dishes are both comforting and indulgent. Here are some of the best Italian seafood pasta recipes that you can create in your own kitchen.

1. Spaghetti alle Vongole

Spaghetti alle Vongole, or spaghetti with clams, is a classic dish from the region of Campania. The key ingredients include fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes for spice.

To make this dish, start by cooking the spaghetti until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil, add the clams, and deglaze with white wine. Once the clams open, toss the cooked spaghetti with the clam sauce, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately.

2. Linguine al Nero di Seppia

Linguine al Nero di Seppia is a visually stunning dish made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a striking black color. The ink adds a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the oceanic taste of the squids used in the recipe.

To prepare this dish, cook linguine until al dente. Meanwhile, sauté sliced squid in olive oil and garlic, then add the cuttlefish ink, tomato sauce, and a splash of white wine. Combine the linguine with the sauce and serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

3. Fettuccine al Salmone

Fettuccine al Salmone, or fettuccine with salmon, is a creamy and satisfying option that highlights the richness of the fish. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal.

Begin by cooking fettuccine in salted water. In a separate skillet, cook chopped salmon in olive oil until lightly browned. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and fresh dill to make a creamy sauce. Toss the fettuccine with the salmon mixture, season with salt and pepper, and serve with grated Parmesan on top.

4. Orecchiette con Broccoli e Gamberetti

This dish features orecchiette, small ear-shaped pasta from Puglia, combined with broccoli and shrimp for a delightful texture and flavor combination. It's a simple yet elegant dish that showcases seasonal ingredients.

To prepare, cook the orecchiette alongside broccoli florets. In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil, add shrimp, and cook until pink. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then combine everything in the skillet, adding a bit of pasta water to create a light sauce. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and grated Pecorino cheese.

5. Penne alla Puttanesca di Mare

Penne alla Puttanesca di Mare is a twist on the traditional puttanesca sauce, incorporating seafood such as anchovies and mussels. This dish has a bold flavor profile with the briny accents of the sea mixed with the robust flavors of tomatoes and olives.

Start by cooking the penne al dente. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic, anchovies, and chili flakes. Add diced tomatoes, olives, and mussels, cooking until the mussels open. Toss in the pasta, allowing it to absorb the sauce, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

6. Tagliatelle al Granchio

Tagliatelle al Granchio is a luxurious pasta dish made with crab meat. The sweetness of the crab pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, making it a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Cook the tagliatelle in salted water. In a pan, cook garlic and shallots in olive oil, then add heavy cream and fresh crab meat. Mix the cooked tagliatelle into the sauce, add a splash of lemon juice, and finish with chopped parsley.

These Italian seafood pasta recipes are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. With fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can bring the taste of Italy right into your home. Enjoy these dishes with a glass of white wine for the ultimate dining experience!