The Best Italian Seafood Recipes with White Wine

Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and fresh ingredients, and when it comes to seafood, white wine plays a pivotal role in enhancing the dish's essence. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Italian seafood recipes featuring white wine, perfect for any seafood lover looking to elevate their culinary skills.

1. Linguine alle Vongole (Linguine with Clams)

Linguine alle Vongole is a classic dish that highlights the delicate flavor of clams. This simple yet elegant recipe requires:

• 400g linguine
• 1kg fresh clams
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• ½ cup dry white wine (preferably Pinot Grigio)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Start by soaking the clams in cold water for 30 minutes. Cook the linguine according to package instructions. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add the clams and white wine, covering the pan to steam until the clams open. Toss the cooked linguine in the pan with the clams, adding parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

2. Branzino al Sale (Sea Bass Salt Crust)

This method of preparation is not only impressive but also locks in moisture and flavor. For this recipe, you will need:

• 1 whole branzino (sea bass), cleaned
• 2 cups coarse sea salt
• 1 cup egg whites
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
• ½ cup white wine

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Mix the sea salt with egg whites until it resembles wet sand. Lay a layer of the salt mixture on a baking sheet, add herbs on top, and place the fish. Pour white wine inside the fish cavity and cover it entirely with the remaining salt mixture. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Once done, break the crust, and serve the fish with a drizzle of lemon juice.

3. Cozze al Vino Bianco (Mussels in White Wine)

Cozze al Vino Bianco is a dish that embodies the taste of the sea. Ingredients needed include:

• 1 kg fresh mussels
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Begin by cleaning the mussels thoroughly. In a large pot, heat olive oil and add garlic, sautéing until golden. Add the mussels and white wine, cover, and let them steam for about 5-7 minutes until all mussels have opened. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing finish.

4. Risotto al Mare (Seafood Risotto)

This creamy risotto brings together various seafood for a comforting dish. Ingredients include:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 700ml seafood broth
• 200g shrimp, cleaned
• 200g scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

In a saucepan, heat the seafood broth and keep it warm. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add the Arborio rice, stirring to coat it in oil. Pour in the white wine and let it absorb completely. Gradually add the warm seafood broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Add shrimp and scallops when the rice is almost cooked. Once the seafood is cooked, garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

5. Frittura di Pesce (Mixed Fried Seafood)

Frittura di Pesce is a delightful mix of fried seafood, perfect as an appetizer. You'll need:

• 300g small fish (such as anchovies and squid)
• ½ cup flour (for dusting)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt and pepper to taste