One-Pot Spicy Spanish Seafood Stew

Name: One-Pot Spicy Spanish Seafood Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb clams, cleaned; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 tomatoes, diced; 2 cups fish stock; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Warm Meal Recipes

Delight in the flavors of the sea with this hearty and spicy Spanish seafood stew, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-11T17:09:05.954Z

This One-Pot Spicy Spanish Seafood Stew is a perfect blend of fresh seafood, spices, and aromatic vegetables. With a little bit of heat and a lot of flavor, it will transport you to the sunny coasts of Spain with every bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh seafood flavors and spices
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
A comforting dish that's great for sharing

      

A Taste of Spain

This One-Pot Spicy Spanish Seafood Stew is a delightful representation of Spanish cuisine, where the fresh catch of the day meets bold spices. Originating from coastal regions, this dish is a staple in many Spanish households, often served during family gatherings and festive occasions. The combination of shrimp, mussels, and clams not only creates a visually stunning dish but also offers a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.

The use of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper adds a unique depth of flavor, elevating the stew from a simple seafood dish to a culinary experience. These spices are essential in Spanish cooking, contributing to the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as the stew simmers. With each spoonful, you'll appreciate the balance of heat and savory goodness, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

Cooking with Fresh Ingredients

The key to a successful seafood stew lies in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for fresh seafood from a trusted fishmonger to ensure the best flavors and textures. When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent. Mussels and clams should be closed tightly; discard any that are open or cracked before cooking. Fresh vegetables like onions and bell peppers will enhance the stew, providing a sweet and savory base.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables can also add a personal touch to this recipe. Feel free to experiment with zucchini, corn, or even green beans, which can introduce new textures and flavors. Remember, a good seafood stew is all about balance—ensuring that the seafood shines while being complemented by the aromatic vegetables and spices.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this One-Pot Spicy Spanish Seafood Stew is as simple as it is delightful. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, allowing you to savor every last drop of the rich broth. A side of garlic aioli or a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the dish's spiciness. For those looking to elevate the meal further, a chilled glass of white wine or a light Spanish beer complements the stew beautifully.

Don't forget the garnishing! A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that ties the dish together. If you're feeling adventurous, consider topping each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors even more. This stew is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors meant to be shared among friends and family.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful seafood stew:

Seafood and Vegetables

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb clams, cleaned
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tomatoes, diced
2 cups fish stock
1/2 cup white wine
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your One-Pot Spicy Spanish Seafood Stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Incorporate the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the spices to bloom.

Pour in the Liquids

Add the white wine and fish stock to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Add the Seafood

Once the stew is simmering, add the shrimp, mussels, and clams. Cover the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels and clams have opened.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread!

Enjoy your delicious seafood stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the flavors!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing this stew is quite simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or fish stock to maintain the stew's consistency and flavor.

For those who want to enjoy their stew later, freezing is also an option. However, be cautious with the seafood, as freezing can alter its texture. If you choose to freeze, consider doing so without the seafood and adding it fresh when you're ready to enjoy your meal. This way, you can ensure the best quality and taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! For a creamier version, add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream towards the end of cooking. This will lend a velvety texture that beautifully complements the spices and seafood. Alternatively, you can swap out the seafood for chicken or vegetables for a different twist, making this stew a versatile dish suitable for various dietary preferences.

Another exciting variation involves adding legumes like chickpeas or white beans for added protein and fiber, making the stew even heartier. You can also elevate the flavor profile by incorporating saffron, a classic ingredient in Spanish cuisine, which will bring an aromatic richness to the dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this stew to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used, just ensure it's fully thawed before adding to the stew.

→ What can I substitute for fish stock?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken stock as a substitute.

→ Is this stew spicy?

The stew has a mild to moderate spice level due to the cayenne pepper, but you can adjust it to your taste.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, the stew can be made in advance and reheated. However, it's best to add the seafood fresh to maintain texture.