Rustic Seafood Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines clams, shrimp, and cod in a smoky, creamy broth. Infused with smoked paprika, tomatoes, and white wine, this comforting soup is perfect for a cozy evening meal. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Seafood:
- 2.5 lbs Littleneck clams
- 1 lb shrimp (thawed and deveined)
- 12 oz Alaska cod (thawed, cut into bite-sized chunks)
Broth:
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced red onion
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 4 cups chicken stock (or seafood stock)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- Coarse salt, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Clams:
- Soak the clams in cold salted water for at least 1 hour to remove grit and sand.
- Rinse under running water and scrub lightly with a kitchen brush. Discard any clams that do not close during cleaning.
Sauté Aromatics and Steam Clams:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until onions begin to brown.
- Add clams and white wine. Cover and steam for 8–10 minutes, or until clams open. Discard any unopened clams.
- Remove clams from the pot and set aside.
Prepare the Broth:
- Add chicken stock, cream, smoked paprika, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
Cook Seafood:
- Add shrimp and cod to the simmering broth. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until seafood is fully cooked.
Finish and Serve:
- Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with coarse salt.
- Return the clams to the pot and give the soup a gentle stir.
- Serve hot with crusty bread and a glass of white wine.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. based on 4-6 servings)
Calories: Estimated at ~300-400 kcal per serving (varies with ingredients used)
Protein: High (seafood-based)
Fat: Includes healthy fats from olive oil and cream
Carbohydrates: Moderate, mainly from tomatoes and onion
Fiber: Low to moderate

Enjoy the rich and smoky flavors of this Rustic Seafood Soup, a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests!

A Celebration of Coastal Flavors

Seafood soups have long been a staple in coastal cuisines around the world. Rustic Seafood Soup draws inspiration from a variety of traditions, blending elements of Mediterranean, New England, and Southern European cooking to create a truly unique dish. Its robust flavor profile is rooted in the simplicity of fresh seafood and pantry staples, making it both accessible and satisfying. The use of smoked paprika and white wine elevates the dish, adding depth and complexity while maintaining its rustic charm.

Why Rustic Seafood Soup Stands Out

This recipe shines for its ability to deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures with minimal effort:

Fresh Seafood at Its Best: Littleneck clams, shrimp, and cod bring their unique flavors and textures, creating a layered and dynamic eating experience.
A Smoky, Creamy Broth: The combination of smoked paprika, cream, and tomatoes forms a luscious, smoky base that perfectly complements the seafood.
Versatile and Adaptable: This soup can be easily tailored to your taste preferences or available ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
A Complete Meal: Served with crusty bread or a side salad, Rustic Seafood Soup becomes a wholesome, hearty meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites.

A Symphony of Textures and Flavors

Rustic Seafood Soup balances a medley of textures and flavors to create a truly satisfying dish:

Tender Clams: The briny, slightly chewy clams provide a taste of the ocean in every bite.
Succulent Shrimp: Plump and juicy, shrimp add a sweet and savory dimension to the soup.
Flaky Cod: The delicate, flaky texture of cod balances the robustness of the other seafood.
Rich Broth: Creamy and smoky, the broth ties all the elements together, offering a comforting base that’s full of flavor.
Aromatic Vegetables: Diced onions, garlic, and parsley add freshness and depth, enhancing the overall complexity of the soup.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Rustic Seafood Soup is versatile enough to suit a variety of occasions:

Cozy Family Dinners: This warm, hearty soup is perfect for bringing the family together on chilly evenings.
Elegant Dinner Parties: Its sophisticated flavors and stunning presentation make it an ideal starter or main course for entertaining.
Casual Gatherings: Serve it with crusty bread and a bottle of white wine for a relaxed, coastal-inspired meal with friends.
Special Occasions: Rustic Seafood Soup’s indulgent flavors make it a great choice for holidays, anniversaries, or celebrations.

Nutritional Highlights

Seafood is a fantastic source of lean protein and essential nutrients, and this soup is no exception:

Protein-Packed: The shrimp, clams, and cod provide high-quality protein, supporting muscle health and repair.
Rich in Omega-3s: The seafood in this dish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart and brain health.
Low in Carbs: With minimal carbohydrates, this soup is suitable for low-carb diets when paired with appropriate sides.
Vitamin-Rich: The tomatoes, onions, and parsley contribute vitamins A, C, and K, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.
Moderate Calories: At approximately 300–400 calories per serving, this soup is a balanced choice for a satisfying meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Rustic Seafood Soup

Achieving the best results with this recipe is easy if you follow these tips:

Choose Fresh Seafood: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen seafood for the best flavor and texture. Fresh clams should be tightly closed; discard any that remain open after cooking.
Control the Heat: Avoid overcooking the seafood to ensure it remains tender and flavorful. Add the shrimp and cod toward the end of the cooking process.
Build Layers of Flavor: Sauté the onions and garlic until golden to develop a rich, aromatic base for the broth.
Deglaze with White Wine: Use a dry white wine to deglaze the pan after sautéing the aromatics, enhancing the soup with a touch of acidity and depth.
Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and paprika levels to suit your preferences, keeping in mind the natural saltiness of the seafood.

Customizations and Variations

Rustic Seafood Soup is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors:

Alternative Seafood: Swap cod for haddock, sea bass, or salmon. Add mussels or scallops for an extra indulgent touch.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
Herbaceous Twist: Garnish with fresh basil, dill, or thyme instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Tomato-Free Option: For a creamier version, omit the tomatoes and increase the amount of cream slightly.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and wine are gluten-free and serve with gluten-free bread or crackers.

Why It’s a Crowd Favorite

Rustic Seafood Soup combines the best elements of comfort food and gourmet cuisine. Its hearty, smoky broth and tender seafood make it a dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. The elegant presentation, complete with vibrant parsley and crusty bread, ensures it’s a standout at any table. Whether you’re introducing someone to seafood or treating seasoned foodies, this soup is guaranteed to impress.

Conclusion

Rustic Seafood Soup is a dish that embodies warmth, flavor, and tradition. Its rich, smoky broth and tender seafood deliver a comforting and satisfying meal, while its elegant presentation makes it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, a casual gathering, or a cozy family meal, this soup is sure to leave a lasting impression. Pair it with crusty bread and a glass of wine, and you have a meal that captures the essence of the sea in every bite. Dive into this recipe and let it become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire!