Best Easy Vermicelli alla Pescatora Recipe

Thin pasta strands loaded with mixed seafood in a vibrant tomato sauce. This high protein mediterranean dish is fresh, festive, and a beloved family recipe along Italy's coastlines.

Cook 30 min Difficulty NORMAL 410 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • vermicelli pasta 12 oz
  • mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels, clams) 16 oz
  • cherry tomatoes 2 cups
  • garlic 3 cloves
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • fresh parsley 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • crushed red pepper 0.5 tsp
  • sea salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
  • white wine 0.5 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 54 g 53%
Protein 26 g 25%
Fat 7 g 15%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the vermicelli pasta. Cook until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and crushed red pepper, stir gently until fragrant but not browned.

  3. 3

    Increase heat to medium-high. Add cherry tomatoes and a pinch of sea salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and sauce thickens, about 6 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add mixed seafood and pour in the white wine. Cover and simmer for 4–5 minutes, just until the seafood turns opaque; avoid overcooking.

  5. 5

    Add cooked vermicelli to the skillet, toss well with seafood sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for silkiness. Finish with chopped parsley, black pepper, and the final tbsp of olive oil. Serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The mixed seafood—shrimp, squid, mussels, and clams—are the star ingredients, delivering briny flavor and high protein that define Vermicelli alla Pescatora’s identity. The cherry tomato sauce enhances the freshness and overall taste.
Q. What is the most critical cooking step for perfect seafood pasta?
Timing the addition of seafood is crucial. After sautéing garlic and simmering the tomato sauce, add seafood and white wine, then cook just until the seafood is opaque (about 4–5 minutes). Overcooking can cause rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on heat and timing.
Q. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming soggy?
Drain the vermicelli just shy of full tenderness and toss immediately with the seafood sauce. Only add reserved pasta water if needed, and avoid simmering it further to maintain a springy bite and prevent mushiness.
Q. How many calories and what is the protein-to-carb ratio per serving?
Each serving contains about 410 kcal. Nutritionally, each portion provides 54g carbohydrates (53%), 26g protein (25%), and 7g fat (15%). The high protein from seafood makes this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
AI 채팅 아이콘