Italian Fish Stew
A flavorful Italian fish stew featuring tender whitefish, tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal that pairs well with crusty bread and a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a 2-quart pot.
- Add sliced onions, minced green pepper, sliced celery, crushed garlic, basil, thyme, clove, and pepper.
- Stir-fry on medium heat for 3 minutes until the onion softens.
- Add tomato juice and chopped stewed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Put fish fillets in a layer on top of the tomato mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the fish chunks in a layer on top.
- Cover and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the fish chunks again, cover, and remove from heat.
- Let stand for 5 minutes longer before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the tomato mixture before adding the fish. If you don't have fresh basil or thyme, dried herbs work well too; just reduce the amounts slightly. You can also substitute the fish with shrimp or other seafood for variation. For a heartier stew, add diced potatoes or other vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Fish Stew with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice or pasta, such as fettuccine, for a filling meal. A simple green salad pairs nicely to balance the flavors. For a delightful twist, try it alongside Easy Shrimp And Pasta for a seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can overcook the fish and diminish the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Fish Stew contains roughly 122 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
If using frozen fish fillets, thaw them completely beforehand for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure the fish is cooked through.
What type of fish works best for this stew?
Haddock, cod, or whitefish are ideal for their firm texture and mild flavor. You can also use shrimp or scallops, but remember to adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
You can make the stew ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. For best texture, add the fish just before serving and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).