Marascarda
A vibrant seafood boil featuring shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, and crab, served with flavorful bread for a delightful and communal dining experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the clam chowder to a rolling boil.
- Clean and devein the shrimp. Wash and debeard the mussels.
- Rinse the clams, scallops, and lobster tails.
- Add crabs, lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops to the boiling chowder.
- Cook until the seafood is done.
- Add the clams and mussels, and boil until they peek open.
- Set the seafood aside.
- Cut the bread into circles.
- Butter the bread circles and dip into the seafood chowder or serve alongside.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh seafood when possible. If you can't find fresh mussels or clams, canned options can work in a pinch, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Feel free to swap the seafood based on availability, such as using calamari or additional shrimp. To enhance the chowder, consider adding herbs like thyme or a splash of white wine for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Marascarda hot, garnished with fresh parsley for color. Pair it with slices of buttered Italian or French bread for dipping. A side of Neptune Salad adds freshness and contrast to the dish, and a crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling to maintain the texture of the seafood. Serve with fresh buttered bread or alongside a light salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marascarda contains roughly 467 calories, with 57g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (114% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Frozen seafood may release extra moisture, so you might need to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
What can I substitute for the clam chowder?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use a seafood broth or a homemade chowder made with coconut milk for a creamy texture. Just be mindful that the flavor will differ, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
The recipe doesn't include spicy ingredients, but if you find it too rich or intense, you can balance the flavors with a squeeze of lemon juice or add more broth for a milder taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference as well.
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).