Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino

Name: Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb clams, scrubbed; 1 lb fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups seafood stock; 1 cup white wine; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Dish Recipes

A flavorful Italian seafood stew that can be prepared ahead of time for a delicious meal any day of the week.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-06T17:23:53.658Z

This Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino combines fresh seafood with a rich tomato broth, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a medley of seafood
Rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs
Can be made ahead for easy entertaining

      

A Taste of the Sea

Cioppino is a classic Italian-American seafood stew that originated in San Francisco. It is a true celebration of the ocean's bounty, featuring a variety of fresh seafood simmered in a rich, tomato-based broth. The combination of shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures, making each bite a culinary adventure.

The beauty of Cioppino lies in its versatility; you can easily customize the seafood based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. This dish not only showcases the best of fresh seafood but also invites creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to experiment with different types of fish and shellfish to suit your preferences.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino is its convenience. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Simply follow the recipe steps up to the point of cooking the seafood, then refrigerate the base. When you're ready to serve, heat it up and add the seafood for a quick yet impressive meal.

This stew also benefits from the flavors melding together over time. Preparing it a day in advance allows the spices and ingredients to deepen and enhance the overall taste, resulting in a stew that’s even more delicious when served the next day. It’s a win-win for both flavor and ease of preparation!

Serving Suggestions

Cioppino is best served hot, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping. The broth is so flavorful that you won’t want to leave a drop behind! Consider offering a simple green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. A light vinaigrette can complement the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the dish.

For a complete dining experience, pair your Cioppino with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity and crispness of the wine will enhance the flavors of the seafood and cut through the richness of the broth, making for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

Seafood and Broth

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb clams, scrubbed
1 lb fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks
1/4 cup olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
4 cups seafood stock
1 cup white wine
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Add Tomatoes and Stock

Add the crushed tomatoes, seafood stock, and white wine to the pot. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Seafood

Add the shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish fillets to the pot. Cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the mussels and clams have opened and the shrimp are pink.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your flavorful cioppino with a side of toasted bread for dipping!

Tips for the Best Cioppino

To achieve the best flavor, always use high-quality seafood. Fresh or frozen seafood can work well, but be sure to check for any added preservatives in frozen varieties. Visit your local fish market or grocery store to find the freshest options available.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving. This brightens the dish and enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen, making for a great next-day meal. However, avoid freezing the Cioppino, as the texture of the seafood may suffer once thawed.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking the seafood. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if needed to thin out the stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cioppino ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and add the seafood just before serving for the best texture.

→ What types of seafood can I use?

Feel free to substitute with your favorite seafood or what's in season!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze cioppino?

Yes, but it's best to freeze the broth and add fresh seafood when you reheat it.