Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino

Name: Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 pound clams, cleaned; 1 pound mussels, cleaned; 1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups fish stock; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

This delicious Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino is a perfect seafood stew that brings the taste of the coast to your kitchen.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-06T19:24:53.727Z

This Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino is a blend of fresh seafood and a rich tomato broth that’s perfect for any occasion. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time.

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh seafood flavors
Perfectly spiced tomato broth that warms the soul
Easily made ahead for busy nights or gatherings

      

A Taste of the Sea

Cioppino is a traditional Italian-American seafood stew that's perfect for any occasion. Originating from the coastal regions of San Francisco, this dish showcases the bounty of the sea, featuring a variety of fresh seafood. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can use whatever seafood is available or in season, making it both a sustainable and delicious choice for seafood lovers.

The combination of shrimp, clams, mussels, and fish creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors. Each bite is filled with the essence of the ocean, and the tender seafood pairs beautifully with the rich, spiced tomato broth. This stew not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out.

Effortless Meal Prep

One of the standout features of the Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino is its ease of preparation. This stew can be made in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. By preparing the dish ahead of time, you can simply reheat it when you're ready to serve, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Additionally, the flavors of cioppino deepen and improve after sitting for a day, making it a fantastic option for leftovers. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when you're ready for round two, warm it on the stove for a comforting meal that tastes like it was just made.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your cioppino experience, consider pairing it with a crusty baguette or garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, ensuring that no delicious drop goes to waste. A fresh green salad on the side can also complement the richness of the stew, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal.

For beverage pairings, a glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, perfectly complements the seafood and enhances the overall dining experience. The acidity and brightness of these wines balance the flavors of the cioppino, making every sip a delight.

Ingredients

Seafood

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound clams, cleaned
1 pound mussels, cleaned
1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks

Broth and Aromatics

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups fish stock
1 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the Tomatoes and Stock

Add the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, white wine, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.

Incorporate the Seafood

Add the shrimp, clams, mussels, and fish to the pot. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes until the shellfish open and the shrimp are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently.

Enjoy your Cioppino!

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, it's important to store your cioppino properly to maintain its flavor and freshness. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or you can freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the broth.

When reheating, pay close attention to the seafood to avoid overcooking. Heat it slowly until warmed through, and serve with fresh parsley sprinkled on top to keep that vibrant flavor and color.

Variations to Try

While the classic cioppino recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with different types of seafood based on your preferences. Scallops, squid, or even lobster can make fantastic additions to this hearty stew. You can also adjust the level of spice by adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or including vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

For a lighter version, consider using vegetable broth instead of fish stock, and incorporate seasonal vegetables like kale or spinach. This way, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of cioppino that fits perfectly into a lighter diet while still being packed with flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works well. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.

→ What can I serve with cioppino?

Cioppino is traditionally served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the seafood with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and use vegetable stock instead.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.