Italy’s coastal regions boast some of the most celebrated seafood dishes, and Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare is a shining example from the Amalfi Coast and Campania. This dish features hand-cut, thick pasta called scialatielli paired with a vibrant medley of fresh seafood, capturing the flavors of the sea and the sun-drenched coastline.


What Are Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare?

Scialatielli are a type of rustic, thick, and slightly chewy pasta made from wheat flour, water, and sometimes eggs, traditionally crafted by hand. Their hearty texture makes them ideal for holding rich, flavorful sauces, especially those loaded with seafood.

Frutti di Mare translates to “fruits of the sea,” referring to a mix of fresh shellfish and fish such as clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari, and sometimes other shellfish, cooked in a savory tomato or white wine sauce.

Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare is celebrated for its fresh, briny flavors, aromatic herbs, and the satisfying bite of the pasta combined with the sweetness of seafood.


Ingredients and Preparation

Main ingredients include:

Fresh or dried scialatielli pasta
Assorted seafood (clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari, scallops)
Garlic
Cherry tomatoes or crushed San Marzano tomatoes (optional)
White wine
Olive oil
Fresh parsley
Red chili flakes (optional)
Lemon juice (optional)
Salt and pepper


Preparation steps:

Prepare the seafood: Clean shellfish thoroughly. If using clams and mussels, scrub shells; devein shrimp; clean calamari tubes and tentacles.

Cook the pasta: Boil scialatielli in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté aromatics: In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chili flakes if desired.

Cook the seafood: Add the shellfish and shrimp to the pan, pour in white wine, cover, and cook until shells open and seafood is tender. For tomato sauce, add cherry tomatoes or crushed tomatoes and simmer briefly.

Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the seafood sauce, mixing gently. Finish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serve: Plate hot, garnished with extra parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.


Cultural Significance and Traditions

Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare embodies the essence of the Amalfi Coast’s maritime tradition. The dish highlights the region’s bounty of fresh seafood, local herbs, and the lively, sun-soaked atmosphere of the Mediterranean.

Historically, the pasta was crafted by local fishermen and villagers, using simple ingredients to create a dish that celebrates the sea’s gifts. It’s often enjoyed during seaside festivals or family gatherings, embodying the convivial spirit of southern Italy.


Why Try Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare?

Fresh and Flavorful: A true taste of the sea with vibrant, briny flavors.

Authentic Regional Dish: A signature from the Amalfi Coast and Campania, showcasing local ingredients.

Nutritious and Light: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins from seafood.

Impressive yet Simple: Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious everyday meal.


Conclusion

Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare is a celebration of coastal Italy’s culinary tradition, blending hearty handmade pasta with the freshest seafood and aromatic herbs. Its bold flavors and seaside charm make it a standout dish for seafood lovers and those eager to experience the authentic taste of Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

Buon appetito! or as Italians say, Bona apetit! — enjoy the exquisite flavors of the sea with every delicious bite of this classic seafood pasta.