Name: Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Approx. 4 ounces linguine or spaghetti (56 grams; enough for 2 people); 8 scallops, thawed (if frozen); 8 shrimp, thawed and deveined; 8 mussels, cleaned with beards removed; 8 clams, cleaned; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1.5 cups marinara pasta sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes; Optional: juice of 1/2 a lemon; Optional: freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Print Recipe·4 from 9 reviews

If you adore the taste of the ocean combined with the rich, comforting flavors of a classic tomato sauce, then this Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly cooked linguine twirled together with succulent scallops, shrimp, tender mussels, and clams, all bathed in a vibrant, savory marinara sauce that sings with garlic and herbs. This dish is the kind of meal that brings people to the table with a smile, offering both a burst of freshness and hearty satisfaction, all in about 45 minutes. Whether it’s a special weekend dinner or a weekday treat, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various seafood pasta ingredients arranged neatly on a light wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is a bundle of uncooked spaghetti with a pale yellow color. Above the spaghetti, a white bowl holds a mix of clams and shiny black mussels. To the right of the bowl, fresh green parsley and a bright yellow lemon sit together. Two white bowls are stacked vertically on the right side: the top bowl contains raw grey shrimp, while the bottom bowl holds pale scallops. In the center, between the parsley and the seafood bowls, sits a dark bottle of olive oil with a purple label and cap, next to a jar of marinara sauce with a matching purple lid. At the bottom, a wedge of hard cheese rests directly on the cutting board. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right ingredients is the starting point for any memorable dish, and this Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe is no exception. Each component here is straightforward but plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the final dish truly shine.

4 ounces linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite long pasta to effortlessly twirl up every bite with seafood and sauce.
1 Tbsp olive oil: The foundation for sautéing your seafood, delivering richness and a lovely silky texture.
8 scallops, thawed: Tender and sweet, scallops add a luxurious seafood note with a beautiful sear.
8 shrimp, thawed and deveined: Juicy and speedy to cook, shrimp bring a mild briny flavor everyone loves.
1.5 cups marinara pasta sauce: The tomato-based heart of the dish, providing acidity and that classic Mediterranean taste.
8 mussels, cleaned: These add a slight chew and sea essence that elevate the marinara to something extraordinary.
8 clams, cleaned: Soaked in the sauce during cooking, clams infuse every bite with delicate ocean freshness.
1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped: Bright and herbaceous, parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh finish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all the elements.
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes: For those who want a little heat and a flavorful kick.
Optional: juice of 1/2 a lemon: A squeeze of brightness to lift the dish and enhance the seafood’s natural flavors.
Optional: freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano: A nutty, salty sprinkle that rounds out every forkful with indulgence.

How to Make Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning the pasta still has a slight bite to it. This texture is essential because it ensures your pasta will hold up well in the marinara sauce and seafood mixture without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the seafood and sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

In a large pan over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering. Carefully add the scallops and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You want them to develop a golden crust on the outside but remain tender and opaque inside. Once they’re perfectly seared, remove them from the pan and keep them resting on a clean plate. This step locks in their sweet flavor and creates a nice contrast to the saucy elements coming next.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Using the same pan, add a touch more olive oil if needed, then place your shrimp into the pan. Let them cook quickly, about 1 minute per side until they turn a vibrant pink and curl up. Like scallops, shrimp cook fast and should be removed promptly to avoid toughness. Add these to the plate with your scallops to rest before joining the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer Mussels and Clams in Marinara

Pour the marinara sauce directly into the pan, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the cleaned mussels and clams, then cover the pan tightly. Let the shellfish steam in the sauce for about 5 minutes or until all the shells open wide. This step is key because as the clams and mussels release their natural juices, they infuse the marinara with a deep, savory ocean essence. Be sure to discard any shells that remain closed; they’re not safe to eat.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Remove the pan from heat and gently fold in the cooked shrimp and scallops. Next, add the drained pasta and sprinkle in the finely chopped parsley. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the seafood is nestled throughout the sauce. This final toss brings all the flavors into perfect harmony and readies your dish for serving.

How to Serve Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe

A close-up view of a cooking pan filled with thick red tomato sauce, textured with small chunks and a glossy shine, covering the whole pan surface. Scattered within the sauce are several dark, shiny mussel shells with smooth curves and a few light-colored clam shells showing natural ridges and spots, partially submerged and held on top by the sauce. The pan itself is white with a smooth finish, and the background features a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice really brightens the soul of this dish, cutting through the richness while enhancing seafood flavors. Adding a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano introduces a nutty creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce. And if you fancy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of spice without overwhelming the delicate seafood.

Side Dishes

When it comes to side dishes, simplicity is golden. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty pasta perfectly. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes a great companion, ideal for mopping up any remaining sauce. For a touch of freshness, consider serving some steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccolini to round out the meal with color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can elevate this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls that make it easy to see all the beautiful seafood nestled within the sauce. Garnish each plate with a few whole parsley leaves and a lemon wedge on the side for a splash of green and zesty flair. For a special occasion, sprinkle a few edible flowers or microgreens on top to add an unexpected pop of elegance that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Try to eat the leftovers within a day for the best flavor and texture since seafood is most delicious when fresh.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for this seafood pasta because delicate shellfish can become rubbery, and the pasta texture may suffer. If you must freeze, separate the pasta from the sauce and seafood, freezing only the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Reheat gently and add fresh seafood or pasta when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the seafood, which can become tough or rubbery quickly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood in this Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is flexible. You can swap out scallops for calamari or use only shrimp if you prefer. The key is to adjust cooking times to ensure each seafood variety is cooked perfectly without overdoing it.

Is marinara sauce homemade or store-bought better for this recipe?

Both work wonderfully. A good-quality store-bought marinara saves time and still delivers great flavor. If you have the time, a homemade marinara adds a personal touch and can be tailored with extra garlic, fresh herbs, or spices to suit your taste.

How do I know when the mussels and clams are done?

The shells open up when they’re cooked through, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Discard any shellfish that remain closed after cooking, as that means they weren’t alive before cooking and should not be eaten.

Can I prepare this dish for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients to suit the number of guests, making sure to use a pan large enough to cook the seafood and sauce evenly. Cooking the shellfish in batches may be necessary for best results.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, simply substitute the linguine or spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your marinara sauce does not contain gluten ingredients. The seafood and other elements are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the combination of fresh seafood and savory tomato sauce coming together with perfect pasta. This Simple Mixed Seafood Tomato Marinara Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special without fuss, making it ideal for both casual dinners and celebratory meals. I can’t wait for you to try it and share your own little culinary moment of joy with friends and family. Trust me, once you taste those tender scallops and juicy shrimp soaked in bright marinara, this recipe will secure its spot in your dinner rotation.