Go Back
–+ servings
trader joe's cioppino copycat recipe

Trader Joe's Cioppino Recipe

Elaine Gordon
When the sun shines and the grill is sizzling, it’s hard not to crave dishes that scream summer—dishes that delight the senses and cause your taste buds to dance.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 156 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb thawed mixed seafood such as shrimp, calamari, and scallops; I used the frozen variety from Trader Joe's
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion or shallot
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 14 ½ oz can of chopped tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable or seafood broth instead of water, for deeper flavor
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herb blend
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • Small handful of fresh basil roughly torn
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp capers

Instructions
 

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop up the onions, mince your garlic, and be ready to toss those flavorful ingredients into the pot. This step is crucial. It sets the stage for seamless cooking.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion (or shallots) and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want these to become translucent and aromatic without browning them. Keep an eye on the pan!
  • Stir in the chopped tomatoes, followed by your vegetable (or seafood) broth. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
  • Now’s the time to add the dried Italian herbs along with the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. This base is where the magic begins!
  • Gently add the thawed seafood to the pot, taking care to distribute it evenly. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Seafood cooks quickly. At this point, it's crucial to avoid overcooking. You want them tender, not rubbery!
  • After 5-7 minutes, stir in the basil, lemon zest, and capers. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Allow everything to simmer for an additional minute to meld those flavors.
  • Ladle the cioppino into bowls and serve with crusty bread. You can garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your masterpiece!

Notes

  • Thaw Seafood Properly: Always thaw seafood in the fridge overnight. Rushing it under warm water can alter the texture.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, cut back on the crushed red pepper. Adjust it to your taste.
  • Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish: A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving brightens the dish.
  • Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini for a personal touch. They’ll cook nicely in the stew.
  • Make a Larger Batch: If you have guests, simply double the recipe. Cioppino keeps well and tastes incredible even the next day!

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 4gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.6gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 708mgFiber: 4gSugar: 22g
Keyword trader joe's cioppino recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!