Seafood Delight with Creamy Dairy-Free Twist

Indulge in this creamy dairy-free seafood delight, combining fresh ingredients with a rich flavor. Perfect for quick meals!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 sweet onion
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 2 medium red potatoes
  • 1 cup frozen calamari rings
  • 1 cup frozen small scallops
  • 1 cup frozen clams
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 large tbsp dairy-free butter
  • 1 jar clam juice
  • 1 cup dairy-free milk
  • 16 oz dairy-free half and half

Instructions

  1. Chop up the onions and celery; set aside.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan, while the oil heats up, chop the potatoes and set aside.
  3. Once the oil is heated, add the onions, celery, salt, and pepper. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 7 minutes. Lower to medium-high heat.
  4. Add the potatoes, clams, scallops, and calamari rings. Stir together on low sauté for about 5 minutes.
  5. Add clam juice, dairy-free half and half, dairy-free milk, dairy-free butter, and bay leaf. Bring to a quick boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let cook/simmer until potatoes are soft. Add salt and pepper as needed.

Nutritional Information

Nutrition information not available.

Recipe Overview

Difficulty level: Easy
Equipment needed: Cutting board, chef s knife, sauté pan, measuring cups, and spoons.
Kitchen tips: Use fresh seafood for enhanced flavor; if using frozen, thaw properly before cooking.
Make-ahead options: Prepare the vegetable base in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Quality selection guide: Choose firm, brightly colored seafood without any off odors.
Storage tips: Store seafood in the coldest part of the refrigerator, preferably on ice, and consume within 1-2 days.
Substitutions: Replace calamari with shrimp or mussels; use almond milk instead of dairy-free milk if desired.
Measurement conversions: 1 large tablespoon = 15 ml; 1 cup = 240 ml.

Expert Techniques

Professional tips: Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning appropriately.
Common mistakes: Overcooking seafood can lead to a rubbery texture; avoid high heat when cooking.
Visual cues: Seafood should be opaque and flaky when cooked; potatoes should be fork-tender.
Equipment alternatives: A non-stick pan can work in place of a sauté pan to prevent sticking.

Serving & Presentation

Plating suggestions: Serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color.
Food pairing: Pair with crusty bread or a light green salad.
Portion guidelines: Serve 1 cup per person, adjust based on appetite.
Special occasions: Ideal for casual gatherings or holiday dinners.

Nutrition & Health

Detailed nutrition: Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids; low in saturated fat.
Health benefits: Supports heart health and may improve cognitive function.
Dietary considerations: Gluten-free and suitable for dairy-free diets.
Wellness tips: Incorporate a variety of vegetables to enhance nutrient intake.

Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion into individual containers for easy thawing.

Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of dairy-free milk if it thickens too much.

Ensure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating or freezing to prevent bacterial growth.

Variations & Adaptations

In summer, consider adding fresh corn or zucchini for a seasonal twist.

Easily made gluten-free by checking the clam juice label for gluten-free certification.

Double or halve the ingredients as needed while maintaining the same cooking times.

Using canned seafood instead of frozen can reduce costs without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting FAQ

If the sauce is too thick, it may require additional liquid. If too thin, simmer longer to reduce.

Add a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick while reheating.

For a richer flavor, sauté the seafood separately before adding it to the mixture.

Prep all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Community & Sharing

This recipe is fantastic for gatherings; consider serving in small cups for easy sharing.

This dish draws inspiration from coastal cuisines, showcasing the bounty of the sea.

A modern twist on traditional chowders, this dish embraces dairy-free alternatives while preserving creamy textures.

Great for batch cooking; make a large pot and freeze individual portions for quick meals later.

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