Shrimp broth is a traditional coastal dish
A seafood lover’s paradise, this Spicy Shrimp & Scallop Soup is hearty, cozy, and bursting with flavor! This recipe is filling and nutritious, with delicious scallops, soft shrimp, and a rich, flavorful broth flavored with tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices.
It’s packed with fresh ingredients, naturally low in carbohydrates, and meaty yet light. This soup strikes the ideal combination of heat, zest, and warmth, making it ideal for a hearty, protein-rich supper or for a comforting meal on a cold evening. For the perfect bowl of comfort, serve it with fresh herbs and a touch of lime.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
½ cup coconut milk (optional, for a creamier broth)
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ lb scallops
1 tbsp lime juice
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add Vegetables & Spices: Add bell peppers and tomatoes. Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne, cumin, and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes until veggies soften.
Simmer the Broth: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. If using coconut milk, stir it in now.
Cook the Seafood: Add shrimp and scallops to the soup and cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque.
Finish & Serve: Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot!
Tips & Variations:
Tips for the Best Flavor:
Use Fresh Seafood – Fresh shrimp and scallops enhance the flavor, but frozen works too—just thaw them first.
Don’t Overcook the Seafood – Shrimp and scallops cook quickly; remove them as soon as they turn opaque to keep them tender.
Enhance the Broth – Simmer seafood shells (from shrimp) in the broth for extra depth before straining.
Balance the Spice – If it’s too spicy, add a splash of coconut milk or an extra squeeze of lime to mellow it out.
Layer the Flavors – Let the spices toast in the pan for 30 seconds before adding the broth to enhance their aroma.
Variations to Try:
Make it Creamier – Stir in more coconut milk or a touch of heavy cream for a richer soup.
Tomato-Based Option – Add a can of fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper, more robust flavor.
Add More Veggies – Try adding carrots, zucchini, or baby spinach for extra nutrients.
Turn it into a Seafood Noodle Soup – Add cooked rice noodles or ramen for a heartier dish.
Mix Up the Seafood – Swap scallops for fish chunks (cod, tilapia) or add mussels/clams for variety.
Brighten it Up – Finish with fresh basil or Thai basil for a slightly different flavor profile.
Thicken it Up – Blend some cooked potatoes or white beans into the broth for a heartier texture.
Estimated Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~250 kcal Protein: ~30g Carbohydrates: ~12g Fiber: ~3g Sugars: ~6g Fats: ~8g Saturated Fat: ~3g (if using coconut milk) Cholesterol: ~120mg Sodium: ~700mg (varies based on broth)
In Conclusion:
The ideal fusion of robust tastes, succulent fish, and filling components. Every mouthful of this soup offers warmth and depth, making it a great choice for anybody seeking a light but filling dinner or a warm, comforting dish. It’s easy to modify to your preferences, high in protein, and fast to prepare. For a memorable supper, serve it with a side of crusty bread, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lime. Savor the delectable balance of fish and spice in this simple, healthful meal.