Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare in a cream sauce
Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare in a cream sauce is a luxurious Italian pasta dish that combines a medley of fresh seafood—such as shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid—in a rich, creamy sauce, often with a hint of garlic and white wine. While traditional Frutti di Mare preparations are typically lighter and tomato-based, this cream-sauced variation is a popular modern twist found in many Italian-American and contemporary Italian restaurants. It's a celebratory dish that showcases the bounty of the sea in a comforting, indulgent way.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in carbohydrates from the pasta and fat from the cream sauce, with a good amount of protein from the seafood. Key nutrients include omega-3 fatty acids from the shellfish, calcium, and selenium. A typical serving can range from 700 to 900 calories, depending on the portion size and richness of the sauce.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbs | 65 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 550 mg |
| Phosphorus | 380 mg |
| Selenium | 45 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 3.5 mcg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg RAE |
Per 1 plate (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the 'cream sauce' version represents a fascinating evolution of Italian cuisine, blending traditional Mediterranean ingredients with a French-inspired technique (using cream) that became popular in globalized cooking. Nutritionally, it's a unique balance: the seafood provides lean protein and healthy fats, while the cream and pasta deliver a high-energy, comforting meal often associated with special occasions.
