Scungilli Recipe: Delicious Italian Seafood Pasta & Salad Ideas

Scungilli recipe is a classic Italian seafood delicacy, often enjoyed in salads, pasta dishes, and marinara-based recipes. This tender sea snail, also known as whelk, has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs.

For many Italian-American families, scungilli is a staple at holiday feasts, particularly during Christmas Eve’s Feast of the Seven Fishes. Whether served cold in a tangy seafood salad or simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this dish brings a taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

While fresh scungilli requires proper cleaning and tenderizing, canned scungilli offers a convenient alternative, making it easier to prepare without compromising on flavor. In this recipe, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from selecting the best scungilli to cooking it to perfection.

Key Benefits of Scungilli

Scungilli is more than just a delicious seafood ingredient—it’s packed with nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. Whether you’re a seafood lover or trying scungilli for the first time, here’s why this dish deserves a spot on your table.

1. High in Lean Protein

Scungilli is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to support muscle growth and overall health. A 3-ounce serving provides about 17 grams of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

2. Low in Fat and Calories

Unlike many other seafood options, scungilli is naturally low in fat and calories, making it an ideal ingredient for light and healthy meals. Whether served in a salad or a pasta dish, it delivers rich flavor without unnecessary fats.

3. Rich in Essential Minerals

Scungilli is packed with essential nutrients, including:
Iron – Helps transport oxygen in the blood and prevents fatigue.
Magnesium – Supports muscle function and energy production.
Zinc – Boosts the immune system and promotes skin health.
Selenium – A powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

4. Versatile and Easy to Prepare

Scungilli can be used in a variety of Italian seafood dishes, from refreshing cold salads to hearty pasta meals. It easily absorbs the flavors of garlic, lemon, olive oil, and herbs, making it a delicious and adaptable ingredient.

5. Traditional Italian Heritage

Scungilli holds a special place in Italian-American cuisine, especially during Feast of the Seven Fishes celebrations. Cooking this dish keeps the tradition alive and allows you to experience a true taste of authentic Italian seafood.

Ingredients

To create a delicious and authentic scungilli dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Depending on the recipe variation you choose—whether it’s a marinara-based pasta dish, a seafood salad, or a simple sauté—these ingredients will give you the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Scungilli Marinara Dish:

• 1 pound scungilli (fresh or canned)
  • If using canned, drain and rinse well. Fresh scungilli will need cleaning and tenderizing.
• 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Used for sautéing the garlic and infusing flavor into the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Adds rich flavor and aroma to the marinara sauce.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • Helps deglaze the pan and brings depth to the sauce.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • For a rich and flavorful marinara base.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Adds a slight heat, balancing the sweetness of the scungilli.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Provides an earthy, herbal undertone to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • A burst of freshness to garnish the dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite type)
  • Pasta is a classic pairing with scungilli in marinara sauce.

For the Scungilli Salad:

• 1 pound cooked scungilli
  • Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • For a fresh, rich base for the dressing.
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • Adds acidity to balance the richness of the scungilli.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Provides a zesty kick and brightens the dish.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Adds a mild, sweet crunch to the salad.
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • For a salty, Mediterranean touch.
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Adds color, texture, and sweetness.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • For a refreshing herbal note.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Brings all the ingredients together.

Optional Garnishes:

• Lemon wedges
  • To serve alongside for an extra burst of citrus.
• Grated Parmesan cheese
  • A sprinkle of cheese adds a rich, savory finishing touch to pasta dishes.

Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to bring this scungilli dish to life! Whether you’re making a savory scungilli marinara pasta or a light scungilli salad, follow these easy steps to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal.

Scungilli Marinara Pasta Recipe

1. Prepare the scungilli
   • If using canned scungilli, drain and rinse it thoroughly to remove excess brine. Slice it into bite-sized pieces.
   • If using fresh scungilli, you’ll need to clean and tenderize it first. Start by boiling the scungilli in salted water for about 30 minutes, or until tender. Once done, cut it into slices.
2. Cook the pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use. Set the cooked pasta aside.
3. Make the marinara sauce
   • In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
   • Pour in the white wine and let it cook down for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the red pepper flakes, oregano, and salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes to develop rich flavors.
4. Add the scungilli
   • Once the marinara sauce has simmered, gently stir in the prepared scungilli. Let it cook in the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine the pasta and sauce
   • Add the cooked pasta to the marinara sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
   • Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for garnish, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serve
   • Serve the scungilli marinara pasta immediately, topped with optional grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for added zest.

Scungilli Seafood Salad Recipe

1. Prepare the scungilli
   • If using canned scungilli, drain, rinse, and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
   • If using cooked fresh scungilli, slice it into small, manageable pieces.
2. Prepare the salad ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh basil.
3. Make the dressing
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Toss the salad
   • Add the prepared scungilli to the salad mixture. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently until everything is coated.
5. Chill and serve
   • Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marry. When ready to serve, give it a quick toss and garnish with extra fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Pro Tips and Variations

Whether you’re making scungilli marinara pasta or a seafood salad, these pro tips and variations will help you perfect your dish and add your own twist. With a few simple adjustments, you can elevate the flavor and customize the recipe to suit your tastes.

Pro Tips for Cooking Scungilli

1. Tenderize Fresh Scungilli Properly
   • Fresh scungilli can sometimes be tough if not prepared correctly. To tenderize it, simmer it in boiling salted water for 30-40 minutes or until it becomes soft. This step is essential if you’re using fresh scungilli, as it ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Enhance the Marinara Flavor
   • To deepen the flavor of your marinara sauce, consider adding anchovies or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Both ingredients provide a rich umami taste that complements the sweetness of the scungilli.
3. Don’t Overcook the Scungilli
   • Whether you’re adding it to a pasta sauce or a salad, scungilli should be cooked just enough to infuse it with the flavors of the dish. Overcooking can make it tough and chewy, so it’s important to simmer or sauté it gently.
4. Use High-Quality Olive Oil
   • Since olive oil is a key component in both the marinara sauce and salad dressing, choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The oil helps bring out the natural sweetness of the scungilli and adds richness to the dish.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Scungilli Marinara
   • If you love a little heat, try adding chili flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to your marinara sauce. The spiciness will balance the natural sweetness of the scungilli and give the dish an exciting kick.
2. Scungilli with Garlic Butter
   • For a more indulgent dish, skip the marinara sauce and cook your scungilli in garlic butter. Simply sauté the scungilli in butter, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a rich and flavorful alternative. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
3. Add Veggies to the Salad
   • For a heartier salad, toss in some cucumber slices, red bell peppers, or avocado. These veggies will add color, crunch, and freshness to your dish, making it even more satisfying.
4. Make It a Scungilli Pasta Salad
   • If you prefer a cold dish, turn your scungilli salad into a pasta salad by adding cooked pasta. This variation makes for a great summer meal, as it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and serve chilled.
5. Try Different Sauces
   • While marinara is a classic, scungilli also pairs beautifully with pesto, alfredo sauce, or even a lemon butter sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different sauce combinations to create your own signature scungilli dish.
6. Grilled Scungilli
   • For a smoky twist, try grilling your scungilli instead of boiling or sautéing it. Grill the scungilli on skewers with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a delicious charred flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Scungilli is a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light appetizer, a main course, or as part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will help you present the dish in the best way possible.

1. Scungilli Marinara Pasta – Perfect for a Hearty Meal

• Serve with garlic bread: A slice of crusty garlic bread on the side is a must for soaking up the rich marinara sauce. The combination of pasta, scungilli, and garlic bread is a classic Italian comfort food.
• Pair with a light salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach dressed in a light balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the marinara sauce.
• Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese: If you love cheese, sprinkle Parmesan or Pecorino Romano over the pasta for an added layer of savory flavor.
• Serve with white wine: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with scungilli pasta, enhancing the flavors of the seafood and the tanginess of the tomato sauce.

2. Scungilli Salad – Ideal for a Light, Refreshing Meal

• Serve as a starter: A scungilli salad makes an excellent appetizer before a larger meal. Its light, fresh flavors will wake up your palate and prepare you for the courses to come.
• Add a side of crusty bread: For a more filling meal, pair your scungilli salad with a side of crusty Italian bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the flavorful olive oil dressing that coats the salad.
• Serve with lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brightens the salad, adding a zesty kick that enhances the seafood’s natural flavor.
• Pair with chilled white wine or rosé: A chilled rosé or crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements the refreshing nature of the salad, making it a perfect choice for a summer meal or seafood feast.

3. Scungilli as Part of a Seafood Feast

• Incorporate into a seafood platter: Scungilli is an ideal addition to a seafood platter or buffet-style meal. Pair it with other seafood options like shrimp cocktail, clams, mussels, and grilled fish for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces: Consider offering several dipping sauces like lemon garlic butter, spicy marinara, or a tangy herb-infused olive oil for guests to choose from. These sauces will enhance the flavor of the scungilli and provide variety.
• Serve with roasted vegetables: If you want to round out the meal, serve scungilli with a side of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, lightly seasoned with olive oil and herbs. This brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while complementing the seafood.

4. Make It a Meal Prep Option

• Pack it for lunch: Both the scungilli marinara pasta and scungilli salad make excellent choices for meal prep. They can be easily stored in airtight containers and enjoyed throughout the week.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature: If you prefer cold dishes, the scungilli seafood salad can be served chilled, making it a great option for picnics or summer lunches. Alternatively, the pasta dish can be enjoyed at room temperature if you’re packing it for later.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, store the scungilli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can stay fresh for 2-3 days, while the pasta will last 3-4 days.

FAQS

Conclusion

Scungilli is a unique and flavorful seafood that can elevate any meal with its delicate taste and versatility. Whether you’re making a comforting scungilli marinara pasta, a refreshing seafood salad, or experimenting with new variations, this ingredient offers endless possibilities for delicious dishes.

The scungilli recipe you’ve just learned is simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. By following the steps and tips outlined here, you’ll create a dish that showcases the natural sweetness of scungilli while complementing it with rich sauces, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs.

Remember, scungilli isn’t just about its taste – it’s about creating an experience around it. From cooking tips and serving suggestions to variations and customization, you can tailor this recipe to suit your style and preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a touch of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine into your kitchen, delighting your friends and family with an unforgettable meal.

So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, scungilli is sure to impress. Grab your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy this amazing seafood dish today!

Scungilli Recipe

Scungilli is a tasty Italian seafood dish made with sea snails, garlic, olive oil, and white wine. You can serve it warm with pasta or cold as a salad. This simple recipe is full of flavor and ready in just 25 minutes!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound scungilli fresh or canned
• 1 lb scungilli cooked & sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes if making scungilli marinara
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 lb linguine pasta optional, for pasta version

Instructions

 

• 1️⃣ Prepare the Scungilli: If using fresh scungilli, clean and boil for 10-15 minutes until tender. If using canned scungilli, drain and rinse.
• 2️⃣ Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
• 3️⃣ Deglaze with Wine: Pour in white wine and let it reduce by half (about 2 minutes).
• 4️⃣ Add Scungilli: Stir in sliced scungilli, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 3-5 minutes.
• 5️⃣ For Marinara Version: Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
• 6️⃣ Finish & Serve: Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Serve warm over pasta or as a seafood salad.

Notes

• Use fresh or canned scungilli (canned is easier).
• Don’t overcook—scungilli gets chewy if cooked too long.
• Serve hot with pasta or cold as a salad.
• Add capers, olives, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Pairs well with white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Keyword Easy Recipes, Italian cuisine, Seafood, summer dish,