50+ Irresistible Italian Easter Fish Recipes for Your Holiday Table

Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, a delicious feast.

In Italian culinary tradition, fish plays a central role in the Easter meal, representing purity and renewal.

With the arrival of spring, fresh seafood takes center stage, offering a wide range of flavors and textures that are perfect for this special occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a full spread of seafood appetizers, a flavorful fish pasta, or a simple yet elegant grilled fish dish, Italian cuisine has something to satisfy every palate.

In this blog, we’ve curated over 50 Italian Easter fish recipes that will not only elevate your holiday table but also bring the authentic flavors of Italy into your home.

From crispy fried fish to savory seafood stews, these recipes will guide you through the various regional Italian traditions, giving you the opportunity to explore the diverse ways Italians celebrate Easter with fish.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, looking for a special dish to share, or simply craving the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean, these 50+ Italian Easter fish recipes are sure to inspire you.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and get ready to create memorable meals for this Easter!

50+ Irresistible Italian Easter Fish Recipes for Your Holiday Table

Italian Easter fish recipes are an integral part of celebrating the holiday, combining fresh seafood with the warmth of family traditions.

With over 50 recipes to explore, you’ll have endless options to create a feast that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Italy.

From seafood pastas and savory soups to grilled fish and decadent seafood casseroles, there’s a dish for every taste and every occasion.

These recipes offer a beautiful way to honor the Easter season with flavors that are as fresh and vibrant as the spring season itself.

So whether you prefer a light and simple dish or a more indulgent seafood creation, you’ll find the perfect Italian recipe to make your Easter meal truly special.

Easter Baked Sea Bass with Herbs

This traditional Italian recipe highlights the delicate flavor of sea bass, enhanced with a mix of fresh Mediterranean herbs and lemon. It’s a centerpiece dish that brings elegance and simplicity to your Easter celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 whole sea bass (about 1.5 pounds), cleaned and scaled
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the sea bass under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make shallow cuts on both sides of the fish.
3. Season the inside and outside of the fish with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity of the fish with lemon slices, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
5. Place the fish on a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine.
6. Arrange additional lemon slices on top of the fish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of the pan juices.

The baked sea bass captures the heart of Italian Easter with its fresh, herbaceous flavors. Its simplicity allows the natural taste of the fish to shine, making it a delightful and healthy choice for the festive table.

Italian Easter Salt Cod Stew

This rustic salt cod stew, or baccalà alla Livornese, is a comforting and flavorful dish traditionally enjoyed during Easter. Slow-cooked with tomatoes, olives, and capers, it’s a dish that evokes the coastal charm of Italy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound salt cod, soaked overnight and cut into pieces
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the tomatoes, olives, capers, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Add the white wine and cook for 2 more minutes.
4. Place the salt cod pieces into the sauce, spooning the sauce over the fish.
5. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, alongside crusty bread.

This salt cod stew offers a balance of savory and tangy flavors, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Italy. Its warming qualities and robust taste make it a standout addition to any Easter meal.

Easter Grilled Swordfish with Lemon and Capers

Grilled swordfish is a lighter yet celebratory choice for an Easter feast. This recipe combines the meaty texture of swordfish with a bright, zesty lemon-caper sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for springtime dining.

Ingredients

• 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush the swordfish steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the fish is cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by whisking together lemon juice, zest, capers, garlic, parsley, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
5. Remove the swordfish from the grill and drizzle with the lemon-caper sauce.
6. Serve immediately with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Grilled swordfish is a versatile and flavorful dish that perfectly complements the festive spirit of Easter. The lemon-caper sauce adds a bright and tangy element, making this recipe a fresh and satisfying highlight of the holiday meal.

Easter Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce

Stuffed calamari, or calamari ripieni, is a cherished Italian dish often served during Easter. Filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese, the squid is simmered in a rich tomato sauce, creating a flavorful and festive delicacy.

Ingredients

• 8 medium calamari, cleaned
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, garlic, olive oil, egg, salt, and pepper to form the stuffing.
2. Stuff each calamari tube with the mixture, securing the open ends with toothpicks.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and sear the stuffed calamari for 2–3 minutes per side.
4. Add the white wine and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and crusty bread on the side.

The tender calamari and flavorful stuffing absorb the richness of the tomato sauce, making this dish a festive and satisfying choice for an Italian Easter meal.

Easter Swordfish Involtini

Swordfish involtini, or stuffed swordfish rolls, are a Sicilian specialty that combines thin swordfish slices with a flavorful breadcrumb filling. This dish is light, aromatic, and perfect for Easter celebrations.

Ingredients

• 8 thin swordfish slices
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
• 2 tbsp raisins, soaked and drained
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, pine nuts, raisins, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the swordfish slices flat and spread a thin layer of the breadcrumb mixture over each. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
4. Place the rolls in the baking dish, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and sprinkle with lemon zest.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the rolls are cooked through and lightly golden.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and a side of roasted vegetables.

The tender swordfish rolls, infused with the sweetness of raisins and the nuttiness of pine nuts, are an elegant addition to an Easter menu, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Sicily.

Italian Easter Anchovy Pie (Torta di Acciughe)

This savory pie, featuring a blend of anchovies, ricotta, and herbs, is a unique addition to the Easter table. The flaky crust and rich filling are a celebration of traditional Italian coastal flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets puff pastry
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 8 anchovy fillets, chopped
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, chopped anchovies, eggs, parsley, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Line the pie dish with one puff pastry sheet and fill with the ricotta mixture.
4. Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry, sealing the edges. Make a few small slits on top for ventilation.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
6. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

This savory pie brings together creamy ricotta and the briny depth of anchovies, making it a flavorful centerpiece for an Easter gathering. Its rustic charm and bold taste embody the essence of Italian coastal cuisine.

Easter Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto

This creamy, comforting risotto combines succulent shrimp and tender asparagus, making it a perfect dish to celebrate Easter with fresh spring flavors. The dish’s rich texture and delicate seasoning elevate the meal to a festive level.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the skillet and stir until lightly toasted, about 1–2 minutes.
4. Pour in the white wine, stirring until absorbed.
5. Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.
6. While the risotto cooks, steam the asparagus until tender, about 4–5 minutes.
7. Once the risotto is cooked, stir in the shrimp, asparagus, Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve the risotto hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This shrimp and asparagus risotto is a creamy and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of Easter, blending the sweetness of shrimp with the earthiness of asparagus. The rich, velvety texture of the risotto makes it an unforgettable centerpiece for any spring celebration.

Easter Italian Frittura di Paranza (Fried Mixed Fish)

This traditional Italian fried mixed fish, or frittura di paranza, is a delightful seafood dish typically enjoyed during Easter. The light, crispy batter and variety of fresh fish create a dish that’s both savory and satisfying, perfect for a festive gathering.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound small squid, cleaned
• 1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound white fish fillets (like flounder or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup semolina flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat about 2 inches of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Dredge the squid, shrimp, and fish pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Carefully fry the fish in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove the fried fish from the oil and drain on paper towels.
5. Transfer the fried fish to a serving platter, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
6. Serve immediately, with a light squeeze of lemon juice.

This dish captures the essence of the Mediterranean coast with its light, crispy exterior and tender fish inside. The variety of seafood offers a delightful mix of flavors, making it an excellent choice for Easter festivities, adding a touch of Italian tradition to your celebration.

Easter Grilled Tuna with Olive Tapenade

This grilled tuna, topped with a tangy and savory olive tapenade, offers a refreshing and sophisticated take on seafood for Easter. The rich, meaty tuna paired with the briny, bold tapenade makes for a dish that’s both elegant and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed olives (green and black), pitted
• 2 tbsp capers
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the tuna steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the tuna steaks for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your tuna more well-done.
4. While the tuna is grilling, prepare the tapenade. In a food processor, pulse the olives, capers, garlic, parsley, and lemon juice until finely chopped and combined.
5. Once the tuna is cooked to your liking, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
6. Spoon the olive tapenade over the tuna steaks just before serving.

This grilled tuna with olive tapenade is a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings together fresh seafood with bold Mediterranean flavors. The combination of the smoky grilled tuna and the briny tapenade makes it a memorable and perfect choice for an Easter meal.

Easter Fried Fish with Lemon and Mint

A lighter, zesty option for Easter, this fried fish dish incorporates the freshness of lemon and mint to create a flavor-packed meal. The crispy fish, combined with bright citrus and fragrant mint, offers a refreshing twist on a traditional favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds white fish fillets (such as tilapia or sole)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornmeal, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge the fish fillets in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat them evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
4. Remove the fish from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped mint.
6. Drizzle the lemon-mint mixture over the fried fish and serve with lemon wedges.

This dish offers a crispy, light texture with a bright, fresh flavor profile. The lemon and mint elevate the simplicity of fried fish, making it an excellent choice for an Easter meal, especially when paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.

Easter Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives

This simple and flavorful baked cod recipe incorporates the classic Mediterranean ingredients of tomatoes, olives, and garlic. The fish is baked to perfection, absorbing the rich, tangy sauce for a meal that’s both wholesome and festive.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, olive oil, white wine, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cod fillets on top of the tomato mixture and spoon some of the sauce over the fish.
4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Baked cod with tomatoes and olives is a simple yet elegant dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your Easter table. The lightness of the cod is complemented by the tangy sauce, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Easter Fish Soup (Zuppa di Pesce)

This hearty Italian fish soup, or zuppa di pesce, is a rich, flavorful dish that combines a variety of fresh seafood in a tomato-based broth. The soup is perfect for an Easter feast, offering warmth and complexity in every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound squid, cleaned and sliced
• 1/2 pound white fish fillets (such as halibut or cod), cut into pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups fish stock
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, white wine, fish stock, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp, squid, and white fish to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
5. Serve the soup hot with slices of crusty bread for dipping.

This fish soup is a comforting and robust dish, full of the flavors of the sea. It’s perfect for an Easter meal, offering a satisfying and warming start to the feast. The variety of seafood creates a complex and rich broth, ideal for pairing with a glass of crisp white wine.

Easter Grilled Sardines with Garlic and Parsley

Grilled sardines are a classic Italian dish, especially popular in coastal regions during Easter. This simple yet flavorful preparation allows the natural richness of the sardines to shine, enhanced with the freshness of garlic and parsley.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle the sardines with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic and chopped parsley.
4. Place the sardines on the grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until they are golden and crispy.
5. Once grilled, sprinkle the garlic-parsley mixture over the sardines, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Grilled sardines are a true representation of Easter on the Italian coast, offering a smoky, flavorful taste that’s perfectly complemented by the freshness of garlic and parsley. This dish is light but packed with rich flavor, perfect for a springtime feast.

Easter Baked Salmon with Herbs and Citrus

This baked salmon recipe, flavored with fresh herbs and citrus, is an elegant yet simple option for an Easter celebration. The combination of lemon, orange, and herbs creates a fragrant, tangy finish that pairs beautifully with the rich, flaky salmon.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Scatter the garlic, dill, and parsley over the salmon, followed by the lemon and orange slices.
5. Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs and citrus slices.

This baked salmon with citrus and herbs is light, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it an excellent choice for Easter. The citrus brightens the rich taste of the salmon, creating a balance that feels both indulgent and refreshing for the spring season.

Easter Seafood Pasta (Pasta con Frutti di Mare)

A traditional Italian pasta dish that celebrates the bounty of the sea, pasta con frutti di mare is perfect for Easter, bringing together a variety of seafood in a flavorful, aromatic sauce that clings beautifully to your choice of pasta.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound spaghetti or linguine
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound mussels, cleaned
• 1/2 pound clams, cleaned
• 1/2 pound squid, sliced into rings
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking until fragrant.
3. Add the white wine and allow it to reduce for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes, then add the shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid. Cover the pan and cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the seafood is fully cooked and the mussels and clams have opened.
5. Toss the cooked pasta into the seafood mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pasta con frutti di mare is a perfect Easter dish, brimming with the flavors of the sea. The combination of shrimp, clams, mussels, and squid in a fresh tomato sauce makes this dish both comforting and luxurious, making it a fantastic choice for your holiday celebration.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!