When it comes to cooking seafood, there’s nothing quite like a special occasion to bring out the best flavors and presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply a Friday night, these 18 flavorful seafood recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.
From classic dishes like New England Clam Chowder and Blackened Mahi Mahi Tacos, to innovative creations like Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowl and Spicy Thai Coconut Shrimp, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and packed with flavor.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the diverse flavors and techniques that make seafood so delicious. So go ahead, get cooking, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these mouth-watering seafood recipes!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and garlic; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Lobster Bisque
Experience the rich flavors of the ocean with this creamy lobster bisque recipe, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add lobster meat, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the bisque has thickened slightly.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Cajun Salmon
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with this bold and flavorful Grilled Cajun Salmon recipe!
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and paprika.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the Cajun mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
5. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Spicy Thai Coconut Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this spicy coconut shrimp dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp; cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and cooked through (4-5 minutes per side).
4. Stir in coconut milk, water, fish sauce (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic seafood dish elevated by the brightness of lemon and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add the lemon juice to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Serve the scallops with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic New England Clam Chowder
Classic New England Clam Chowder Recipe
This hearty soup has been a staple of New England cuisine for generations, with its rich flavor and comforting warmth making it a perfect meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, milk, heavy cream, and paprika. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until clams are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy!
Blackened Mahi Mahi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans with these blackened mahi mahi tacos, featuring a spicy crust and tangy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 taco shells
– Slaw (see below for recipe)
– Sliced avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro, for garnish
Slaw Recipe:
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Place mahi mahi fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the blackening mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing a piece of blackened mahi mahi into each shell, topping with slaw and garnishing with avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Paella with Saffron Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this classic seafood paella dish, featuring tender seafood and aromatic saffron-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice (Calasparra or Bomba)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/2 pound chorizo, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shrimp, mussels, and chorizo; cook until the seafood is lightly browned.
4. Stir in the saffron-infused water and Spanish rice; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Remove from heat; let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Swordfish
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional grilled swordfish, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and garlic for a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place swordfish steaks in a shallow dish and brush with the lemon-herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill swordfish for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Cod
A flavorful and aromatic baked cod recipe that combines the pungency of garlic with the richness of parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and Parmesan cheese.
5. Sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Cajun Seasoning
Savor the flavors of Louisiana with this classic shrimp and grits recipe, elevated by the bold notes of Cajun seasoning. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add Cajun seasoning to the shrimp and stir to combine.
4. Serve shrimp over hot grits, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
A classic Lowcountry dish gets a flavorful twist with these succulent crab cakes, served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly into patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry crab cakes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer crab cakes to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce
Savor the simplicity of this elegant seafood dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water, then place them in a large steamer basket.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add white wine to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
4. Place the steamer basket with mussels over the saucepan.
5. Cover the pot and steam the mussels for 3-5 minutes, or until they open.
6. Remove the mussels from heat and stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve the mussels in their shells with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowl
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salmon, this Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowl is a flavorful and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Cooked white or brown rice and steamed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers) for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with cooked rice and steamed vegetables, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl
Elevate your lunch game with this refreshing and flavorful Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl recipe, featuring tender sashimi-grade tuna marinated in a spicy Korean-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving
– Sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
2. Add the tuna cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook white or brown rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the poke bowls by placing a scoop of cooked rice in the bottom, followed by the marinated tuna.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pickled ginger (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (marinating time), plus cooking time for rice.
Herb-Crusted Halibut with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and healthy recipe, featuring halibut’s firm texture and the sweetness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper. Coat each fillet with the herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear halibut for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet during the last 4 minutes of baking time.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Seafood Alfredo Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish loaded with succulent seafood and a hint of garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and patted dry
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add seafood and cook for 2-3 minutes or until opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta, seafood mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Citrus Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and succulent shrimp skewers, infused with the brightness of citrus and the warmth of the grill.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, and mustard.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh citrus wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 mouth-watering seafood recipes perfect for special occasions! From Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Creamy Lobster Bisque to Grilled Cajun Salmon and Seafood Paella, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a range of flavors and textures, from classic New England Clam Chowder to Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl and Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowl. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Leave a Reply