20 Irresistible Seafood Recipes That’ll Make A Splash

Dive into the world of seafood with these 20 irresistible recipes that promise to make a splash at any dining table. From the rich and creamy textures of classic chowders to the zesty and spicy profiles of international favorites, this collection brings together a variety of seafood dishes that cater to every palate. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a curious newcomer, each recipe offers unique flavors and cooking techniques that make seafood both accessible and exciting.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
© Damn Delicious

Bring the taste of the sea to your table with this simple yet luxurious garlic butter shrimp scampi. The shrimp, perfectly cooked and tender, swim in a pool of golden garlic butter. Fresh lemon juice adds a zing, making each bite a perfect balance of richness and citrus freshness.

Imagine twirling this garlicky delight with pasta or savoring it over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish whispers of summer evenings by the coast. Quick to prepare, it fits into any busy schedule without sacrificing flavor or elegance. A weeknight dinner that’s effortlessly impressive.

2. Blackened Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Blackened Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
© Host The Toast

Spice up your taco night with blackened fish tacos, a lively combination of textures and flavors. The fish, crispy with a smoky, spicy crust, is paired with a refreshing cabbage slaw. This crunchy counterpart tames the heat and adds a refreshing bite.

Each taco is a little fiesta of flavor, topped with creamy avocado slices and a squeeze of lime. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a regular day, these tacos bring joy and satisfaction. Easy to make, they’re a fantastic way to introduce seafood into your weekly rotation. A true crowd-pleaser.

3. Creamy Tuscan Salmon

Creamy Tuscan Salmon
© The Chunky Chef

Transform your salmon dinner with a creamy Tuscan twist. Imagine flaky salmon fillets bathed in a garlic parmesan sauce, bubbling with creaminess. Wilted spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add depth and vibrant color to this dish.

It feels like a restaurant-style meal without the fuss. The richness of the sauce is perfectly cut by the subtle sweetness of the tomatoes. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

4. Classic New England Clam Chowder

Classic New England Clam Chowder
© Allrecipes

Warm up with a bowl of classic New England clam chowder, where every spoonful is a comforting embrace. The mix of tender clams and hearty potatoes in a luscious, creamy broth is a symphony of flavors.

This chowder is a staple, evoking images of coastal New England. Best enjoyed with a sprinkle of crispy oyster crackers, it offers a taste of tradition and nostalgia. Whether on a chilly day or when longing for the coast, this chowder offers solace and delight in every bite. A timeless classic that never loses its charm.

5. Grilled Lobster Tails with Herb Butter

Grilled Lobster Tails with Herb Butter
© Napoleon

For an elegant dining experience, grilled lobster tails with herb butter are the way to go. The lobster, succulent and slightly smoky from the grill, pairs perfectly with the rich, aromatic herb butter.

Serve with a splash of lemon juice, and you have a dish that’s both simple and spectacular. Whether for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself, this recipe promises to impress. It’s a dining experience that’s grand yet achievable, bringing the luxury of a seafood restaurant to your home.

6. Baked Cod with Lemon and Capers

Baked Cod with Lemon and Capers
© The Healthy Foodie

Light and flavorful, baked cod with lemon and capers is a dish that celebrates simplicity. The cod, flaky and tender, is enhanced by the tangy pop of capers and the brightness of lemon.

It’s a dish that invites those hesitant about seafood to give it a try. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal that satisfies without being heavy. A delightful introduction to the world of fish.

7. Spicy Cajun Shrimp & Grits

Spicy Cajun Shrimp & Grits
© Dishes With Dad

Bring the flavors of the South to your table with spicy Cajun shrimp & grits. The shrimp, seasoned with bold Cajun spices, rest atop a mound of creamy, buttery grits. It’s a dish that speaks of comfort and warmth.

Every bite is a dance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors that linger on the palate. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this dish captures the heart of Southern cooking. Enjoy it with a glass of cold iced tea and let it transport you to a Southern porch swing. Unforgettable and utterly satisfying.

8. Crispy Fish Sandwich with Tartar Sauce

Crispy Fish Sandwich with Tartar Sauce
© Spain on a Fork

Revolutionize your lunch with a crispy fish sandwich that rivals any fast-food favorite. The fish fillet, golden and crunchy, contrasts beautifully with the soft bun and crisp lettuce.

Topped with tangy tartar sauce, every bite offers a burst of flavor and texture. It’s a meal that satisfies cravings while being easy to prepare at home. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, this sandwich proves that homemade can be as delightful as dining out. A new classic in your culinary repertoire.

9. Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter
© That Oven Feelin

Indulge in luxury with seared scallops drizzled in garlic lemon butter. The scallops, with their golden-brown crust and tender interior, are a culinary delight.

The butter sauce, infused with garlic and lemon, elevates them to a level of elegance often found in fine dining. Serve them as an appetizer or main course, and let their delicate flavor enthrall your taste buds. They’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. An experience in every bite, showcasing the beauty of seafood.

10. Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice
© Allrecipes

For a quick and satisfying meal, shrimp fried rice is the answer. This dish combines succulent shrimp with colorful vegetables and aromatic rice. It’s a one-pan wonder that delights with every bite.

The blend of soy sauce and sesame oil adds depth, making it a favorite for busy weeknights. Easy to customize with your preferred veggies, it’s versatile and crowd-pleasing. Perfect for using up leftovers or when craving something comforting and flavorful. A staple in any kitchen that never disappoints.

11. Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowls

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowls
© Averie Cooks

Experience the harmony of flavors with teriyaki glazed salmon bowls. The salmon, glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, sits atop fluffy rice surrounded by vibrant vegetables.

Each bite is a delightful balance of tastes and textures, from the tender fish to the crunch of fresh veggies. Ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner, these bowls offer a nutritious and satisfying meal. Customize with your favorite toppings for a personal touch. A delicious way to enjoy salmon any day of the week.

12. Mediterranean Baked Halibut

Mediterranean Baked Halibut
© KnowSeafood

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with baked halibut, adorned with tomatoes, olives, and herbs. This dish bursts with bright, fresh flavors that evoke sunny coastlines.

The halibut, tender and flaky, absorbs the aromatic essence of the toppings. Perfect for dinner parties or a relaxing evening meal, it pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine. Simple to prepare yet sophisticated in presentation, it’s a delightful addition to any seafood lover’s menu. A taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

13. Creamy Seafood Pasta with White Wine Sauce

Creamy Seafood Pasta with White Wine Sauce
© Mel’s Kitchen Cafe

Indulge in creamy seafood pasta, where shrimp, scallops, and crab unite in a symphony of flavors. The white wine sauce, silky and aromatic, wraps each strand of pasta in luxury.

It’s a dish that feels like dining at a seaside Italian trattoria. Perfect for date night or a special family dinner, it brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. The richness of the seafood pairs harmoniously with the delicate sauce, creating a memorable culinary experience. A tribute to the bounties of the sea.

14. Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce

Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
© Well Seasoned Studio

Bring a taste of the tropics to your table with crispy coconut shrimp. Coated in shredded coconut, these shrimp are fried to golden perfection, offering a delightful crunch.

Paired with sweet chili sauce, each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory. They’re a hit at parties, standing out as a flavorful appetizer. Easy to make, they transport you to sunny beaches and tropical breezes. A taste of paradise that can be enjoyed anytime, bringing smiles and satisfaction.

15. Fish Chowder with Corn and Potatoes

Fish Chowder with Corn and Potatoes
© Food & Wine

Hearty and comforting, fish chowder with corn and potatoes is a meal that warms from the inside out. The creamy broth, rich with flavors, cradles chunks of fish, sweet corn, and tender potatoes.

This chowder is like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when seeking comfort in a meal. It’s a dish that celebrates the flavor of the sea without being overpowering. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. A nourishing delight that evokes cozy evenings by the fire.

16. Baja Shrimp Bowls

Baja Shrimp Bowls
© Love Your Body Well

Let the vibrant flavors of Baja shrimp bowls whisk you away to sunny shores. These bowls, filled with spicy shrimp, rice, black beans, and corn salsa, are a celebration of colors and tastes.

Each component adds a layer of flavor and texture, from the creamy avocado to the zesty lime. Perfect for a casual dinner, they offer a burst of summer in every bite. Customizable to personal taste, they prove that healthy eating can be delicious and exciting. A bowlful of sunshine and satisfaction.

17. Lemon Dill Baked Salmon

Lemon Dill Baked Salmon
© Dishes With Dad

Simplicity shines with lemon dill baked salmon, a dish that lets the fish take center stage. The salmon, tender and flaky, is enhanced by the subtle freshness of dill and lemon.

It’s a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Serve it with seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal that balances flavor and nutrition. A timeless recipe that celebrates the purity of ingredients, bringing joy to every dining occasion.

18. Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce

Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
© Girl With The Iron Cast

Delight in the rich flavors of crab cakes, golden and crisp on the outside, soft and succulent inside. Packed with real crab meat, these cakes are a testament to seafood excellence.

Paired with a zesty remoulade sauce, they become a gourmet treat, perfect for appetizers or a light meal. Whether enjoyed at a party or as a quick snack, they leave a lasting impression. Easily prepared and even easier to enjoy, they’re a testament to the joys of coastal cuisine. A true delicacy.

19. Garlic Butter Mussels

Garlic Butter Mussels
© Real Food with Sarah

Enjoy the taste of the sea with garlic butter mussels, a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. The mussels, steamed to perfection, bathe in a sauce rich with garlic and butter.

Serve them with crusty bread to soak up every flavorful drop. Ideal for sharing, they turn any meal into a special occasion. Easy to prepare and impressive to serve, they offer a taste of coastal dining at home. A perfect way to savor the freshness of the sea in a relaxed setting.

20. Panko-Crusted Tilapia with Herb Mayo

Panko-Crusted Tilapia with Herb Mayo
© The Spruce Eats

Introduce your family to the joys of seafood with panko-crusted tilapia. These fillets, crispy and golden, are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

Paired with a herby mayo, they offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, they make seafood approachable and enjoyable. Serve with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A family-friendly dish that’s as easy to love as it is to prepare, bringing smiles to every table.