As summer starts winding down, it’s the perfect time to savor every last bit of sunshine and warmth. One of my favorite ways to do that is by enjoying a variety of seafood dishes. There’s something about the fresh, vibrant flavors of seafood that captures the essence of summer, and it’s a great way to bring a taste of the ocean to your table, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner.
Seafood dishes are incredibly versatile and can be quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for those lazy, lingering summer evenings. From light and refreshing salads to hearty mains, there’s a seafood recipe to suit every mood and occasion. Plus, seafood is often a healthier option, packed with essential nutrients and lean protein, making it a smart choice as we all look forward to a more balanced and wholesome diet.
As we enjoy these final days of summer, let’s make the most of the season with some amazing seafood recipes. They’re not only delicious but also bring a touch of coastal charm to our meals, no matter where we are. So, let’s dive into these seafood dishes and celebrate the end of summer in the best way possible—by sharing good food with great company.
Crab Melt
This open-faced sandwich offers a rich crab flavor that’s perfect for enjoying the last days of summer. It’s quick to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for a light lunch or casual dinner. The melted cheese pairs perfectly with the tender crab meat. It’s an easy way to bring a touch of the sea to your table.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt
Shrimp Cucumber Bites
These bite-sized appetizers are refreshing and light, making them great for summer gatherings. They’re easy to assemble and serve, requiring no cooking. Perfect for a healthy and quick snack or party treat. The combination of shrimp and cucumber is crisp and clean. Enjoy a cool, seafood-inspired snack on a hot day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites
Panko Crusted Cod
This dish features a crispy panko crust that adds texture to the tender cod. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a convenient option for weeknight dinners. The light breading keeps it perfect for summer meals. Serve with a side salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. A great way to enjoy seafood without heavy sauces.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod
Baked Lemon Butter Fish
Enjoy the simplicity of baked fish with a hint of lemon and butter, perfect for a summer dinner. It’s a breeze to prepare and takes about 20 minutes in the oven. Light and flavorful, it’s an ideal main course. Pair with steamed veggies or rice for a complete meal. Perfect for a healthy and fresh dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish
Seafood Pot Pie
This comforting dish is filled with a variety of seafood and vegetables, great for a hearty summer meal. It’s a bit more involved but worth the effort for a special occasion. The creamy filling and flaky crust are a winning combination. Serve hot for a satisfying and indulgent meal. An excellent choice to enjoy seafood in a warm, comforting way.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pot Pie
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and easy stir-fry that’s perfect for busy summer evenings. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of shrimp and broccoli offers a balanced and nutritious dinner. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Ideal for those who want a fast and light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Salmon Pasta Alfredo
This creamy pasta dish with salmon is a great way to enjoy seafood during the summer. It’s rich and filling, yet easy to prepare in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. The alfredo sauce complements the salmon wonderfully. A satisfying way to include more fish in your diet.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo
Bang Bang Shrimp
Spicy and sweet, this shrimp dish is perfect for a summer appetizer or main course. It’s quick to make and full of flavor. The crispy shrimp are coated in a tangy sauce that’s sure to please. Serve with a side of rice or salad. Enjoy a little kick in your summer seafood.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp
Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables
A convenient one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy summer nights. The salmon and vegetables cook together, saving time and cleanup. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a balanced and nutritious option. The flavors meld beautifully in the oven. An easy way to enjoy a complete seafood dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables
Crab Fried Rice
This twist on fried rice includes succulent crab, perfect for a summer meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The rice is packed with flavor and the crab adds a special touch. Serve as a main dish or a side. A delightful way to mix up your usual fried rice.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice
Fish Stew with Chorizo
A hearty stew that combines fish and chorizo for a flavorful summer dinner. It’s a bit more involved but worth it for a special meal. The spicy chorizo adds depth to the tender fish. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the broth. Perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for summer gatherings or a fun dinner. They’re quick to prepare and bake, making them an easy choice. The combination of bacon and salmon is a crowd-pleaser. Serve as an appetizer or part of a main course. Enjoy a tasty seafood snack with a smoky twist.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites
Salmon Salad
This fresh salad with salmon is ideal for a light and healthy summer meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes. The salmon adds protein while the greens keep it refreshing. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner. A nutritious and delicious way to enjoy seafood.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad
Air Fryer Tuna Melt
This modern take on a classic sandwich is perfect for a quick summer meal. Using an air fryer makes it even easier and faster to prepare. The melted cheese and tuna are a great combination. Ready in about 15 minutes, it’s ideal for lunch. Enjoy a warm, seafood-inspired sandwich with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This pasta dish features shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for summer dining. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight option. The flavors are simple yet satisfying. Serve with a side salad or bread. A comforting and tasty way to enjoy shrimp.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Seafood Pasta Salad
This cold pasta salad with seafood is perfect for hot summer days. It’s easy to prepare and great for picnics or potlucks. The combination of pasta and seafood is light and refreshing. Serve as a side dish or a main course. A cool and tasty way to enjoy seafood.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad
Shrimp Macaroni Salad
This creamy macaroni salad with shrimp is a great addition to any summer meal. It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time. The shrimp adds a nice touch to the classic salad. Perfect for barbecues or picnics. Enjoy a cool and refreshing dish on a warm day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
These bacon-wrapped shrimp are a fantastic appetizer or main dish for summer gatherings. They’re easy to make and bake quickly. The combination of smoky bacon and tender shrimp is irresistible. Serve with a dipping sauce for added flavor. A fun and tasty seafood treat.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Shrimp and Corn Bisque
This creamy bisque combines shrimp and corn for a comforting summer dish. It’s a bit more involved but perfect for a special meal. The flavors are rich and hearty. Serve with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy a warm and satisfying seafood soup.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
These grilled shrimp skewers are perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners. They’re quick to prepare and cook in minutes. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the shrimp. Serve with a side of vegetables or salad. An easy and flavorful way to enjoy shrimp.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp and Tomato Pasta
This pasta dish with shrimp and tomatoes is a light and fresh option for summer. It’s easy to prepare and ready in about 30 minutes. The tomatoes add a burst of flavor to the shrimp. Serve with a side salad or bread. A delicious and simple way to enjoy seafood.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta
Crab Rangoon Dip
This creamy dip with crab is perfect for summer parties or casual get-togethers. It’s easy to make and can be served with crackers or vegetables. The crab adds a special touch to the creamy dip. Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s a quick and tasty appetizer. Enjoy a seafood dip that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip
Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon
This simple lemon butter sauce is perfect for enhancing salmon during summer meals. It’s quick to prepare and adds a fresh, tangy flavor. Perfect for grilled or baked salmon. Serve with a side of vegetables or rice. An easy way to add extra flavor to your seafood.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon
Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp
These crispy shrimp are great for summer appetizers or main dishes. The panko coating adds a satisfying crunch. They’re quick to fry and ready in minutes. Serve with a dipping sauce or as part of a meal. A fun and easy way to enjoy shrimp.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp
Shrimp Scampi
This classic shrimp scampi is perfect for a quick summer dinner. It’s easy to prepare and ready in about 20 minutes. The garlic and butter sauce complements the shrimp beautifully. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread. A simple and flavorful way to enjoy seafood.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi