15 Delicious Summer Seafood Recipes

Summer Seafood Recipes are a true delight, offering a perfect combination of fresh, light, and vibrant flavors that are ideal for the warm weather months. As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a dish filled with the bounty of the sea. From succulent shrimp and tender lobster to delicate fish and sweet scallops, summer seafood brings out the best of seasonal ingredients and is perfect for everything from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. The lighter, refreshing nature of these dishes makes them a perfect choice for hot summer days, allowing you to savor the flavors of the ocean while keeping things light and healthy.

Summer Seafood Recipes

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Lemon Garlic Marinade

Description:
These Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Lemon Garlic Marinade are a flavorful and quick-to-make dish that’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a simple dinner. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, tender seafood treat. Serve these skewers with a side of fresh vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 180

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 7g

• Carbohydrates: 2g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 540mg

This light, protein-packed dish is low in carbs, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a flavorful, healthy meal during the summer months.

2. Creamy Lobster Roll

Description:
A Creamy Lobster Roll is the ultimate summer indulgence, combining tender lobster meat with a rich, creamy dressing and served in a soft, buttery roll. This dish brings the taste of the coast to your table and is perfect for casual outdoor gatherings or a special treat. With a balance of sweet lobster, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon, this lobster roll is both decadent and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lobster meat, cooked and chopped

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 soft top-split rolls (New England-style)

• 2 tbsp butter, for toasting the rolls

• Lemon wedges, for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450

• Protein: 26g

• Fat: 27g

• Carbohydrates: 26g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

• Sodium: 580mg

This creamy lobster roll is a satisfying, yet light dish that combines rich, buttery flavors with the freshness of lobster, making it a perfect summer meal for seafood lovers.

3. Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Description:
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa are a vibrant and refreshing summer dish, perfect for warm evenings. The mild, flaky fish is lightly seasoned and grilled, then topped with a zesty, sweet mango salsa. The combination of fresh flavors—tangy fish, sweet mango, and crunchy veggies—delivers a delightful balance in every bite. These tacos are light, healthy, and full of tropical flair, making them an ideal dish for beach days or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 8 small corn tortillas

• 1 cup shredded cabbage (for garnish)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, diced

• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)

• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• Salt, to taste

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 300

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 29g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 15g

• Sodium: 400mg

These fish tacos with mango salsa are a fun, light, and flavorful option that combines the sweetness of mango with the savory taste of grilled fish, making them a perfect choice for summer meals.

4. Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Description:
Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. The tender shrimp pairs beautifully with creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and a tangy citrus dressing. This salad is packed with flavor, offering a satisfying combination of textures and freshness. It’s an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or as a side dish at summer barbecues and gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 ripe avocados, diced

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 380mg

This shrimp and avocado salad is not only packed with nutrients, but it also offers a perfect balance of rich, creamy avocado, light shrimp, and zesty dressing—making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying summer meal.

5. Baked Salmon with Honey Mustard Glaze

Description:
Baked Salmon with Honey Mustard Glaze is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavor of salmon with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. The glaze caramelizes slightly as the salmon bakes, creating a mouthwatering coating that enhances the natural flavors of the fish. This dish is perfect for a healthy dinner or a special occasion, and pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 3 tbsp honey

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 33g

• Fat: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 8g

• Sodium: 360mg

This baked salmon is not only a flavorful, satisfying dish but also a healthy one, offering a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

6. Seafood Paella

Description:
Seafood Paella is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the taste of Spain to your table. This one-pan wonder combines a variety of fresh seafood—such as shrimp, clams, and mussels—with a perfectly seasoned rice base, creating a hearty and aromatic meal. Saffron, garlic, and tomatoes infuse the dish with rich flavors, while the seafood adds a touch of the ocean’s freshness. Whether for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this seafood paella will impress with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and de-bearded

• 1 lb clams, scrubbed

• 1 1/2 cups Arborio or short-grain rice

• 4 cups seafood broth (or chicken broth)

• 1/2 cup white wine

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 tomato, diced

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/4 tsp saffron threads (optional, but recommended)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 38g

• Fat: 14g

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 870mg

Seafood paella is an incredible dish filled with the rich flavors of the sea, infused with spices and saffron that bring it all together.

7. Crab Cakes with Spicy Remoulade Sauce

Description:
Crab Cakes with Spicy Remoulade Sauce are a classic seafood dish that’s both elegant and full of flavor. The tender, flaky crab meat is mixed with just the right amount of seasoning and binder to hold it together, then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Paired with a tangy, spicy remoulade sauce, these crab cakes are a perfect appetizer or main course for any summer gathering. The combination of sweet crab meat and the kick of the remoulade sauce makes for a delightful seafood experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lump crab meat, drained and picked through

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Remoulade Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Tabasco)

• 1 tbsp pickle relish

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 650mg

These crab cakes are a decadent and savory dish that offers a burst of flavor with every bite.

8. Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs

Description:
Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender clams with a creamy broth, accented by fresh herbs for an extra layer of freshness. This classic seafood soup is rich and hearty, perfect for a cozy meal on a cool summer evening or served as a starter for a larger seafood feast. The addition of fresh thyme, parsley, and a hint of garlic elevates the traditional clam chowder, making it a truly satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh clams, scrubbed and cleaned (or 2 cans of chopped clams, drained)

• 2 cups clam broth (or seafood stock)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1/2 cup celery, diced

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 650mg

This Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and fresh, bright flavors.

9. Grilled Fish with Cilantro Lime Butter

Description:
Grilled Fish with Cilantro Lime Butter is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the fish while adding a zesty, herbaceous kick. The grilled fish is topped with a creamy cilantro lime butter that melts into the fillets, creating a perfect balance of fresh citrus and rich, herb-infused flavor. This dish is ideal for a quick, healthy summer meal that’s both light and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 white fish fillets (such as tilapia, snapper, or mahi-mahi)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp lime zest

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Lime wedges, for serving

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 230

• Protein: 23g

• Fat: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 2g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 300mg

This Grilled Fish with Cilantro Lime Butter is a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner. The vibrant cilantro lime butter elevates the fish with a burst of citrus and herbs, making each bite a flavorful treat.

10. Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce

Description:
Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce are a gourmet seafood dish that’s incredibly easy to make yet packed with flavor. The scallops are seared to a golden-brown perfection, creating a crispy crust while maintaining a tender, delicate interior. The garlic butter sauce is rich and savory, complementing the natural sweetness of the scallops. This dish makes for a perfect appetizer or a light main course for any special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large sea scallops, patted dry

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 400mg

These Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce are a rich and elegant seafood dish, offering a perfect balance of crispness from the seared scallops and the creamy, garlicky richness of the butter sauce.

FAQ

1. What is the best way to ensure seafood stays fresh in summer?

To keep seafood fresh, refrigerate it immediately after purchase and use it within 1–2 days. For longer storage, freeze it in airtight packaging. When outdoors, always keep seafood chilled in a cooler with plenty of ice.

2. Can I substitute frozen seafood for fresh in these recipes?

Yes, frozen seafood works well in most recipes if thawed properly. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge or under cold running water—never at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

3. What are some good side dishes to pair with summer seafood?

Light and refreshing sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or herbed rice pair wonderfully with seafood. Citrus-based dressings or vinaigrettes also enhance seafood flavors.

4. How can I make seafood recipes healthier?

Opt for grilling, baking, or steaming instead of frying. Use heart-healthy oils like olive oil, and limit heavy creams or butter-based sauces. Add plenty of herbs, citrus, and fresh vegetables to boost flavor without added calories.