When it comes to cooking seafood, many of us might think it’s a daunting task that requires special skills or a lot of time. But what if I told you that there are countless delicious and easy-to-make seafood recipes out there that can be whipped up in no time? Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration, we’ve got you covered with our list of 20 mouthwatering seafood recipes that will make your taste buds sing.
From classic shrimp scampi to flavorful fish tacos, and from Asian-inspired noodle dishes to hearty seafood stews, these recipes are perfect for any occasion. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover a whole new world of flavors with our 20 Quick Easy Seafood Recipes for Busy Weeknights.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. Serve it over pasta or rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 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 let it melt; add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside.
5. If using wine, add to skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Return shrimp to skillet; toss to coat with garlic butter sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon
A flavorful and moist salmon dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic, resulting in a deliciously tender and savory fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Cajun Shrimp Foil Packets
A flavorful and easy-to-make seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with aromatic spices and herbs, all wrapped up in a convenient foil packet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 lemon wedges (optional)
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into 12-inch squares.
3. Divide the shrimp evenly among the foil packets, leaving a 1-inch border around each.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp, then sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil into packets, sealing the edges tightly.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
8. Remove from oven and serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pan-Seared Honey Glazed Salmon
Pan-Seared Honey Glazed Salmon: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This pan-seared honey glazed salmon recipe combines the richness of grilled fish with the sweetness of a honey glaze, resulting in a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through about 6-8 minutes total.
5. Brush the honey glaze all over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 10-12 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Transform your pasta night with this rich and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of cream. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Lemon Herb Shrimp and Rice
A bright and citrusy one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, flavorful rice, and a tangy lemon herb sauce in just one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook, covered, until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve hot, with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick and Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
A simple and satisfying salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With only a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or rotini)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
15-Minute Garlic Butter Tilapia
Ready in just 15 minutes, this flavorful tilapia recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each tilapia fillet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. 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.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Shrimp and Asparagus
A flavorful and effortless one-pan dinner that combines succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a tangy lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Arrange shrimp and asparagus on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour the lemon butter mixture over the shrimp and asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Seafood Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Quickly cook up a flavorful seafood stir-fry with mixed vegetables and enjoy a nutritious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add seafood; cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and broccoli; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes.
Easy Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Easy Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe!
These succulent crab cakes are infused with the brightness of lemon and the richness of mayonnaise, making them a perfect appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Gently fold the mayonnaise mixture into the crab mixture until just combined.
5. Shape into 6-8 patties.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve with lemon aioli (see below).
Lemon Aioli:
– Mix equal parts mayonnaise and plain Greek yogurt with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Baked Cod
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare cod, with the richness of garlic butter and the ease of baking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 stick of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
6. Sprinkle 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
Spicy Thai Shrimp Soup
This spicy and aromatic soup is a twist on traditional Thai tom yum soup, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful broth with the perfect balance of spicy and sour notes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the broth, mushrooms, and shrimp. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Brighten up your BBQ with these flavorful shrimp skewers, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and the warmth of black pepper. Perfect for a quick summer dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread 2-3 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
One-Pan Mediterranean Shrimp and Orzo
This recipe is a perfect combination of Mediterranean flavors, featuring succulent shrimp cooked with orzo, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in cooked orzo, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Miso Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. With just a few ingredients and minutes on the stovetop, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously glazed fish dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Seafood Fried Rice
Quick Seafood Fried Rice Recipe
Seafood lovers rejoice! This speedy recipe combines savory seafood with fluffy rice and a hint of Asian flair to create a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seafood and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Return the seafood to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Lemon Butter Lobster Tails
Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent recipe featuring succulent lobster tails smothered in a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, white wine (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread half of the lemon butter mixture evenly over each tail.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and brush with remaining lemon butter mixture.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Garlic Butter Clams in White Wine Sauce
Easy Garlic Butter Clams in White Wine Sauce: Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this decadent seafood dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the clams, white wine, clam juice, and lemon juice. Cover the skillet with a lid.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the clams are tender and open.
6. Remove from the oven and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Simple Seafood Paella with Saffron Rice
This classic Spanish dish is a flavorful combination of seafood, saffron-infused rice, and savory spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add seafood, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in saffron mixture and rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add water to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 quick and easy seafood recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From garlicky shrimp scampi to honey-glazed salmon, and from tuna pasta salad to crab cakes with lemon aioli, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are designed to be fast, flavorful, and stress-free, so you can get a delicious meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration, this collection of recipes is sure to please.
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