When it comes to seafood, there’s nothing quite like the rich flavors and textures of shellfish. From succulent shrimp to decadent lobster, these delicious creatures offer a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just a lover of seafood, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 flavorful shellfish recipes that are sure to delight.
From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Steamed Littleneck Clams in White Wine Sauce, to spicy twists like Spicy Cajun Crab Boil and Thai Basil Shrimp Stir-Fry, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to satisfy your shellfish cravings. And with a range of recipes featuring everything from mussels and clams to lobster and shrimp, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Garlic butter shrimp scampi is a staple for any seafood lover, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low; whisk in lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked shrimp with garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately over fettuccine, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Crab Boil
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy seafood boil that’s perfect for gatherings or special occasions! This Spicy Cajun Crab Boil recipe combines the richness of crab with the bold flavors of cayenne pepper, garlic, and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp cayenne pepper
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 lb red potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1 lb smoked sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover all the ingredients. Add cayenne pepper, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add crab meat, potatoes, sausage, and lemon slices.
4. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Lobster Tails
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of lobster with the zing of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 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, parsley, and dill.
3. Brush both sides of lobster tails with the lemon-herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lobster tails for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Mussels
Coconut Curry Mussels Recipe: A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional mussels, this recipe combines succulent shellfish with the richness of coconut milk and the warmth of curry spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mussels, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
3. Pour in coconut milk; bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let mussels cook for 5-7 minutes or until opened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Clam Chowder
A comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This classic recipe combines tender clams, potatoes, onions, and celery with a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1/2 cup diced potatoes (about 1 medium)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, flour, milk, clam juice, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender and soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Clams
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brininess of clams with the richness of garlic and parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherrystone or littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse clams under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the clams and sprinkle the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly over each clam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until clams are open and the topping is golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and indulgent recipe that combines the brininess of oysters with the spicy kick of chili peppers and the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, shucked and rinsed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lime juice, and chili flakes until smooth.
3. Brush the grill with oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place oysters on the grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shells are slightly charred and oysters are cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, dolloping chili lime butter over each oyster and garnishing with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage
A classic Lowcountry dish that combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and spicy Andouille sausage. This recipe is a hearty and flavorful twist on the original.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring grits and water or broth to a boil in a large pot. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, cook Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using garlic, add it now.
5. Serve shrimp and sausage over hot grits. Garnish with scallions and cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Steamed Littleneck Clams in White Wine Sauce
Savor the fresh flavors of the ocean with this simple and elegant recipe for Steamed Littleneck Clams in White Wine Sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
• 2 dozen littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
• 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large steamer basket.
2. In a small saucepan, combine white wine, butter, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Place the steamer basket over the saucepan and cover with a lid.
4. Steam the clams for 8-10 minutes or until they open.
5. Serve the clams in bowls with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Offer lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Thai Basil Shrimp Stir-Fry
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with the essence of Thai basil, garlic, and chili peppers. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the Thai basil, chilies, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using); stir-fry for an additional 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent lobster macaroni and cheese recipe, perfect for a special occasion or indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup cooked lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs and chopped parsley for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add cooked lobster meat and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Scallop Ceviche with Avocado
This recipe combines succulent scallops with the creamy richness of avocado, creating a light and zesty ceviche perfect for warm weather. With just a few ingredients and a minimal amount of prep time, you can enjoy this delightful appetizer or snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound scallops
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the scallops into small pieces and place them in a shallow dish.
2. Add the lime juice, salt, and chopped onion to the scallops. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the diced avocado and chopped jalapeño.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Maryland-style crab cakes paired with a tangy remoulade sauce, perfect for your next dinner party or seafood celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for remoulade)
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Form into 8-10 patties. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, prepare remoulade sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, parsley, and sour cream in a small bowl.
6. Serve crab cakes with remoulade sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paella with Mussels, Clams, and Shrimp
This classic Spanish dish combines the flavors of saffron-infused rice with succulent seafood, creating a hearty and aromatic meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
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 minutes.
3. Add mussels, clams, and shrimp; cook until the seafood is lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, saffron mixture, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Garlic Butter Crab Legs
Elevate your seafood game with this mouthwatering Spicy Garlic Butter Crab Legs recipe that combines the sweetness of crab legs with the savory flavors of garlic, butter, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab legs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, mustard, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Remove crab legs from the refrigerator and rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
4. Place crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crab legs.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crab is lightly browned and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the tropical coast of Mexico with these succulent shrimp tacos, topped with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa ingredients (see below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, Mango Salsa, and any desired toppings (such as diced avocado, sour cream, or cilantro).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Mussels in Tomato Basil Broth
Savor the flavors of summer with this light and refreshing mussel dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe showcases the simplicity of steaming mussels while infusing them with the bright, herbaceous notes of tomato basil broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water; discard any broken or open shells.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, basil, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Arrange mussels in the pot; cover with a lid. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until mussels open.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with crusty bread for sopping up the flavorful broth.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri
Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, these grilled shrimp skewers are elevated by a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. This Argentinean-inspired condiment adds a burst of fresh flavor to the succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped oregano
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar in a bowl.
5. Brush chimichurri sauce over shrimp during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into a world of flavor with these 18 shellfish recipes that are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings! From classic clam chowder and garlic shrimp scampi to spicy Cajun crab boil and grilled lobster tails, there’s something for every taste. Discover new favorite dishes like coconut curry mussels, Thai basil shrimp stir-fry, and scallop ceviche with avocado, or indulge in comforting classics like lobster mac and cheese and shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage. Whether you’re a seafood novice or connoisseur, these recipes are sure to impress!
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