Seafood lovers, rejoice! Shellfish are a culinary treasure trove, offering a wealth of flavors and textures to delight even the most discerning palates. From succulent shrimp to briny clams, and from spicy crawfish boils to decadent lobster thermidor, there’s no shortage of ways to indulge in these tasty treats. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 delectable shellfish recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or adventurous flavor profiles, we’ve got you covered. From comforting bowls of New England clam chowder to spicy Cajun crawfish boils and indulgent lobster rolls, these recipes showcase the best of what shellfish have to offer. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into the ocean of flavors waiting for you below.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and tender pasta is a match made in heaven. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy this decadent scampi any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon white wine (optional)
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked linguine with garlic butter mixture and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic New England Clam Chowder
A quintessential New England dish, this creamy clam chowder is a staple of coastal cuisine. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups clam juice (canned or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, flour, and clam juice. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil
Get ready for a flavor-packed boil that’s perfect for seafood lovers! This Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil recipe combines the classic Lowcountry boil with a spicy kick from cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound crawfish tails
– 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
– 4 cups water
– 2 cups Zatarain’s Creole Seasoning
– 2 lemons, quartered
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a rolling boil.
2. Add Zatarain’s Creole Seasoning, lemons, garlic, and crawfish tails. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the crawfish turn bright red.
3. Remove from heat and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the liquid before serving, reserving some of the spicy broth as a dipping sauce.
5. Serve with crusty bread and chopped green onions for garnish.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Lobster Thermidor
A decadent seafood dish that combines succulent lobster meat with a rich, creamy thermidor sauce and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cognac
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add lobster meat and cognac; cook until lobster is opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Coconut Curry Mussels
Experience the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Coconut Curry Mussels. Succulent mussels are cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce, perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water, discarding any broken or open shells.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add coconut milk, curry paste, fish sauce, and lime juice to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add mussels to the skillet, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until mussels are opened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Herb Butter
Elevate your next gathering with this delectable and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of herb butter. Perfect for a warm summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, scrubbed clean
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, chives, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Season oysters with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or paprika.
4. Place oysters on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they open.
5. Spread a small pat of herb butter onto each grilled oyster.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes (grilling time only)
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish from the Southern United States, Shrimp and Grits is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, grated cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add paprika and garlic powder to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked grits into the skillet with the spice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the shrimp on top of the grits, garnished with chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Clams in White Wine Sauce
This recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of seafood cooking. Freshly steamed clams are elevated to a new level with a rich and flavorful white wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large steamer basket.
2. Steam the clams for 3-5 minutes or until they open.
3. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add white wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice to the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the steamed clams with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prawn Cocktail with Spicy Mayo
A classic combination of succulent prawns, tangy mayonnaise, and a kick of spice that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Add the prawns to the bowl and gently coat them with the spicy mayo mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Lobster Roll with Lemon Aioli
This classic summer recipe combines succulent lobster meat with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli, all wrapped up in a soft, buttered bun. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a decadent treat anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the buns and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a bowl, mix together lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the rolls by placing about 1/4 cup of the lobster mixture onto each bun.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Cream Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent scallops and a rich garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the preheated pan and swirl it around to melt.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.
6. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
9. Serve the scallops with the garlic cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clam Linguine with Fresh Parsley
This classic Italian dish combines the brininess of fresh clams with the brightness of parsley, all wrapped up in a light and flavorful linguine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add clams, white wine (if using), and clam juice. Cover skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until clams are tender.
4. Stir in cooked linguine, salt, and pepper. Combine well.
5. Top with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Savor the flavor of the Chesapeake Bay with these succulent crab cakes, perfectly balanced with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce. This recipe yields 8-10 patties.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dot top of each patty with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve crab cakes with Remoulade Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Shrimp Soup
Warm up with this spicy and flavorful soup that combines succulent shrimp with a blend of aromatic Thai spices and herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp, broth, coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and cayenne pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Mussels with Tomato Basil Broth
Enjoy a flavorful and aromatic seafood dish with this simple recipe for Steamed Mussels with Tomato Basil Broth. Fresh mussels are steamed to perfection and served in a savory broth made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water and remove any broken shells.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, basil, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
5. Add mussels to the pot, cover, and steam until opened, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Serve mussels in bowls with broth spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent recipe that combines the richness of lobster with the pungency of garlic butter. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1-1.5 pounds each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lobster tails on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Meanwhile, brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the lobster tails during the last minute of grilling.
5. Remove from heat and squeeze with lemon juice. Garnish with parsley leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Shrimp Paella with Saffron Rice
Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that originated from the Valencia region. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with flavorful saffron-infused rice, creating a mouthwatering and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice (such as Bomba or Calasparra)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt 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 (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add rice, water, saffron, chicken broth, smoked paprika (if using), and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Baked Stuffed Clams with Breadcrumbs
A delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or main course, baked stuffed clams are a perfect combination of flavors and textures. This recipe yields 12-15 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen large clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together butter, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each clam.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the clams are cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ocean’s bounty with these 18 scrumptious shellfish recipes! From classic clam chowder to spicy Cajun crawfish boil, and from succulent lobster rolls to flavorful shrimp paella, this collection has something for every seafood lover. Discover how to make garlic butter shrimp scampi, pan-seared scallops with garlic cream sauce, or grilled oysters with herb butter. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or delicate dishes, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the coast. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a culinary adventure with these mouthwatering shellfish creations!
