Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to indulge in your favorite dishes? Look no further! Shellfish is a staple in many cuisines around the world, offering a diverse range of flavors and textures. From spicy boils to decadent chowders, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering shellfish recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of shellfish, highlighting the best of the best from across the globe. Whether you’re a fan of succulent shrimp, plump mussels, or tender clams, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your fork and dive in – it’s time to get shellfishing!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple of seafood lovers everywhere, and for good reason. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking time, you can create a mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil
Get ready to party with this spicy Cajun crawfish boil recipe that’s perfect for a backyard gathering or tailgating event!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs large head-on crawfish (or crawdads)
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3-4 red bell peppers, sliced
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ice for cooling
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot or crawfish boiler with enough water to cover the ingredients.
2. Add sliced sausage, onion, bell peppers, and garlic.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning blend and Old Bay seasoning evenly over the top.
4. Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
5. Add crawfish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to the pot.
6. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crawfish turn bright red and are cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and let cool with ice.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Classic New England Clam Chowder
This creamy and comforting soup is a staple of New England cuisine, featuring tender clams, potatoes, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 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
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, milk, clam juice, and potatoes. Stir well.
4. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lobster Tails with Herb Butter
Experience the sweet and succulent flavor of lobster elevated to new heights with this simple yet impressive recipe. By grilling the lobster tails and serving them with a rich herb butter, you’ll be sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 1/2 pounds total)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, chives, and lemon zest.
4. Place lobster tails on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with herb butter melted on top.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Coconut Curry Mussels
Discover the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple yet indulgent recipe for Coconut Curry Mussels. This aromatic dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup curry paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mussels, coconut milk, curry paste, and cumin; stir to combine.
4. Cover skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until mussels open.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Clams in White Wine Sauce
This classic French-inspired recipe is a simple yet elegant way to prepare fresh clams, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket or a pot with a steaming insert over boiling water.
2. In a large bowl, combine clams, white wine, butter, lemon juice, and garlic. Toss gently to coat.
3. Place the clam mixture in the steamer basket or pot, cover, and steam for 6-8 minutes or until clams are opened and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pesto Shrimp Pasta
This recipe brings together the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a weeknight dinner. Pesto, garlic shrimp, and linguine come together in a harmonious fusion that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Toss with cooked linguine until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Stuffed Clams
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of clams baked with garlic butter, parsley, and breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherrystone or littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the clams under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, parsley, and breadcrumbs.
4. Stuff each clam shell with the garlic-butter mixture, dividing it evenly among the clams.
5. Place the stuffed clams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the clams open and the filling is golden brown.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Scallops
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the zesty brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic, making it a perfect dish for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
4. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the scallops.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until scallops are opaque and firm to the touch.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Serve immediately: Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Scallops with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Shrimp and Grits with Cheddar
This comforting dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and sharp cheddar for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this flavorful meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until creamy.
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. Stir garlic into the skillet with the shrimp; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked grits and cheddar cheese in a bowl. Stir until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with shrimp mixture and garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Style Steamed Mussels
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy recipe for steamed mussels, infused with aromatic lemongrass and chilies.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup lemongrass-infused oil (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water, then place them in a large steamer basket.
2. In a small bowl, combine lemongrass-infused oil, garlic, ginger, and chilies.
3. Pour the mixture over the mussels.
4. Add fish sauce and lime juice to the basket.
5. Steam the mussels over boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until they open.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pan-Seared Crab Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these succulent pan-seared crab cakes, packed with fresh crab meat and a hint of spice. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 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
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
3. Flatten each ball slightly into a cake shape.
4. Heat a large skillet with about 1/8 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Pan-fry crab cakes for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a spicy kick and creamy avocado salsa for a delightful fusion of flavors.
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
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the 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. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This rich and creamy macaroni dish is elevated by the addition of succulent lobster meat, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 lb lobster meat (cooked and flaked)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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, paprika, and garlic powder to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, then bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni, lobster meat, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Clam Linguine
This recipe combines the simplicity of linguine with the indulgent flavors of garlic butter and tender clams, making it a perfect dinner option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh or canned clams, drained and rinsed
– 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. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking liquid.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add clams to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they open. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked linguine, clam mixture, and reserved pasta cooking liquid in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your oyster game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the brininess of grilled oysters with the spicy kick and tangy zip of chili lime butter.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, shucked and rinsed
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lime juice, hot sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth.
3. Place oysters on the grill, leaving about 1 inch between each.
4. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until oysters are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and brush with chili lime butter mixture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total
Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of spicy sausage, succulent shrimp, and savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb. smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cioppino Seafood Stew
Cioppino, a classic San Francisco-style seafood stew, is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines a variety of seafood with aromatic spices and herbs to create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed
– 1 lb fish (such as cod or halibut), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, celery, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mussels, clams, fish, diced tomatoes, fish broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scallop Risotto with Parmesan
This decadent risotto is a perfect blend of tender scallops, creamy Arborio rice, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate pot, bring broth to a simmer. Keep warm.
3. In the same skillet as the scallops, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed. Then, add 1/2 cup warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cooked scallops. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful stir-fry dish that combines succulent shrimp with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and broccoli; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise! This article presents 20 mouth-watering shellfish recipes that will take your taste buds on a culinary journey. From classic dishes like New England Clam Chowder and Lobster Mac and Cheese, to international flavors such as Thai-Style Steamed Mussels and Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of cooking methods and ingredients, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for the ocean’s finest delicacies.
