49 Seafood Meals That Hit the Sweet Spot This Time of Year

During colder months, 49 seafood meals can bring much-needed variety to your dinner routine without extra hassle. Occasions pop up where you just want something simple and fulfilling on the table, no overthinking required. Choosing from a wide range keeps things interesting even if you’re short on time.

A bowl of crawfish étouffée garnished with chopped green onions and herbs, served in a light-colored dish. — Crawfish Etouffee. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Air Fryer Shrimp

Crispy bites come together quickly with this Air Fryer Shrimp waiting on the dinner table. Light breading makes every piece feel special without weighing you down. I make extra just in case guests want another handful. People are always curious about how they get so crunchy without deep frying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Clam Chowder

A bowl of creamy soup with clams, bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley, placed on a pink surface next to a spoon and some fresh herbs. — Clam Chowder. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy bowls of this Clam Chowder bring warmth to brisk evenings and chilly lunch hours. Each spoonful has that ocean-fresh comfort everyone craves in winter. I reach for this recipe when a quick, hearty meal is needed. Friends usually help themselves to another ladle before the pot is empty.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Fried Shrimp

Crunch and golden color show up in every bite when you serve this Fried Shrimp at home. Steaming hot, it hits the spot whether you dip or eat them plain. I rely on it as a starter for game days and group dinners. The plate empties faster than you expect.
Get the Recipe: Fried Shrimp

Conch Fritters

A plate of golden-brown fritters garnished with chopped herbs, served with a dipping sauce and a wedge of lemon. — Conch Fritters. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A taste of the coast comes to your kitchen with these Conch Fritters. Their fluffy centers and crisp edges stand out among classic winter appetizers. I whip up a batch for evenings needing a hint of adventure. Guests usually ask for the story behind the flavors.
Get the Recipe: Conch Fritters

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing. — Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fresh crunch and bold flavor fill plates thanks to this Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Lively seasoning keeps each bite interesting during cooler months. I love bringing this out for lunch with friends who want something light but memorable. It always sparks requests for the dressing recipe.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Crispy Rice Tuna

Close-up of crispy rice rounds topped with diced tuna, avocado, mango, and sesame seeds, served on a beige plate with a small dish of soy sauce. — Crispy Rice Tuna. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sizzling squares of this Crispy Rice Tuna combine crunch and richness for a punchy appetizer. Every bite leaves people guessing how such a simple dish steals the show. I stack them as finger food at winter gatherings. Seconds barely last a minute.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice Tuna

Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice with peas, eggs, and diced vegetables being stirred with a wooden spatula. — Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Lighter meals matter when hibernation season gets long, making this Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice perfect. Each bowl feels filling without the heaviness of regular fried rice. I choose this dish for busy nights needing a quick cleanup. People comment on the flavor twist every time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background. — Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Elegant starters are easily made with these Salmon Deviled Eggs on a cold night. Smoky, creamy centers give a hint of luxury in each bite. I add them to brunch spreads or appetizer platters for extra interest. Curious guests want to know if there’s anything left to nibble.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate. — Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chillier days brighten up with these Rice Paper Rolls stacked on the plate. Fresh veggies and juicy seafood create a fun combo for snacking or light meals. I enjoy prepping extras so leftovers make the next day easy. People always mention how these rolls feel refreshing after heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Shrimp Ceviche

Zingy flavors pop in every mouthful of this Shrimp Ceviche, perfect for evenings when you crave something new. The cool crunch stands out as a lively contrast to winter comfort food. I make it when the table needs extra brightness. It disappears as soon as people taste the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate. — Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Toasty outside and gooey inside earn this Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich applause every single time. The hearty layers and warmth of the filling work wonders against a winter wind. I keep this recipe handy for busy lunch breaks. The smell alone brings everyone nearby to see what’s cooking.
Get the Recipe: Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Marry Me Salmon

Grilled salmon fillet topped with a creamy herb sauce, served next to a portion of white rice. — Marry Me Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Flaky fish wrapped in creamy sauce puts this Marry Me Salmon at the top of dinner requests during cold months. Each bite feels like an invitation for seconds. I love serving it on nights when comfort is a must. Overheard compliments are just part of the fun.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Three glasses of shrimp cocktail with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro garnish in a tomato-based sauce, placed on a light-colored surface. — Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chill meets spice in this vibrant Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Crisp veggies and bold sauce make every spoonful a party for your taste. I save this for casual gatherings as an impressive starter. Friends happily scoop up every last shrimp.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Hot Crab Dip

A spoon lifts a portion of cheesy baked pasta topped with chopped parsley from a casserole dish. — Hot Crab Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Cold evenings turn festive with scoops from this Hot Crab Dip on the table. Rich, creamy base lets the crab shine, making it an instant favorite. I double the recipe for group celebrations as it disappears quickly. People linger near the bowl, hoping for more.
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab Dip

Shrimp Cocktail

Classic and cool, this Shrimp Cocktail always draws a crowd even in the heart of winter. Bright dipping sauce and plump shrimp make every plate pop. I serve it at parties for an easy yet impressive start to the meal. Conversation tends to circle who gets the next shrimp.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Tom Yum Soup

Tangy and spicy broth wraps you in warmth with this Tom Yum Soup. Each sip delivers bold notes and plenty of comfort against the icy weather. I go for this dish as soon as cravings hit for something with heat. Comments about flavor come with every slurp.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Sheet Pan Salmon

Baked salmon fillets garnished with lemon slices, served with roasted broccoli, asparagus, potatoes, and garlic cloves on a sheet pan. — Sheet Pan Salmon. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Quick prep and easy cleanup make this Sheet Pan Salmon shine on busy weeknights. Roasted veggies and flaky fish come together for a nutritious meal that feels special. I roast extra for leftovers, knowing they stay fresh. People always praise how effortless it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon

Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side. — Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tender seafood with a crackle of spice marks out this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp as a crowd pleaser. Briny bite pairs well with a cozy dinner at home. I set it out for casual gatherings since it vanishes fast. Everyone asks if there’s another batch coming.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Tuna Casserole

Steaming, creamy layers make this Tuna Casserole a classic for nights when the snow piles up. The blend of fish, pasta, and sauce outlasts cold evenings with pure comfort. I bring it out whenever group dinners call for something nostalgic. Empty plates are always a guarantee.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Casserole

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate. — Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sushi at home feels doable once you try this Shrimp Tempura Roll. Crunchy filling and smooth rice make it stand out from regular rolls. I serve it for game nights to kick off with something out of the ordinary. Everyone grabs seconds long before the main course.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos

Tacos with grilled salmon, purple cabbage, corn, jalapeño slices, cilantro, and drizzled with white sauce on tortillas. — Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos pack heat and crunch, bringing summer flavors into the heart of winter. Unique seasoning and bright toppings keep noses pressed to the kitchen door. I enjoy these for Friday dinners that break the routine. Surprised smiles follow every bite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, purple cabbage, carrots, greens, and topped with chopped peanuts and peanut sauce, served on a plate. — Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light and crisp, these Shrimp Spring Rolls help refresh the menu on days that need a change. Tangy dipping sauce turns snacking into an experience. I roll extra for lunch the next day since leftovers never get boring. Houseguests usually request the recipe as soon as they’re done.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Baked Salmon

Cooked salmon fillet garnished with lemon slices and herbs, with a fork flaking the fish on a plate with sauce. — Baked Salmon. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Gentle roasting gives flaky texture to this Baked Salmon that’s perfect for cold-weather dinners. Rich flavor and healthy fats combine into a main dish that feels fresh. I choose this for weeknight meals when time feels short. Everyone appreciates the clean taste and no-fuss style.
Get the Recipe: Baked Salmon

Shrimp Scampi

Close-up of cooked shrimp seasoned with herbs and black pepper. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Butter and garlic transform seafood into comfort with this Shrimp Scampi. Tender bites and glossy noodles win the spotlight at family-style dinners. I reach for this recipe on nights needing something restaurant-worthy. The simple elegance gets rave reviews every time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Sushi Bake

Cozy nights benefit from a shareable tray of this Sushi Bake straight out of the oven. Layers of seasoned rice and seafood make every forkful rich and creamy. I love seeing it disappear fast during movie nights. Guests linger around the pan for another scoop.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Spicy Tuna Bowl

A bowl of white rice topped with sliced cucumber, shredded nori, chopped green onions, and a portion of tuna, with a pair of chopsticks resting on top. — Spicy Tuna Bowl. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Seasoned rice and punchy flavors make this Spicy Tuna Bowl a lively change when winter stretches on. Custom toppings add color and crunch, turning dinner into an adventure. I start with this dish when the table needs something fresh. People always mix and match for their perfect bowl.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Bowl

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside. — Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet fruit and juicy seafood meet in this Mango Shrimp Salad for a showstopper at lunch. The refreshing combination is great for those days when heavier dishes feel dull. I bring out this recipe for parties. Guests will talk about the flavor for weeks to come.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Smoked Mackerel Pate

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light brown spread, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices. — Smoked Mackerel Pate. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Smoky richness fills every scoop of this Smoked Mackerel Pate spread on crackers. It goes over well as an unexpected treat during winter get-togethers. I set the bowl out as a starter before the main meal. People always want to know if there’s more hiding in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Hot Breakfast Sandwich

A sesame seed bagel sandwich with cream cheese, smoked salmon, red onion, cucumber, and sprouts on a plate. — Hot Breakfast Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mornings warm up quickly with bites from this Hot Breakfast Sandwich stacked with seafood. Layers of flavor and melty ingredients wake you up better than any cold cereal. I make these on big days for an energy boost. Compliments usually come as soon as the first sandwich disappears.
Get the Recipe: Hot Breakfast Sandwich

Shrimp Etouffee

A bowl of white rice topped with cooked shrimp, diced tomatoes, green onions, and sauce, garnished with chopped herbs and lime wedges. — Shrimp Etouffee. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Deep, spicy broth and tender seafood bring comfort to chilly evenings with this Shrimp Etouffee. Aromas fill the house while the pot bubbles away. I serve this dish for special occasions or Sunday dinners. People always return to the table for another spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Etouffee

California Roll Sushi Bowl

A bowl of sushi rice topped with diced avocado, raw fish, seaweed, carrots, black sesame seeds, and a creamy orange sauce. — California Roll Sushi Bowl. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

All the best sushi flavors land in this California Roll Sushi Bowl without the fuss of rolling. Bright ingredients and creamy sauce are perfect for weeknight dinners. I add extra toppings for a personal twist. Friends love building their bowls at the table.
Get the Recipe: California Roll Sushi Bowl

Flaky Air Fryer Cod

Image of cooked air fryer cod fillets seasoned with herbs and garnished with lemon wedges and parsley on a plate. — Flaky Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Moist flakes and a crisp shell set this Flaky Air Fryer Cod apart during winter fish fries. There’s low oil and less mess, making busy nights simpler. I rely on it when cravings for golden seafood hit. Everyone agrees this cod could rival any restaurant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Air Fryer Cod

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions. — Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet heat and a creamy touch make Bang Bang Shrimp stand out from regular appetizers. The fun sauce coats every crispy piece and draws smiles at watch parties. I double the batch for bigger groups. There are rarely any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Salmon Patties

Each bite of these Salmon Patties hits the spot on a snow-covered night. Crisp outsides with soft centers guarantee a dish that feels filling. I save some for sandwiches, knowing they’re even better the next day. People always ask how they get so light.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Patties

Kimchi Stew

Spicy, fermented flavor wakes up the palate in this Kimchi Stew bubbling on the stove. Seafood and veggies combine for a warming meal option. I use it when winter calls for a little more excitement. Guests welcome the surprising kick.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla. — Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy shells and juicy filling make these Shrimp Tacos a staple during cold months. A squeeze of lime brings each bite to life. I mix up batches for casual nights with friends. Seconds vanish as soon as plates are set down.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Salmon Caesar Salad

Close-up of a Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, shredded chicken, grated cheese, and a creamy dressing. — Salmon Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Greens and grilled fish pair in this Salmon Caesar Salad, bringing balance to rich winter meals. Creamy dressing coats every ingredient for a classic flavor with a seafood twist. I toss it together for a lighter dinner. People appreciate how refreshing it feels.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad

Maryland Crab Cake

Meaty cakes crisp up in this Maryland Crab Cake and earn applause at any dinner table. Each forkful brings real crab flavor you just can’t fake. I serve them for special occasions as an easy showstopper. There’s never time for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños. — Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light, crunchy batter surrounds every bite in this Shrimp Tempura. Hot out of the pan, it competes with any takeout dish for winter dinners. I keep extra dipping sauce ready for guests. The platter is always empty by the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Crab Rangoon

A bowl of fried wontons served with a side of red dipping sauce and a small dish of chopped green onions. — Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy filling and crisp shells make Crab Rangoon a perfect appetizer before the main event. The fun shapes and rich flavor encourage everyone to grab a few. I bake plenty for holiday parties. Friendly debates break out over who got the last one.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives. — Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Toasted buns and sweet seafood help this Lobster Roll shine even as the snow falls. Each bite tastes like a luxury treat in the heart of winter. I pull out this recipe for family celebrations. Compliments about freshness pop up before dinner ends.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of fettuccine pasta with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper. — Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Velvety sauce pairs with plump seafood in this Shrimp Alfredo for a dinner that feels warm and special. Noodles and shrimp blend into the comfort you crave on chilly evenings. I prepare this for quiet nights in. Guests nearly always head back to the kitchen for more.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

Tuna Noodle Casserole

Creamy noodles and hearty seafood make this Tuna Noodle Casserole a classic throughout winter. Quick prep frees up time for cozy evenings. I serve it on days calling for something fast but homemade. People agree it’s a pure comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro. — Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bowls overflow with flavor thanks to this Shrimp Burrito Bowls recipe. Fresh toppings and savory shrimp turn weeknight dinners into a celebration. I build extras for speedy lunches. People often ask for your special bowl tips.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Thai Fried Rice

A plate of shrimp fried rice with pieces of scrambled egg, green onions, and leafy vegetables. — Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Aromatic and colorful, this Thai Fried Rice brings new flavor profiles to seafood nights. Peppers, herbs, and savory bites create variety on the table. I toss it together when the routine needs shaking up. Everyone notices the extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray. — Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy bites topped with seafood and spreads keep these Crostini Appetizers in demand for holiday gatherings. Each one is just the right size to share around the room. I mix up the toppings for extra excitement. People always ask about their favorites.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish. — Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty noodles and punchy sauce land on plates with this Thai Drunken Noodles. Each bite brings a warm heat, perfect for winter meals. I save this dish for nights needing an extra kick. Empty bowls and big smiles always follow.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. — Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy sauce and tender shrimp make this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a date-night favorite. Each bite leaves an impression in the middle of a busy week. I serve it for occasions, asking for comfort and elegance in one. Leftovers get fought over at lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Crawfish Etouffee

Deep spices and rich seafood make this Crawfish Etouffee the centerpiece for wintry gatherings. Every spoonful is a mix of heat and flavor worth sharing. I go for this recipe when guests are hungry for something bold. People linger by the pot hoping for an extra scoop.
Get the Recipe: Crawfish Etouffee

About the Author

A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.