From Fridge To Fancy With 21 Seafood Recipes You’ll Love

Making seafood look impressive isn’t hard—it just takes the right ideas. With 21 options, it’s easy to turn whatever’s in the fridge into something that seems fancy. No complicated tricks, just smart choices that make dinner feel like a big deal. Less effort, more compliments. Sounds like a win.

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

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you have an air fryer, put it to good use with this quick seafood dish. Air Fryer Shrimp cooks up perfectly crispy without all the oil from deep frying. It’s so simple, and you still get that pleasing crunch. Serve them as they are, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

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.

Starting off a meal with something light? Crostini Appetizers topped with a little seafood make for a perfect start. They’re easy to pick up with your hands, and you can make a bunch without much hassle. Great for gatherings where you want to impress without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a twist on the usual toast, try Shrimp Toast. It combines the crunch of toasted bread with the juicy flavor of shrimp. This is fantastic for a quick snack or a unique side dish at dinner. It’s surprisingly filling and always a hit with a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want something with a bit of a kick, Kimchi Stew is a go-to. This stew mixes unique flavors and textures that fill you up and warm you up. It’s not just spicy; it also has a deep, rich base that brings everything together. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your usual soup routine.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

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.

Ever heard of a dish so good it could make someone propose? Marry Me Salmon might just be that dish. It’s rich in flavor and looks stunning on the plate. Perfect for a special dinner at home, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

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.

Ditch the tortilla but keep all the flavors with Shrimp Burrito Bowls. This dish is packed with good stuff like veggies and rice, topped with savory shrimp. It’s customizable depending on what you have in the fridge. A great meal for any day of the week!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

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

Looking for a twist on the classic tuna sandwich? Use your air fryer for Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. It brings out the flavor of the tuna wonderfully. Easy to make and satisfying, it’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail with peeled shrimp arranged on the rim of a glass filled with cocktail sauce, garnished with parsley.
Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When it comes to classic seafood dishes, Shrimp Cocktail is a top choice. It’s simple, elegant, and always a favorite at parties. Just cook the shrimp, chill them, and serve with a tasty sauce. It’s that easy and extremely refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish filled with golden-brown baked tuna noodle casserole, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

On chilly nights, a hearty Tuna Noodle Casserole can be a warm delight. This dish combines noodles with tuna in a creamy sauce. Bake it until bubbly and you’ve got a comforting meal. It’s great for feeding a family or bringing to a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Blackened Salmon Tacos

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

Change up taco night with Blackened Salmon Tacos. This recipe gives the salmon a nice, spicy crust that’s full of flavor. It’s a lighter taco option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Wrap it up in your favorite tortilla and add some fresh toppings.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon Tacos

Shrimp Scampi

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

For a fancy yet simple meal, Shrimp Scampi is a sure win. It’s got all the garlic and butter flavor you crave. Serve it over pasta or rice for a complete dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for company.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Best Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole in a white baking dish.
Best Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Make a casserole they’ll ask for again with Best Tuna Casserole. It’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly comforting and fulfilling. This one comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights and hectic schedules. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

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.

Add a little flair to your dinner with Shrimp Tacos. These are light and tasty, with the shrimp bringing a nice texture to your meal. Quick to prepare, it’s a fun way to spice up your mealtime routine. Add your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa for a custom finish.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

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

Who doesn’t love a piece of perfectly crispy fish? Crispy Air Fryer Cod is the answer when you’re aiming for light and crispy without the grease. This air fryer recipe makes it easy to achieve that perfect texture. It’s a straightforward way to prepare fish that even kids will love.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dig into some classic East Coast flavor with Maryland Crab Cake. These crab cakes are all about the crab, with just enough other ingredients to hold them together. Perfectly seasoned, they fry up to a golden brown. Great as a main dish or a hearty appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

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.

Want something light and flavorful? Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing ticks all the boxes. The spiced shrimp pairs perfectly with the rich, smooth dressing. It’s a fresh, tasty option for lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

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.

Put a new spin on a familiar appetizer with Salmon Deviled Eggs. These are a nice twist on your standard deviled eggs, adding some smoked salmon for extra flavor. They’re always popular at parties and easy to pop in your mouth. A great choice for a fancy but fuss-free snack.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

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.

For a dish with a bit of heat and a lot of flavor, Thai Drunken Noodles is a standout. This dish is vibrant, with noodles tossed in a deliciously spicy sauce. It’s perfect for those who love to explore different flavors. Easily adjusted to how hot you like it.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm up with a bowl of Tom Yum Soup. This soup is famed for its intense flavors, with a spicy and sour broth. It’s light yet fulfilling and often includes fresh seafood. A fantastic choice if you’re looking to try something different in your soup rotation.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Love sushi but don’t want the hassle of rolling it? Sushi Bake is for you. This casserole-style dish takes all the flavors of sushi and bakes them into an easy-to-serve dish. It’s fun to make and even more fun to eat, especially in a group.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Shrimp Tempura

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

If you enjoy a light batter and tender seafood, Shrimp Tempura is a must-try. This Japanese dish is crispy on the outside, while the shrimp inside stays nice and soft. It’s perfect as an appetizer or part of a larger spread. Plus, everyone loves dipping them into the tempura sauce.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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.

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