I Served 29 Easy Seafood Recipes And Didn’t Need Sides

They came hungry, left stuffed, and not once did anyone ask where the bread was. Turns out, when you serve 29 seafood mains that actually feel like mains, people forget side dishes ever existed. Plates were passed, fingers were used, and someone even called dibs on the last bite. Nobody missed the extra fluff not even grandma.

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.

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.

Bite-sized, crispy, and packed with texture, Conch Fritters easily work as a standalone option. They’re light enough to snack on but hearty enough to feel like a full meal. The flavor holds up without needing any extras alongside it. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these fritters are quick and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Conch Fritters

Best Tuna Casserole

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

Creamy and comforting, Best Tuna Casserole makes it easy to skip anything else on the table. The soft textures blend perfectly, giving it everything you need for a complete dish. It’s an easy choice for when you want something filling without a lot of fuss. Reliable and simple, it always finds a way back into dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

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.

Crispy outside with a smooth, flavorful filling, Crab Rangoon works well all on its own. Each bite carries plenty of flavor, making sides unnecessary. Whether as an appetizer or a full plate, it’s great for gatherings or casual meals. With easy prep, it’s a dish that disappears quickly from the table.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Smoky and tender, Grilled Shrimp Kabobs deliver enough flavor to stand alone. Every skewer offers a mix of textures that feel complete in each bite. They’re quick to make and never need anything extra to round them out. Whether for a quick meal or special occasions, these kabobs are always a hit on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

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.

Golden-crusted with a flaky center, Crispy Air Fryer Cod provides everything you need in one dish. The contrast between crispy and tender makes it filling without feeling heavy. Great for lunches or dinners, it works for just about any occasion. Easy to prepare and fulfilling on its own, this cod always makes a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

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.

Light with bold flavors, Mango Shrimp Salad is perfect when you want a dish that feels complete without extras. The textures are balanced and don’t need anything else to bring the meal together. Quick to prep, it makes a convenient choice for busy days. It’s fresh, satisfying, and easy to keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Creamy sauce paired with tender fish makes Marry Me Salmon a full meal without any sides. Every bite is rich with flavor that stands out on its own. It’s both easy to serve and impressive enough for special dinners. Whether paired with wine or enjoyed solo, this salmon brings plenty to the table by itself.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

Air Fryer Shrimp

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

Crispy outside and juicy inside, Air Fryer Shrimp is a dependable go-to when you want something quick and filling. They hold their texture and flavor perfectly without needing anything alongside them. Great for snacking or simple dinners, each bite stands on its own. Light but delicious, they always feel complete without effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Grilled Salmon

A close-up of a cooked salmon fillet topped with a mixture of chopped herbs, garlic, and seasonings.
Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Grilled Salmon offers rich flavor all by itself. The slight char adds depth while keeping the fish flaky and moist. Perfect for a solo meal or sharing at gatherings, it doesn’t need anything extra on the plate. Easy to cook and full of flavor, this salmon stays consistent every time it’s made.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

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.

Crispy bites with a flavorful kick make Bang Bang Shrimp a dish that’s complete on its own. They’re bold with every bite while staying surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for both casual meals and a little something special, they don’t need any extras alongside them. Always reliable, this shrimp is a favorite every time.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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.

Soft noodles mixed with smoky fish make Tuna Noodle Casserole an unbeatable one-dish dinner. It’s filling with just the right texture to stand alone without any sides. Simple to make and great for leftovers, it’s ideal for busy days. This casserole holds together perfectly and never feels like it’s missing anything.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Shrimp Fried Rice

A red plate of shrimp fried rice garnished with chopped green onions, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Shrimp Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Smoky shrimp blended into fluffy rice makes Shrimp Fried Rice a hearty dish that skips the need for extras. Every bite brings out a combination of textures that stays balanced and interesting. Whether for quick meals or last-minute gatherings, it always feels complete. This dish is easy to prepare and works just as well for leftovers the next day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp 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.

Smooth and smoky, Salmon Deviled Eggs pack bold flavor into a small, pleasing bite. They work well as appetizers or as a whole plate option without any extras. Easy to serve and suitable for all kinds of occasions, they’re a quick way to bring plenty of flavor. Whether for picnics or family snacks, these eggs never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

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.

Crispy shrimp wrapped in soft rice makes Shrimp Tempura Roll feel like a complete meal in every bite. It’s simple yet packed with textures that keep it interesting without needing sides. Perfect for both casual meals and entertaining, these rolls stand out on their own. Once served, they’re the kind of dish that disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

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.

Smoky shrimp paired with soft noodles delivers everything you need for a full plate in Thai Drunken Noodles. The bold flavors create a dish that feels complete without anything else. Perfect for fast dinners, they pack in rich flavor while staying light enough to enjoy without fuss. Once on the table, it’s easy to keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Shrimp Tempura

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

Golden and crispy, Shrimp Tempura stands out as a dish that doesn’t need any extras. The shrimp holds its texture perfectly inside the crunchy shell, keeping each bite light but filling. Great for casual snacks or gatherings, it adds a touch of bold, simple flavor. Prep is easy, but the flavorful result is what makes tempura a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Grilled Lobster Tail

Cooked lobster tail with herbs and seasoning served on a white plate.
Grilled Lobster Tail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Smoky char enhances the richness in Grilled Lobster Tail, making it a dish that feels extravagant all on its own. The tender meat absorbs the grill’s flavor, creating a plate that stands out without sides. It’s perfect for serving something special but doesn’t require much prep. Straightforward and bold, lobster tail always feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lobster Tail

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.

Crispy outside with rich seafood flavors inside, Maryland Crab Cake is a dish that’s delicious on its own. It’s hearty without feeling heavy, making it easy to enjoy as a full meal. Quick to prepare, it combines simplicity with bold flavor. Great for adding to gatherings or enjoying solo, crab cakes never lose their appeal.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

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.

Crisp bases topped with flavorful seafood make Crostini Appetizers an easy stand-alone dish. Each small bite holds enough texture and flavor to feel complete without extras. Perfect for casual brunches or sharing at parties, they work for all occasions. Simple yet packed with taste, they’re a go-to for quick but bold meals.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

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.

Creamy filling packed into a soft bun turns Lobster Roll into a complete handheld meal. The rich seafood flavor doesn’t need anything else to shine. Perfect for small meals or something to bring to gatherings, it holds up well on its own. With balanced textures in every bite, this roll keeps things simple and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

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.

Smoky fish with light toppings make Blackened Salmon Tacos a dish that’s ready to enjoy as is. Every taco offers bold flavors in a tidy, handheld bite that doesn’t need sides. Perfect for dinners or daytime meals, they’re quick to assemble and fulfilling to eat. With no fuss needed, these tacos speak for themselves every time.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon Tacos

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.

Chewy wrappers filled with light seafood make Rice Paper Rolls quick to prep and easy to enjoy. The fresh textures balance everything perfectly, offering all you need in each bite. Great for snacks or light meals, they don’t require anything extra to serve. Whether shared or kept for yourself, these rolls are always dependable.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

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, bold, and smoky, Tom Yum Soup works great as a standalone dish that’s filling and packed with flavor. No sides are needed as every spoonful has balanced textures and depth. Quick to prep and comforting from start to finish, it makes for an easy lunchtime or dinner option. It’s everything you need in one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

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.

Crispy bread paired with tender fish turns Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich into a complete, handheld meal. The balance of texture and flavor makes this sandwich stand out, with no extras needed. Great for quick snacks or meals on the go, it stays rewarding without being complex. This sandwich keeps things simple but bold at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

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.

Smoky shrimp combined with creamy dressing make Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing feel like a meal that brings everything together. The bold flavors and textures make extras on the side unnecessary. It’s fresh, filling, and great for busy days or gatherings. This salad feels hearty while staying light enough to enjoy without effort.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

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.

Warm and packed with seafood flavor, Sushi Bake is easy to enjoy without adding anything extra to the table. Its layered texture holds together perfectly and works well as a one-pan option. Great for both sharing or eating solo, it makes mealtime simple and satisfying. Perfect for prep or last-minute dinners, it’s always dependable.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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.

Crispy outsides with soft seafood-filled centers make Shrimp Toast a standout meal in bite-sized form. They’re easy to serve as a snack or full plate without any extras required. Great for gatherings, they hold their texture and flavor in every bite. Simple yet bold, shrimp toast is reliable for any occasion.
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.

Bold flavors mixed with hearty seafood make Kimchi Stew feel complete and comforting as a solo dish. Its depth of flavor and warmth don’t need much else to stand out. Perfect for both quick meals and prepping ahead, it’s versatile and packed with taste. Whether for lunch or dinner, this stew always leaves an impression.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

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.

Smoky shrimp paired with hearty toppings turns Shrimp Burrito Bowls into a meal worth repeating. Every bite is balanced and packed with enough texture to skip any need for sides. Great for busy nights or meal prep, it’s simple yet filling and delivers just the right amount of flavor. Once served, these bowls tend to go fast.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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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