25 easy seafood dishes that aren’t your usual go-tos

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Seafood is such a versatile option, but it’s easy to fall into a routine of making the same dishes over and over. That’s why I’ve pulled together a collection of recipes that bring fresh ideas to your table without adding extra stress to your day. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or something a little different for special occasions, these dishes will make you see seafood in a whole new light.

Fork lifting a shrimp and pasta dish, with more food in the background.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Seafood Pasta Salad

Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This quick and refreshing salad combines pasta with seafood for a meal that’s light yet filling. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s easy to put together and offers a new spin on traditional pasta salads. Its creamy dressing and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. A great way to enjoy seafood in a way that feels both familiar and unexpected. It’s an excellent option when you want something simple but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This tuna melt is a warm, cheesy meal that comes together quickly in the air fryer. It’s a satisfying alternative to basic sandwiches, ideal for lunch or dinner. The crispy bread pairs wonderfully with the rich tuna filling. It’s a clever way to enjoy seafood in a casual and approachable format. A great choice for something that feels special without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Baked lemon butter fish fillet seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley,.
Baked Lemon Butter Fish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This baked fish dish is infused with lemon and butter for a bright, comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup. The baked method keeps it light while letting the fish shine. Perfect for a dinner that feels elegant yet approachable. It’s an excellent option for mixing up your seafood routine.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Bang Bang Shrimp

Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bang Bang Shrimp offers bold flavors with a crispy coating and creamy sauce. This recipe is quick to make, making it perfect for appetizers or a fun dinner option. The balance of textures and flavors ensures it stands out from the usual shrimp dishes. A great way to bring something exciting to your table. It’s sure to become a favorite when you’re looking for variety.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Salmon Salad

A grilled salmon fillet served on a bed of fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives on a white plate.
Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This fresh salad pairs tender salmon with crisp greens for a meal that’s both light and hearty. It’s a simple way to include seafood in your diet without feeling repetitive. Great for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner, it’s full of textures and flavors that keep it interesting. Easy to customize and prepare in advance, it fits seamlessly into busy schedules. A fantastic alternative to standard salads.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Baked salmon fillet with asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers on a white plate, garnished with herbs.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This one-pan dish pairs salmon with seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It’s perfect for busy nights, requiring minimal prep and cleanup. The combination of roasted flavors makes it a satisfying choice for any season. An easy way to include seafood while keeping things fresh and varied. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to keep meals simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bite-sized appetizers combine savory bacon with tender salmon for a fun and flavorful snack. They’re quick to prepare and work well for parties or casual dinners. The crispy bacon adds a layer of richness that complements the salmon perfectly. A creative twist on serving seafood in smaller portions. Perfect when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Seafood Pot Pie

Seafood Pot Pie in small pie dish.
Seafood Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This comforting pot pie is filled with a creamy seafood medley under a flaky crust. It’s an excellent way to showcase seafood in a dish that feels hearty and homey. Ideal for colder nights, it’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and serve. A great choice for those seeking something warm and satisfying with seafood as the star. It offers a fresh take on traditional pot pies.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pot Pie

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These skewers are a quick, flavorful way to enjoy shrimp with minimal prep. Perfect for grilling season, they bring a smoky, charred element that enhances the shrimp. Great for dinners or gatherings, they’re versatile enough to pair with different sides. A fun option for outdoor meals or simple weeknight dinners. A creative way to include shrimp in your rotation without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Crab Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.
Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Fried Rice is a fast, flavorful meal that combines seafood with a takeout favorite. It’s a convenient way to use up leftover rice while incorporating crab into your menu. The mix of textures and savory flavors makes it a standout dish for lunch or dinner. Easy to customize with vegetables or seasonings, it fits a variety of tastes. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pasta dish combines tender shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce for a comforting meal. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy evenings when you want something special. The combination of shrimp and pasta ensures it’s filling and flavorful without being heavy. A great way to enjoy seafood in a classic yet fresh format. This recipe is sure to add variety to your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Three grilled shrimp atop cucumber slices garnished with herbs on a white plate with a red checkered napkin partially in view.
Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bite-sized snacks pair crisp cucumber with shrimp for a refreshing, easy appetizer. Perfect for parties or light snacks, they’re quick to assemble and offer a unique presentation. The balance of textures makes them stand out from more traditional seafood dishes. A great option when you need something light but packed with flavor. Ideal for adding variety to any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Panko Crusted Cod

Panko-crusted cod fish on a plate with green beans.
Panko Crusted Cod. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This crispy cod dish features a golden panko coating for a satisfying crunch. It’s easy to make and works well for family dinners or casual gatherings. The cod stays moist and flaky, creating a balanced texture that’s sure to please. A great way to enjoy seafood without relying on frying. Perfect for switching up your go-to fish recipes.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

Fish Stew with Chorizo

A bowl of soup with sausage and fish.
Fish Stew with Chorizo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This hearty stew combines fish with smoky chorizo for a rich, warming meal. Perfect for cooler evenings, it’s a one-pot dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The blend of seafood and spice makes it a standout option when you want something a bit different. A comforting choice that works well with crusty bread or rice. Ideal for breaking away from more typical fish recipes.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

Crab Melt

Two plates of crab melt with sliced tomatoes and melted cheese, garnished with lemon slices on a white wooden surface.
Crab Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This quick meal combines crab with melted cheese on toasted bread for a warm and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner and comes together quickly with minimal effort. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it feel special without requiring much time. A great way to include seafood in a casual, approachable format. Perfect for when you want something different but not complicated.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These shrimp are wrapped in crispy bacon for a bite-sized treat that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for appetizers or quick snacks, they combine two flavors that work wonderfully together. The combination of textures makes them a standout option for gatherings or casual meals. A fun way to enjoy shrimp that feels fresh and unique. They’re simple but impressive enough for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Panko shrimp with dipping sauce.
Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This fried shrimp features a light and crispy panko coating for a snack or meal that’s full of texture. It’s quick to make and pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, these shrimp bring a fresh twist to fried seafood. A creative way to serve shrimp when you want something versatile and fun. Great for breaking up the usual seafood choices.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

A close-up image of a spoonful of creamy shrimp bisque garnished with herbs, hovering above the rest of the soup in a bowl.
Shrimp and Corn Bisque. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy bisque combines shrimp and sweet corn for a comforting, warm meal. Perfect for chilly days, it’s easy to prepare and feels hearty without being too heavy. The blend of flavors is both familiar and unexpected, making it stand out. Ideal for pairing with crusty bread or a light salad. A fantastic option for mixing up your usual seafood soup choices.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry in a bowl.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This stir-fry pairs shrimp with broccoli for a quick, healthy dinner that comes together in minutes. It’s a versatile dish that works well with rice or noodles and is easy to customize. The shrimp adds a fresh element to this classic combination. Great for weeknight meals when time is limited but you want something flavorful. A smart way to include seafood in your regular meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This shrimp scampi is a buttery, garlicky dish that’s perfect over pasta or with crusty bread. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the shrimp shine while still feeling like a complete meal. A great way to bring seafood into your menu without a lot of fuss. It’s sure to become a favorite when you need a reliable option.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.
Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pasta dish combines shrimp with fresh tomatoes for a light, flavorful meal. It’s quick to make and works well for dinner or meal prep. The balance of shrimp and tomatoes keeps it fresh while still feeling like a comforting choice. A great way to enjoy seafood in a dish that’s easy yet satisfying. Perfect for breaking up more traditional pasta recipes.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chilled salad combines shrimp and macaroni for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days. It’s easy to prepare and works well for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish. The creamy dressing ties it all together for a balanced, enjoyable option. A great way to enjoy shrimp in a dish that’s familiar but not overdone. Perfect for adding variety to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it.
Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This lemon butter sauce adds a bright, rich flavor to salmon that complements it beautifully. It’s quick to make and enhances the salmon without overpowering it. Perfect for pairing with vegetables or rice, it makes for an elegant yet simple meal. A great way to keep salmon exciting while staying easy to prepare. Ideal for breaking up more traditional preparations.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Salmon pasta Alfredo served on a white plate with lemon.
Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pasta dish pairs creamy Alfredo sauce with tender salmon for a comforting meal. It’s quick enough for weeknights but feels special enough for guests. The combination of flavors ensures it’s both rich and balanced. A great option when you want seafood in a dish that feels familiar but elevated. Perfect for switching up your usual pasta recipes.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Crab Rangoon Dip

A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip.
Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy dip brings all the flavors of crab Rangoon into an easy-to-make appetizer. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, it pairs well with crackers or vegetables. The rich, crab-filled base makes it a standout option for entertaining. A great way to enjoy seafood in a new and creative format. Ideal for mixing up your appetizer choices with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

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