The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a feast fit for kings and queens? This year, why not shake things up with some festive and delicious Christmas seafood recipes? From indulgent treats like Lobster Thermidor to lighter options like Pan-Seared Halibut with Lemon Caper Sauce, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking to treat your family to a special meal, these 18 mouth-watering dishes are sure to impress.
From classic clam chowder with bacon to more exotic options like Seafood Paella with Saffron, our collection of recipes is the perfect way to add some seafood flair to your holiday gatherings. And don’t worry – we’ve got something for everyone, from shrimp lovers to lobster enthusiasts and everything in between.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these delectable dishes, sharing tips, tricks, and secrets to help you bring them to life. So grab a glass of eggnog, get cozy by the fire, and let’s start cooking up some merry magic!
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Savor the rich flavors of succulent lobster tails smothered in a savory garlic butter sauce. This indulgent recipe is perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each lobster tail, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is opaque and flaky.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Salmon with Honey Mustard Glaze
A sweet and savory twist on classic baked salmon, this recipe adds a rich honey mustard glaze to elevate the flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and garlic until smooth.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
This recipe brings together the simplicity of linguine pasta and the rich flavor of garlic butter shrimp, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– 4 tablespoons (2/3 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent crab meat and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, butter, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the crab mixture, mounding slightly in center.
4. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Paella with Saffron
This classic Spanish dish is a flavorful and aromatic celebration of the Mediterranean coast, featuring succulent seafood and the prized golden threads of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add seafood; cook until pink and slightly browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Add saffron mixture, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add Arborio rice; stir to coat with liquid.
6. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Scallops with Lemon Herb Butter
Grilled Scallops with Lemon Herb Butter: A Bright and Flavorful Summer Treat
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of herbs, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with lemon juice, parsley, and chives.
5. Serve grilled scallops with a pat of lemon herb butter on top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Lobster Thermidor
Lobster Thermidor Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Lobster Thermidor recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat cooked to perfection in a creamy cognac sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) live lobster, steamed and cracked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Whisk in flour, then gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. If using cognac, add it now and stir to combine.
5. Add the lobster meat to the sauce and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the lobster mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Canapés
Elevate your party with these elegant and flavorful bite-sized treats. Smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill come together in perfect harmony to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 12 crackers or toasted baguette slices
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker or baguette slice.
3. Top with a small piece of smoked salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Clam Chowder with Bacon
Warm up with a comforting bowl of clam chowder infused with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can whole-berry cranberry sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups clam juice
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups diced clams (fresh or canned)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cranberry sauce, heavy cream, clam juice, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in clams and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Cod
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the delicate taste of cod. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Mix minced garlic and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
5. Sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful seafood-stuffed bell pepper recipe! This dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of shrimp, scallops, and crab.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and crab), cooked and flaked
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together seafood, cooked rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the seafood mixture and top with optional cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Prawn Cocktail with Avocado
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this recipe combines succulent prawns with creamy avocado for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Add the diced avocado and stir gently to combine.
3. Gently fold in the prawns until they are well coated with the avocado mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Pan-Seared Halibut with Lemon Caper Sauce
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of halibut paired with a bright and tangy lemon caper sauce, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the preheated pan and sear halibut for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove halibut from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice, capers, and garlic to the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve halibut with the lemon caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Savory crab cakes packed with flavor and a tangy remoulade sauce make for a delightful appetizer or main course. This recipe brings together the freshness of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay with the rich flavors of the Lowcountry.
Ingredients:
For the Crab Cakes:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into 6-8 patties. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, mix remoulade sauce ingredients in a bowl.
5. Serve crab cakes with remoulade sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter
Savor the sweet flavor of oysters with this simple and indulgent recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, shucked and reserved on half shell
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place oysters on the grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each shell.
4. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the oysters, making sure each one is coated.
5. Close the grill lid and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the oysters start to open.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Seafood Risotto with White Wine
A rich and flavorful seafood risotto infused with the essence of white wine, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups fish stock (or chicken stock)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and drained
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken stock in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine; stir until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of the warmed chicken stock to the rice; stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the stock in 1/2-cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Stir in the butter, seafood, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Tartare with Crispy Wontons
Tuna Tartare with Crispy Wontons: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Appetizer
This light and flavorful dish combines the richness of tuna tartare with the crunch of crispy wontons, perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Wonton wrappers (about 12-15)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and cilantro. Mix gently until combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Preheat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Cut wonton wrappers into small squares and fry in batches until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve tuna tartare with crispy wontons on top, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Baked Stuffed Lobster with Breadcrumbs
Treat your loved ones to a luxurious seafood experience with this recipe for baked stuffed lobster. Flaky lobster meat, savory breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices come together in a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 whole lobsters (1 1/2 pounds each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Twist off the lobsters’ tails and remove the meat, leaving the shells intact.
3. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each lobster tail with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly between the two.
5. Place the stuffed lobsters in their shells and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the sea this Christmas! This collection of 18 festive seafood recipes is sure to impress your guests. From succulent lobster tails with garlic butter to pan-seared halibut with lemon caper sauce, these dishes are perfect for a holiday feast. Other highlights include crab-stuffed mushrooms, shrimp scampi with linguine, and seafood paella with saffron. Whether you’re serving a small gathering or a large crowd, these recipes will help you create a memorable and delicious Christmas celebration.
