Are you looking for some inspiration to spice up your next gathering or party? Look no further! In this article, we’re diving into the world of seafood appetizers and sharing 18 irresistible recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From savory to sweet, and from classic to innovative, these dishes showcase the best of what the sea has to offer.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some new ideas to impress your guests, we’ve got you covered with our selection of mouthwatering appetizers that are perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the freshest flavors of the ocean!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these easy-to-make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Place skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dipping Sauce
This tropical twist on classic shrimp takes the simplicity of a weeknight dinner to new heights, with a crispy coconut coating and sweet and tangy mango dipping sauce. Perfect for a flavorful meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Dipping Sauce (see below)
Mango Dipping Sauce:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into melted butter, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve with Mango Dipping Sauce (simply mix all ingredients together).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Elevate your gatherings with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of smoked salmon with the coolness of cucumber. Perfect for a summer party or as an easy canapé.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 crackers or toasted baguette slices
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together smoked salmon, cream cheese, and chopped dill.
2. Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Spoon the salmon mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Top with a cracker or toasted baguette slice.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Tuna Tartare on Wonton Crisps
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and spicy tuna tartare, served atop crispy wonton chips. A perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade tuna
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton chips, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cut the tuna into small cubes and place in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the marinade over the tuna and gently fold to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Just before serving, place wonton chips on a plate and spoon the spicy tuna tartare on top.
Cooking Time: None
Lobster and Avocado Crostini
Lobster and Avocado Crostini: A Decadent Appetizer
Elevate your gatherings with this elegant, easy-to-make appetizer that combines the richness of lobster with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Meanwhile, cut avocados in half and remove pits.
6. Scoop out avocado flesh into a bowl and gently stir in cooked lobster meat.
7. Assemble crostini by spreading a small amount of the lobster-avocado mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
8. Garnish with parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the brininess of oysters with the brightness of fresh herbs and a pat of rich butter. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, shucked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, chives, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Place oysters on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely charred and slightly opened.
4. Spread a pat of herb butter onto each oyster, dividing it evenly among the group.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent crab stuffed mushroom recipe! Fresh mushrooms filled with a rich crab mixture make for the perfect bite-sized snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a paper towel and fill each cap with the crab mixture.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of the crab filling (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Lemon Aioli
This elegant dish combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the tangy creaminess of lemon aioli, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup lemon aioli (see below)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Serve immediately with lemon aioli spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Clam Casino Dip with Toasted Baguette
A flavorful and indulgent dip perfect for your next gathering or party. This creamy, cheesy delight combines the brininess of clams with the crunch of toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
– 1/4 cup canned clams, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices and toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, clams, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or mini cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with toasted baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panko-Fried Calamari with Marinara Sauce
Savor the tender texture of calamari coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, served with a tangy and rich marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each squid ring into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry calamari rings in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (including frying time)
Shrimp Ceviche in Mini Taco Shells
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the best of both worlds – shrimp ceviche and mini taco shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup diced mango
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mini taco shells (about 20-25)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and mango.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, drain the ceviche mixture and rinse the shrimp under cold water to remove excess lime juice.
4. Fill mini taco shells with the ceviche mixture, garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
Serves: 20-25 mini tacos
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Maple Glaze
This sweet and savory dish combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the smoky richness of bacon, all wrapped up in a sticky maple glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the maple syrup over the scallops and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with olive oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna Poke Nachos with Wonton Chips
Elevate your nacho game with this innovative recipe that combines the freshness of tuna poke with the crunch of wonton chips. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1 bag of wonton chips
– 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Optional: diced mango, avocado, or pickled ginger for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and ginger. Add the flaked tuna and mix until well combined.
2. Arrange wonton chips on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Spoon the tuna poke mixture over the wonton chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. If desired, add diced mango, avocado, or pickled ginger for added flavor.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Herbed Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful crab cakes infused with fresh herbs and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry crab cakes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer crab cakes to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Chimichurri
Grilled Octopus with Chimichurri: A flavorful and tender seafood dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chimichurri sauce (recipe below)
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove octopus from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve with Chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese Bites
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of succulent lobster meat. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a special occasion or as a indulgent snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup lobster meat, diced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Panko breadcrumbs for coating
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, lobster meat, egg, lemon juice, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. When ready to bake, coat each tablespoon of the macaroni mixture with Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray or brush with oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Mussels in Garlic White Wine Sauce
This recipe combines the brininess of mussels with the richness of garlic and white wine, finished with a spicy kick from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water and remove any broken shells.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add white wine and bring to a simmer.
4. Add mussels, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until mussels are open.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seafood Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and spicy seafood-stuffed jalapeños. A perfect combination of textures and tastes, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeños
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, crab meat, shrimp, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the seafood mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 irresistible seafood appetizer recipes! From Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers and Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dipping Sauce, to Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites and Spicy Tuna Tartare on Wonton Crisps, there’s something for every occasion. Other standout dishes include Lobster and Avocado Crostini, Grilled Oysters with Herb Butter, and Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Maple Glaze. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself, these recipes are sure to delight!