11 Seafood Bbq Recipes For Summer That Are Light, Fresh, And Crowd-Pleasing

Seafood BBQ is the ultimate way to celebrate summer—bringing together the freshness of the ocean with the smoky, charred flavors of the grill. When the days grow longer and the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the barbecue with friends and family, serving dishes that are both satisfying and easy on the palate. These 11 seafood BBQ recipes perfectly capture the spirit of summer: light, vibrant, and packed with flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.

From tender grilled shrimp to flaky fish fillets and succulent scallops, these recipes are designed to be simple enough for casual cookouts yet impressive enough for weekend feasts. They showcase the best of seasonal ingredients, fresh herbs, and zesty marinades that complement the natural sweetness of seafood. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, tangy, or herbaceous, this collection has something to delight every taste bud.

As you explore these recipes, you’ll also find helpful tips on grilling techniques and flavor pairings that elevate your BBQ game. The combination of fresh seafood with smoky grill marks and light seasonings creates dishes that feel indulgent without weighing you down—perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want to enjoy good food and great company.

Get ready to fire up the grill and discover how easy it is to bring freshness and fun to your summer gatherings with these irresistible seafood BBQ recipes.

Herb-Crusted Grilled Salmon

Herb-Crusted Grilled Salmon is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with a fresh herb crust, creating a meal that’s light and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

With a mix of herbs like parsley and thyme, each bite is bursting with freshness. The grilling adds a subtle smokiness, enhancing the salmon’s natural taste. Serve it with lemon wedges for a zesty finish, and you have a dish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the salmon fillets with the herb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from the grill and serve with lemon wedges.

Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Grilled lemon garlic shrimp skewers are a delightful option for summer gatherings. These skewers are light, fresh, and bursting with flavor, making them a perfect choice for any outdoor barbecue. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant garlic elevates the natural sweetness of the shrimp, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Making these shrimp skewers is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. You can have them marinated and grilled in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the sun and less time in the kitchen. Pair them with a crisp salad or serve alongside grilled veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Skewers (if using wooden ones, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
4. Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Grilled Shrimp & Avocado Salad

This Grilled Shrimp & Avocado Salad is a perfect dish for summer gatherings. The combination of juicy grilled shrimp and creamy avocado creates a refreshing meal that is light yet satisfying. With the bright flavors of fresh herbs and crisp greens, it’s sure to please everyone at your BBQ!

Making this salad is a breeze! In just a few simple steps, you can have a vibrant dish ready to impress your guests. It’s not only quick to prepare, but it also gives you the chance to enjoy the flavors of summer while keeping things healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 avocados, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens (like arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.
4. In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed greens, grilled shrimp, and avocado slices.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top, drizzle with more lime juice if desired, and serve immediately.

Cilantro Lime Grilled Scallops

Cilantro Lime Grilled Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that brings together the fresh flavors of lime and cilantro. Lightly charred on the grill, these scallops are both juicy and tender, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfect for summer cookouts, they make a fantastic appetizer or a light main dish.

This recipe is simple and quick, making it a great option for those spontaneous BBQ nights. Just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the grill are all you need to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 lb scallops (fresh or thawed)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Marinate the Scallops: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the scallops and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Scallops: Place the scallops on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook!
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy immediately, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

BBQ Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter

Grilling lobster tails is a fantastic way to impress your guests while keeping things light and fresh. The combination of succulent lobster meat with rich garlic butter creates a flavor that’s simply irresistible. This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both seasoned grillers and beginners alike.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a crowd-pleasing dish that captures the essence of summer. The smoky char from the grill complements the natural sweetness of the lobster, ensuring every bite is delightful. Let’s get into what you’ll need and how to make this delicious BBQ lobster tail!

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Using kitchen scissors, cut the top shell of the lobster tails down the center, stopping before you reach the tail. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the lobster meat.
3. In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat.
5. Place the lobster tails on the grill, shell-side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes. When the meat is opaque and slightly charred, remove from the grill.
6. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the grilled lobster tails and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Spicy Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Spicy grilled fish tacos with mango salsa offer a fresh and lively take on summer dining. These tacos are a delightful blend of tender, flaky fish seasoned with zesty spices, complemented by a sweet and tangy mango salsa that adds a burst of flavor. Perfect for gatherings, they are simple to prepare and sure to impress your friends and family.

The combination of grilled fish and vibrant salsa creates a dish that’s both light and satisfying. The tacos are quick to make, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests while savoring every bite of this tasty treat!

Ingredients

• 1 lb firm white fish (like tilapia or mahi-mahi)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Optional: avocado slices for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this spice mixture onto the fish fillets.
2. Grill the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and easily flaked with a fork.
3. While the fish is grilling, prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
4. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Once the fish is ready, flake it into bite-sized pieces and assemble the tacos by placing the fish in the tortillas, topping with mango salsa. Add avocado slices if desired. Serve immediately.

Charred Octopus with Paprika

Charred octopus is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the sea straight to your grill! The smoky flavor from the charring pairs perfectly with the warm, earthy notes of paprika, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for summer barbecues and gatherings.

This recipe not only works as a standout main course but also makes for a fantastic appetizer that will impress your guests. The combination of tender octopus and a hint of citrus elevates the dish, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound octopus, cleaned
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Octopus: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the octopus and cook for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Once cooked, remove from water and let it cool.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled octopus to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated octopus on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until charred and crispy.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Zesty BBQ Clams with Chorizo

Zesty BBQ clams with chorizo are a delightful dish that perfectly combines the briny flavor of fresh clams with the spicy kick of chorizo. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to whip up, making it a fantastic option for summer gatherings. The smokiness from the grill pairs wonderfully with the savory chorizo, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress your guests.

Cooking these clams is a breeze; they come together quickly and require minimal prep time. As they grill, the clams open up, allowing their juices to mingle with the chorizo, resulting in a rich, flavorful bite that’s light yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 dozen fresh clams, scrubbed
• 8 ounces chorizo, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced chorizo until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. In a large bowl, combine the clams, chorizo mixture, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the clams.
4. Place the clams on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they open up. Discard any that remain closed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges.

Smoky BBQ Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa

This smoky BBQ mahi-mahi is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings. The fish is grilled to perfection, offering a slightly charred exterior while remaining moist and flaky inside. Paired with a refreshing pineapple salsa, each bite bursts with a sweet and tangy flavor that balances the smokiness of the fish.

Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that showcases light, fresh ingredients. It’s a fantastic option for those warm evenings when you want something that’s both satisfying and healthy!

Ingredients

• 4 mahi-mahi fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the mahi-mahi fillets with the marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes.
2. Make the Salsa: Combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a separate bowl. Mix well and set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Fish: Place the marinated mahi-mahi on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and has distinct grill marks.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled mahi-mahi and top it generously with pineapple salsa. Enjoy immediately!

Coconut Curry Grilled Shrimp

Coconut Curry Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the tropical taste of coconut and the warm spices of curry in a simple and delicious way. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, as it offers a light and fresh flavor that everyone will love.

Grilling the shrimp enhances their natural sweetness while the coconut curry marinade infuses them with a rich, aromatic flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it a fantastic option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, red curry paste, lime juice, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, cover, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Mediterranean Grilled Sardines

Mediterranean grilled sardines are a delightful summer treat. These fish are packed with flavor and offer a light, fresh taste that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Grilling sardines is a simple process, making it an excellent option for a casual BBQ or a special gathering with friends and family.

With a few easy ingredients, you can elevate the natural taste of sardines, bringing out their rich umami flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, lemon, and a touch of olive oil creates a delicious dish that will impress everyone at your summer cookout.

Ingredients

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sardines: Rinse the sardines under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make a few diagonal cuts on each side to help them cook evenly.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Coat the sardines in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the sardines on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the sardines from the grill and serve hot with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your Mediterranean grilled sardines with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Final Thoughts
These 11 seafood BBQ recipes are your ticket to effortless summer dining that’s both healthy and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or a casual weeknight dinner, the bright flavors and light textures of grilled seafood will keep everyone happy and satisfied. Dive in and let the grill do the work while you enjoy the season’s best!