12 Seafood Grilling Recipes To Fire Up Your Memorial Day Cookout

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a sizzling, smoky, seafood-filled cookout? Grilling seafood is a game-changer—it locks in juicy tenderness, adds irresistible char, and infuses every bite with the essence of the open flame. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to switch up the usual burgers-and-dogs routine, these 12 grilling recipes will turn your backyard into a coastal-inspired feast.

Imagine plump, garlic-butter shrimp skewered and kissed by the grill until they’re perfectly pink and slightly caramelized. Or picture a whole cedar-plank salmon, its flesh flaky and infused with smoky wood and lemon-herb aromas. From spicy Cajun grilled oysters to tender, lime-marinated swordfish steaks, these recipes bring bold flavors and effortless elegance to your holiday spread. Even better? Most come together in minutes, leaving you more time to relax with friends, cold drink in hand.

We’ve included something for every taste—easy crowd-pleasers like grilled lobster tails with drawn butter, zesty fish tacos with charred pineapple salsa, and even a showstopping seafood paella cooked right on the grill. Plus, pro tips on avoiding sticking, nailing doneness, and pairing the perfect sauces to make your seafood shine. So fire up the coals, grab your tongs, and get ready to serve a Memorial Day meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and anything but ordinary.

Grilled Calamari with Lemon and Parsley

Grilled calamari is a fantastic seafood dish that brings a burst of flavor from the grill, making it perfect for summer cookouts. The tender squid is enhanced by a zesty lemon marinade and fresh parsley, creating a light and refreshing taste that pairs well with any side dish.

This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned chefs and beginners. You can enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, and it’s sure to impress your guests at your Memorial Day gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh calamari, cleaned
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper until combined.
2. Marinate the Calamari: Place the cleaned calamari in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using skewers, thread the calamari onto them for easier grilling.
4. Grill the Calamari: Place the calamari on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Grilled Scallops with Garlic and Chive Butter

Grilled scallops are a fantastic way to impress your guests this Memorial Day. Tender and juicy, these scallops are infused with a delightful garlic and chive butter that elevates their natural sweetness. The easy preparation makes them perfect for any backyard cookout.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only tastes gourmet but also looks stunning on the plate. The char from the grill adds a lovely smoky flavor, while the buttery sauce ties everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the Scallops: Place the scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should develop a nice grill mark and be opaque all the way through.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the scallops from the grill and immediately top each one with a dollop of the garlic and chive butter. Enjoy warm!

Chipotle Lime Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

Chipotle lime grilled shrimp tostadas offer a burst of flavor that’s perfect for any cookout. The succulent shrimp, marinated in a zesty chipotle-lime mix, are grilled to perfection, creating a delightful smoky taste. Topped on crispy tostadas with creamy goodness and fresh toppings, these bites are not just tasty but also easy to whip up in no time!

The combination of smoky, spicy, and tangy notes makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. Plus, with minimal prep and cook time, you can spend more time relaxing with friends and family during your Memorial Day gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons chipotle powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 tostada shells
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chipotle powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
3. Assemble the Tostadas: Spread a layer of sour cream over each tostada shell. Top with grilled shrimp and slices of avocado.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and serve immediately, enjoying the fresh, spicy flavors!

Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

Grilling lobster tails is a fantastic way to elevate your cookout. These tender tails soak up the rich flavors of garlic butter, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. Perfectly grilled, they offer a delightful contrast of smoky and buttery tastes that seafood lovers will cherish.

Cooking lobster tails may sound tricky, but it’s surprisingly simple. With just a few ingredients and some grilling time, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to a delicious meal. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Using kitchen scissors, cut the top of the lobster shell down the center, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the meat out of the shell and lay it on top.
2. Make the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the Lobster: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat.
4. Grill the Lobster: Place the lobster tails on the grill, flesh side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, then flip and brush more garlic butter. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and drizzle with any leftover garlic butter. Enjoy your delicious grilled lobster tails!

Cajun Blackened Salmon Fillets

Cajun blackened salmon fillets are a fantastic way to spice up your cookout. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Cajun seasoning and the fresh taste of salmon, creating a dish that’s both savory and a bit smoky. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for your Memorial Day gathering.

The blackened seasoning creates a delicious crust, while the salmon remains tender and juicy inside. Pair it with a squeeze of fresh lemon for added brightness, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil and generously coat with Cajun seasoning on all sides.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and charred.
4. Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs.

Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

Grilled lemon herb shrimp skewers are a quick and delightful dish perfect for summer cookouts. With a burst of fresh lemon and vibrant herbs, they bring a bright flavor that complements the juicy shrimp beautifully. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a gathering with friends and family.

The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade that soaks into the shrimp, making each bite tender and flavorful. They cook quickly on the grill, giving you more time to enjoy the sunshine and good company. Serve these skewers with a side salad or some grilled veggies for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
5. Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Spicy Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Spicy grilled fish tacos make for a refreshing and zesty addition to any cookout. The combination of flaky fish and vibrant mango salsa creates a delicious balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, these tacos are simple to whip up, making them perfect for a laid-back Memorial Day gathering.

The grilled fish is seasoned with a delightful mix of spices that adds a nice kick, while the mango salsa brings a sweet and tangy element to the dish. Wrapped in warm tortillas, these tacos are sure to impress your guests and elevate your summer grilling game!

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like tilapia or mahi-mahi)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the fish fillets.
3. Grill the fish for about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through and flaky.
4. While the fish is grilling, prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
5. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing a piece of grilled fish on each tortilla and topping with mango salsa. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Herbed Grilled Swordfish Steaks

Herbed grilled swordfish steaks offer a delightful meal that’s perfect for any cookout. The combination of fresh herbs brings a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the mild, meaty texture of swordfish. Plus, this recipe is simple to prepare, making it a go-to choice for both novice and seasoned grillers.

The grilling process enhances the natural flavor of the swordfish while infusing it with the aromatic essence of herbs. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, making it an excellent choice for your Memorial Day gathering.

Ingredients

• 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the swordfish steaks, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Steaks: Place the marinated swordfish on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Remove the swordfish from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Tuna Steaks

If you’re looking for a tasty, simple dish to impress your guests at the cookout, Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Tuna Steaks are a great choice! These steaks are not only flavorful but also quick to prepare, making them a perfect addition to your Memorial Day festivities.

The combination of the sweet and savory teriyaki glaze complements the rich, meaty texture of the tuna wonderfully. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious seafood dish that everyone will love.

Zesty Grilled Fish with Citrus Salsa

This zesty grilled fish recipe is a fantastic way to kick off your Memorial Day cookout! Bursting with fresh flavors, the fish is perfectly grilled to flaky perfection and topped with a vibrant citrus salsa that adds a refreshing twist. It’s simple to prepare and makes for a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.

The combination of the grilled fish with the zesty salsa creates a light and flavorful meal perfect for warm weather. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the sunshine and less time in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (such as mahi-mahi or tilapia)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 orange, zested and juiced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rub the fish fillets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the Fish: Place the fillets directly on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice, and orange zest and juice. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
4. Serve: Once the fish is cooked, plate it and generously top with the citrus salsa. Enjoy your zesty grilled fish with your favorite sides!

Honey Garlic Grilled Prawns

Honey garlic grilled prawns make for a delightful dish that’s both sweet and savory. The marinade, combining honey and garlic, infuses the prawns with rich flavors while adding a beautiful glaze when grilled. This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress your guests.

Perfect for any cookout, these prawns not only taste great but also cook quickly. You can whip them up in no time, making them an ideal choice for a busy Memorial Day cookout. Serve with a fresh salad or on skewers for that classic barbecue charm!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice.
2. Add the prawns to the marinade and toss to coat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the prawns onto skewers if desired.
4. Grill the prawns for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.
5. Remove from the grill, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers

These Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers are a delightful and fresh option for your Memorial Day cookout. The combination of succulent shrimp and colorful veggies makes for a visually appealing and tasty dish that is easy to prepare. With a zesty marinade, these skewers are bursting with flavor and perfect for the grill.

Gather friends and family around for a simple yet impressive meal that takes minimal effort. Marinate the shrimp and veggies ahead of time, then let the grill do the work. Serve these skewers with a side of garlic sauce or tzatziki for an added touch of Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and let sit for 20-30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy warm, optionally with a side of garlic sauce or tzatziki.

Final Thoughts
Grilled seafood is the ultimate way to kick off summer—light yet satisfying, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress. These 12 recipes prove that cooking over an open flame can transform simple seafood into something extraordinary. Whether you go for classic lemon-garlic shrimp or adventurous chili-lime octopus, your Memorial Day cookout will be one to remember. So dust off the grill, stock up on ice, and get ready to feast on the best seafood summer has to offer. Happy grilling!