13 Summer Seafood Slow Cooker Recipes Perfect For Lazy Days And Light Dinners

Summer calls for meals that are as easygoing as the season itself—light, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors without demanding hours in the kitchen. That’s where seafood shines, especially when paired with the convenience of a slow cooker. These 13 summer seafood slow cooker recipes offer a perfect solution for those laid-back days when you want delicious, healthy meals with minimal effort.

Imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of tender fish, succulent shrimp, or hearty shellfish, all cooked to perfection while you’ve been out enjoying the sunshine. From zesty seafood stews and fragrant chowders to simple garlic butter dishes and flavorful curries, these recipes embrace the best of summer’s bounty and the ease of slow cooking. Each dish balances freshness and depth, letting natural flavors shine through with the gentle coaxing of slow heat.

Whether you’re looking to impress family and friends with a fuss-free dinner or want to savor a light meal after a day at the beach, this collection has you covered. Along with step-by-step guidance, you’ll find tips for selecting the freshest seafood and clever ingredient combinations that make every bite memorable.

So, get your slow cooker ready, and let these recipes take the work out of your summer meals. With these 13 seafood ideas, you’ll enjoy effortless cooking and a taste of the ocean all season long.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Rice Bowl

This Cilantro Lime Shrimp Rice Bowl is a refreshing and light dish perfect for summer. With juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, and a zesty lime dressing, it brings a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s simple to make, making it a go-to for those lazy days when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

The combination of cilantro and lime adds a bright touch that complements the shrimp beautifully. Topped with avocado and bell peppers, this bowl is not only delicious but also colorful and fun to eat. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seafood without any fuss!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is just what you need! This dish brings together the fresh flavors of shrimp and asparagus, all enhanced with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s light, refreshing, and just perfect for those warm summer evenings.

Not only does this recipe pack a punch in the flavor department, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it! In no time, you’ll have a delightful meal that feels fancy without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnishing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Mix Ingredients: Place the shrimp and asparagus in the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over them, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the shrimp are opaque and the asparagus is tender.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Seafood Stew

This Mediterranean seafood stew is a delightful and light dish that perfectly captures the fresh flavors of summer. With its mix of shrimp, fish, and a savory broth, it’s both comforting and refreshing, making it ideal for lazy days. Plus, it’s super easy to make; just set it and forget it in your slow cooker!

The harmonious blend of tomatoes, herbs, and spices creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that complements the seafood beautifully. You can customize it with your favorite fish and shellfish, and it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound white fish fillets (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups vegetable or seafood broth
• 1 cup small potatoes, quartered
• 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, broth, potatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
2. Add the chunks of fish and shrimp on top, gently pushing them into the liquid.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender and the seafood is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Slow-Cooked Clam Chowder

Slow-cooked clam chowder is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your kitchen. The creamy base combined with tender clams and savory seasonings creates a delightful balance of taste that’s perfect for summer evenings. This recipe is not only simple but also allows you to set it and forget it, making it ideal for those lazy days.

The chowder simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. With a hint of smokiness from bacon and the freshness of herbs, this bowl of chowder is sure to impress your family or guests.

Ingredients

• 4 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams, undrained
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped clams (with juice), diced potatoes, corn, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir well.
4. Season: Add the chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnishing with additional parsley and bacon if desired. Enjoy your warm and hearty clam chowder!

Creamy Coconut Curry Fish

Creamy Coconut Curry Fish is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors right to your dinner table. It combines the rich creaminess of coconut milk with aromatic spices, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and light. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner and perfect for lazy summer days.

The fish becomes incredibly tender as it slow cooks, soaking up all the lovely flavors from the curry. Paired with rice or crusty bread, it makes for a bright and flavorful dining experience. You’ll love how easy it is to whip this up, allowing you to kick back and relax while it simmers away!

Ingredients

• 1 pound white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Curry Base: In the slow cooker, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and vegetable broth. Stir well to mix.
2. Add the Fish: Place the fish fillets in the slow cooker, making sure they are submerged in the curry base. Top with chopped bell peppers.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.
4. Serve: Spoon the curry into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy it with rice or crusty bread!

Spicy Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Spicy fish tacos with mango salsa are a refreshing way to savor summer flavors. These tacos bring a delightful combination of zesty fish, sweet mango, and crunchy veggies, making them perfect for a light dinner or a casual lunch. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the sunny weather.

The crispy fish pairs beautifully with the vibrant mango salsa, delivering a mix of spicy and sweet that dances on your palate. With minimal prep work and a slow cooker doing most of the heavy lifting, you’ll find this recipe is not just tasty but also incredibly convenient for lazy summer days.

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced mango
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Season the Fish: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the fish fillets.
2. Slow Cook: Place the seasoned fish in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Make the Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix the diced mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir gently to combine.
4. Warm the Tortillas: In a skillet, warm the tortillas over medium heat until they are pliable.
5. Assemble: Layer the fish on each tortilla, top with mango salsa, and serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Tomato Basil Seafood Pasta

Tomato Basil Seafood Pasta is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. It’s light, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for lazy evenings. This recipe is easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender seafood creates a harmonious blend that’s sure to please. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can kick back and relax while the aromas fill your home.

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb scallops
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a slow cooker, combine cherry tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
3. Add Seafood: Place the shrimp and scallops on top of the sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until seafood is cooked through.
4. Combine: Once cooked, add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and gently mix to combine all ingredients. Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
5. Serve: Enjoy warm with a sprinkle of extra basil on top!

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a delicious and simple dish perfect for summer evenings. With a rich garlic butter sauce, the sweet and succulent lobster meat shines through, making it a real treat without much fuss in the kitchen.

This recipe is quick to prepare and allows you to enjoy a taste of the sea, right at home. The combination of butter, garlic, and a hint of lemon elevates the natural flavors of the lobster, making it a favorite for light dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 lobster tails
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut the tops of the lobster tails down the center. Gently pull the meat up through the slit to create a small opening.
2. Make Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Stir until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Season: Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster meat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Slow Cook: Place the lobster tails in your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Zesty Lemon Dill Salmon

Bright, fresh, and super easy to make, this Zesty Lemon Dill Salmon is perfect for those lazy summer days. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant dill elevates the salmon, making it a light and vibrant dish that’s sure to impress. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Simply throw the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you relax. The salmon comes out tender and infused with lemony goodness, making it a delightful choice for a light meal.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (one sliced, one juiced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil.
2. Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Top with lemon slices and sprinkle with fresh dill.
3. Add Broth: Pour the vegetable broth around the salmon, being careful not to wash off the seasonings.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Carefully remove the salmon and serve with extra lemon slices and dill, if desired.

Buffalo Shrimp Sliders

Buffalo shrimp sliders are a fantastic way to enjoy a burst of flavor without the fuss of a lengthy cooking process. These little sandwiches pack a spicy kick from buffalo sauce, combined with the tender sweetness of shrimp, all nestled between soft slider buns. Perfect for lazy summer evenings, they offer a delightful balance of heat and taste, making them a crowd-pleaser for any casual gathering.

Making these sliders is incredibly simple. Just throw the shrimp in your slow cooker with some buffalo sauce and let it do all the work. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer or a light dinner. Pair these sliders with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for a creamy contrast that rounds out the flavors perfectly!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a slow cooker, combine the shrimp, buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the shrimp are cooked through and tender.
3. Assemble Sliders: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to place shrimp onto slider buns. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired!

Sweet and Sour Pineapple Fish

This Sweet and Sour Pineapple Fish recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of summer. The fish is tender and flaky, paired with juicy pineapple and colorful vegetables that add a refreshing crunch. It’s a light dish that’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to for lazy days when you want something simple yet satisfying.

The sweet and tangy sauce brings everything together, creating a delicious balance that will please your taste buds. Plus, cooking it in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax. It’s a meal that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
• 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks in juice
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Layer the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, layer the sliced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Place the fish fillets on top, followed by the pineapple chunks.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the fish and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Gently stir to combine before serving. Enjoy this tropical dish with rice or quinoa!

Herbed Fish with Seasonal Vegetables

This Herbed Fish with Seasonal Vegetables recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh seafood during those lazy summer days. It’s light, nutritious, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a quick dinner. The combination of seasonal vegetables adds a vibrant touch, and the herbs elevate the taste without overwhelming the dish. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare in your slow cooker, leaving you with more time to relax.

The fish becomes tender and flaky, absorbing the essence of the herbs and the freshness of the vegetables. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with family, it’s a meal that feels special without requiring much effort. Get ready to savor the taste of summer with this easy yet satisfying dish!

Ingredients

• 2 fillets of your favorite white fish (like cod or tilapia)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a slow cooker, add the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans. Spread them evenly across the bottom.
2. Season the Fish: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, dill, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub this mixture over the fish fillets.
3. Add to Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned fish fillets on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 3-4 hours, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve: Once cooked, carefully serve the fish and vegetables on plates, drizzling any leftover sauce from the slow cooker over the top. Enjoy!

Cajun Crab and Corn Chowder

This Cajun Crab and Corn Chowder is a delightful mix of flavors that brings a taste of the bayou to your kitchen. It’s creamy, slightly spicy, and packed with sweet corn and tender crab meat, making it an ideal choice for a light summer dinner. Plus, it’s a breeze to make in your slow cooker—perfect for those lazy days when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of Cajun spices adds a warm kick, while the corn gives it a nice crunch and sweetness. This chowder is not just a meal; it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, and you have a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups vegetable or seafood broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, combine the crab meat, corn, onion, garlic, and potatoes.
2. Pour in the broth and stir in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through.
5. Serve hot, topped with sliced green onions.

Final Thoughts
These 13 summer seafood slow cooker recipes bring together the best of both worlds—fresh, light seafood dishes made simple and stress-free. Perfect for lazy days and easy dinners, they invite you to savor summer’s flavors without heating up the kitchen or sacrificing time outdoors. Dive in and discover your new favorite go-to meals for a season of relaxed, delicious dining.