14 Must-Try Memorial Day Seafood Recipes To Impress Your Guests

14 Must-Try Memorial Day Seafood Recipes To Impress Your Guests—Memorial Day is all about celebrating the start of summer, and there’s no better way to do that than with a fresh, flavorful seafood feast. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a family gathering by the beach, these seafood recipes will surely be the star of your Memorial Day menu. From grilled shrimp skewers to delicate fish fillets, these dishes offer a variety of flavors that will satisfy seafood lovers and newcomers alike.

Seafood is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it the perfect choice for any Memorial Day celebration. These 14 recipes feature seasonal ingredients like fresh herbs, citrus, and smoky marinades, bringing out the natural flavors of the seafood while keeping things light and refreshing. Each recipe is designed to be easy to prepare, making it simple to feed a crowd and impress your guests with minimal effort.

Cajun Shrimp Scampi

Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring succulent shrimp coated in a spicy and zesty sauce. Bursting with flavors from garlic, lemon, and Cajun spices, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a Memorial Day gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and pleasing aroma.

Not only does this recipe pack a punch with its lively flavors, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes! Serve it over pasta or rice for a complete meal, and watch as everyone digs in for seconds. For more detailed instructions, check out this Cajun Shrimp Scampi recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
5. Serve: Plate the dish and enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp Scampi!

Shrimp Stir Fry

This Shrimp Stir Fry is a colorful and tasty dish that brings a burst of flavors to your Memorial Day gathering. It’s quick to make, perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy shrimp and vibrant vegetables creates a delightful mix that’s both satisfying and healthy.

The stir fry is not only delicious but also super easy to customize. You can tweak the veggies and sauce to suit your taste, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Try pairing it with rice or noodles, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, around 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Return the shrimp to the pan. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and water, then pour over the shrimp and vegetables.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles and enjoy!

For more details, check out this Shrimp Stir Fry recipe.

Shrimp And Broccoli Stir Fry

Looking for a quick and tasty dish that will wow your guests? This shrimp and broccoli stir fry is a perfect choice! It’s light, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal option for a Memorial Day gathering. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp broccoli, tossed in a savory sauce, creates a delicious meal that’s easy to whip up.

Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also brings vibrant colors and textures to your table. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it over rice or noodles, making it a hit for everyone. Check out this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe to impress your friends and family!

Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful seafood dish that blends tender shrimp with creamy, rich Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is perfect for impressing guests at your Memorial Day gathering with its delicious flavors and elegant presentation.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the shrimp beautifully. If you’re looking to elevate your menu, this Shrimp Alfredo is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Healthy Salmon Bowls

These Healthy Salmon Bowls are a delicious and nutritious way to celebrate Memorial Day. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender salmon, and flavorful grains, they offer a vibrant combination of tastes that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for outdoor gatherings or family dinners.

With the smoky flavor of the grilled salmon complemented by zesty lime and a hint of sweetness from the sauce, each bite is a delightful experience. Customize your bowl with your favorite toppings and ingredients, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. For a simple yet impressive recipe, follow the instructions below. You can find more details in this healthy salmon bowl recipe.

Quick & Flavorful Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon is an excellent choice for a quick and tasty dish that will impress your guests. With a perfect balance of smoky flavor and the freshness of herbs, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy option for your Memorial Day gathering.

The subtle hints of lemon and herbs enhance the natural richness of the salmon, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s quick to cook, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests while still serving up something delicious. Check out this quick recipe for grilled salmon that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over the salmon. Seal and marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. Grill the salmon for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious grilled salmon!

Easy Baked Salmon

Easy Baked Salmon is a perfect dish for any gathering, especially for Memorial Day. This recipe brings out the natural flavors of the salmon, enhanced by simple seasoning and fresh ingredients. The taste is light and refreshing, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests.

What makes this dish so appealing is its simplicity. You can have it ready to serve in no time, letting you focus on enjoying the day with friends and family. Pair it with some vibrant veggies for a colorful presentation and a healthy meal. For a detailed guide, check out this easy baked salmon recipe.

Tilapia With Shrimp

Tilapia with shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that’s perfect for any gathering, especially on Memorial Day. This recipe combines the mild, flaky texture of tilapia with succulent shrimp, resulting in a meal that’s both fresh and satisfying. The creamy sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the seafood beautifully, making it a hit with guests of all ages.

What’s great about this dish is how simple it is to prepare. You can have it on the table in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your company rather than being stuck in the kitchen. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of rice and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices for that extra touch.

Check out the recipe here!

Ingredients

• 2 tilapia fillets
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper, then cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Return the tilapia to the skillet, spooning the sauce and shrimp over the fish. Allow it to warm through for a couple of minutes.
5. Serve the tilapia topped with shrimp and sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Tilapia With Tomato

This Tilapia with Tomato recipe is a delightful dish that combines flaky fish with bright, fresh flavors. The combination of juicy tomatoes and olives creates a savory sauce that complements the tender tilapia beautifully. It’s simple to make, making it a great option for a busy day or for impressing guests at your Memorial Day gathering.

The dish is not only satisfying but also healthy, offering a light yet flavorful meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you serve it with rice or a light salad, your guests will surely be impressed by this tasty seafood option. For the full recipe, check out this link.

Shrimp Tacos With Cabbage Slaw

These shrimp tacos are a perfect blend of zesty flavors and crunchy textures, making them a delightful choice for Memorial Day gatherings. The succulent shrimp, marinated in spices, pair beautifully with the fresh cabbage slaw, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, ensuring you spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

Each bite delivers a punch of flavor from the seasoned shrimp, balanced by the crispness of the slaw and the creaminess of the sauce. This easy shrimp taco recipe is a sure way to impress your guests and leave them asking for more!

Crab-Stuffed Baked Shrimp

Crab-Stuffed Baked Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that impresses both in taste and presentation. The combination of tender shrimp and rich crab filling creates a flavor explosion, making it a perfect choice for any gathering. Plus, it’s simple to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying time with your guests.

This dish features shrimp that are stuffed with a savory crab mixture, then baked to perfection. It’s a wonderful way to showcase fresh seafood and is sure to be a hit at your Memorial Day celebration. For a detailed recipe, check out this delicious crab-stuffed baked shrimp recipe below!

Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Sauce

These shrimp tacos are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a sunny Memorial Day gathering. Bursting with fresh flavors and a delightful creamy sauce, they offer a light yet satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them an excellent choice for any host.

Each taco is loaded with succulent shrimp, crunchy cabbage, and a drizzle of creamy goodness that ties it all together. The combination of textures and flavors brings a refreshing twist to your traditional taco night. Get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible dish! For a detailed recipe, check this out: Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Sauce.

Shrimp And Polenta

Shrimp and polenta is a delightful seafood dish that’s both comforting and impressive. The combination of tender shrimp paired with creamy polenta creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any gathering. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also quite simple to prepare, making it a great choice for those looking to impress their guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

The shrimp is usually sautéed with spices and aromatics, enhancing its natural sweetness, while the polenta serves as a rich, creamy base. This dish balances flavors beautifully, making it a hit at any Memorial Day gathering. If you’re interested in trying out this fantastic recipe, you can find more details here: Shrimp and Polenta Recipe.

Shrimp Burger

The shrimp burger is a delightful twist on the classic burger, offering a light and refreshing alternative that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Packed with flavor, these burgers combine succulent shrimp with spices, resulting in a satisfying bite that will impress your guests.

Making shrimp burgers is simple and fun! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit at your Memorial Day celebration. Pair them with your favorite sauces and fresh toppings for a tasty experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, and other toppings as desired

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine shrimp, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined but still chunky.
2. Form the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
4. Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill.
5. Assemble the burgers by placing a shrimp patty on each bun, topped with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.

Enjoy these shrimp burgers at your next barbecue! For a detailed recipe, check out this shrimp burger recipe.

Conclusion

These 14 Must-Try Memorial Day Seafood Recipes To Impress Your Guests are guaranteed to elevate your holiday celebration with fresh, flavorful dishes that everyone will love. From zesty shrimp to tender fish, each recipe brings something special to the table, making your Memorial Day gathering one to remember. So, fire up the grill, prepare your ingredients, and get ready to serve up a seafood feast that will leave your guests raving! With these recipes, you’ll have everything you need to make your Memorial Day truly unforgettable.