15 Memorial Day Seafood Bbq Recipes To Make Your Celebration Special

15 Memorial Day Seafood BBQ Recipes To Make Your Celebration Special—Memorial Day is the perfect time to fire up the grill and celebrate with family and friends, and what better way to enjoy the holiday than with fresh, flavorful seafood? Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy gathering, these 15 seafood BBQ recipes will take your Memorial Day celebration to the next level. From grilled shrimp and fish to decadent lobster tails, these recipes bring the best of the sea to your grill, offering a variety of flavors that are sure to impress your guests.

Seafood is naturally light and flavorful, making it the perfect choice for a summer BBQ. You’ll find a range of recipes that are simple to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and make the most of Memorial Day’s sunny weather. The combination of smoky grilling with the fresh taste of seafood creates a perfect harmony for your Memorial Day feast. Whether you’re grilling fish fillets, skewering shrimp, or preparing a whole lobster, these recipes will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Smoked Salmon Dip with Crackers

This smoked salmon dip is a delightful treat that will elevate your Memorial Day BBQ. With its creamy texture and rich, smoky flavor, it pairs perfectly with crunchy crackers for a satisfying bite. It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of cream cheese, fresh herbs, and savory smoked salmon creates a dip that’s both refreshing and sophisticated. Serve it chilled, and watch it disappear as friends and family gather around to savor each scoop. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to make your celebration special.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crackers for serving

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, smoked salmon, sour cream, dill, and lemon juice.
2. Mix until well blended and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Serve with your choice of crackers. Enjoy!

Classic New England Lobster Rolls

Nothing says summer like a classic New England lobster roll. This delicious dish features tender lobster meat, lightly dressed and served in a soft, buttery bun. It’s a perfect blend of coastal flavors and simplicity, making it a crowd-pleaser for any Memorial Day BBQ.

The taste is fresh and satisfying, with the sweetness of the lobster complemented by a hint of lemon and herbs. Best of all, making lobster rolls at home is easier than you might think. You’ll be enjoying this iconic dish in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 New England-style hot dog buns
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the chopped lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Brush the hot dog buns with melted butter and toast them lightly on a skillet until golden brown.
3. Fill each toasted bun with the lobster mixture generously.
4. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Spicy Cajun Fish Tacos

Spicy Cajun Fish Tacos bring a kick to your BBQ with their zesty flavors and fresh ingredients. The fish is seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, delivering a delightful heat that complements the soft tortillas perfectly. These tacos are simple to prepare, making them a great choice for a festive Memorial Day gathering.

With vibrant toppings like diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, each bite is a burst of flavor. Serve them with a side of salsa for an added crunch and a refreshing contrast. They are light yet satisfying, ideal for enjoying outdoors with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium heat.
2. Rub the fish fillets with olive oil and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky.
4. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. To assemble the tacos, place a piece of grilled fish on each tortilla and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
6. Serve with lime wedges on the side and enjoy!

Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Grilled lemon garlic shrimp skewers are a delightful addition to any summer barbecue. These skewers are bursting with fresh, zesty flavors that perfectly complement the juicy shrimp. They are easy to prepare and are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant taste and appealing presentation.

The combination of tangy lemon and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses each shrimp with flavor. Plus, the grilling process adds a smoky touch that elevates this dish even further. Perfect for Memorial Day celebrations, these skewers can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, making them versatile and enjoyable for everyone.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.
4. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled shrimp skewers!

Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa is a perfect dish for summer gatherings. The fish has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the bright and tangy pineapple salsa. This recipe is simple to follow, making it great for both novice cooks and seasoned grillers alike.

The grilling adds a nice smoky flavor while keeping the fish moist. The fresh ingredients in the salsa enhance the dish’s overall taste, creating a refreshing combination that’s ideal for Memorial Day celebrations or any outdoor BBQ. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture onto the Mahi-Mahi fillets.
2. Make the Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt and mix well.
3. Grill the Fish: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place the Mahi-Mahi fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky.
4. Serve: Once the fish is grilled, top with the pineapple salsa and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious and festive meal!

Honey Teriyaki Salmon Fillets

For a deliciously sweet and savory seafood dish, honey teriyaki salmon fillets are a standout choice. This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with a homemade teriyaki sauce that brings a perfect balance of honey sweetness and soy sauce umami. Plus, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to prepare, making it a great addition to your Memorial Day BBQ.

The caramelized glaze from the honey and soy sauce not only enhances the salmon’s natural flavor but also makes for an impressive presentation. Grill or bake these fillets for a quick, nutritious meal that everyone will love. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the holiday with fresh seafood!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
4. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon to a serving platter, and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Shrimp and Chorizo Skewers

Shrimp and chorizo skewers are a fantastic and tasty choice for your Memorial Day BBQ. The combination of succulent shrimp and spicy chorizo creates a delightful balance of flavors, making these skewers a crowd-pleaser. They are easy to prepare, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the celebrations with family and friends.

The smoky char from the grill enhances the flavors, while the juicy shrimp pairs perfectly with the bold spices from the chorizo. These skewers are not only delicious, but they also look great on the grill, making them a perfect dish to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces chorizo, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and chorizo, tossing to coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Thread the marinated shrimp and chorizo onto skewers, alternating between the two.
4. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the chorizo is heated through.
5. Remove from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges if desired.

Chili Lime Grilled Scallops

These chili lime grilled scallops are a delightful way to celebrate Memorial Day with a burst of flavor. The combination of zesty lime and a touch of chili gives these tender scallops a refreshing and slightly spicy kick. They are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for a relaxed outdoor barbecue.

Lightly seared to perfection, these scallops are not only delicious but also look stunning on the plate. Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro for a bright finish. They’re sure to impress your guests and elevate your barbecue feast!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Scallops: Add the scallops to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
4. Grill the Scallops: Place the scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy!

Breaded Calamari with Marinara Sauce

Breaded calamari is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any celebration. With its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful inside, it pairs wonderfully with a rich marinara sauce. This dish offers a satisfying crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser at summer barbecues or gatherings.

Luckily, making breaded calamari is easier than it sounds. With just a few ingredients and a quick frying process, you can whip up this delicious appetizer that will have everyone reaching for more.

Garlic Butter Clams in White Wine

Garlic Butter Clams in White Wine is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the sea right to your table. The clams are tender and infused with rich garlic and buttery flavors, complemented by a splash of white wine that adds a hint of acidity. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for your Memorial Day BBQ.

With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can impress your guests with this elegant seafood treat. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the clams to the pot, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open up. Discard any that remain closed.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the clams hot with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

BBQ Fish Platter with Seasonal Veggies

This BBQ fish platter is a delightful way to celebrate Memorial Day with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Grilling fish brings out its natural taste, creating a smoky, tender dish that pairs perfectly with seasonal veggies. It’s a simple and healthy option that’s sure to impress your guests.

The combination of grilled fish and a variety of seasonal vegetables not only makes for a tasty meal but also adds a beautiful presentation to your table. This recipe is easy to customize based on what’s available, making it versatile and fun for everyone at the BBQ!

Ingredients

• 1 whole fish (like trout or snapper), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups seasonal veggies (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture inside and outside the fish.
3. Stuff the fish with lemon slices and any additional herbs if desired.
4. Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. While the fish is grilling, toss your seasonal veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them in a basket or on skewers until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve the grilled fish alongside the veggies, garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy!

Mango Coconut Shrimp Ceviche

Mango Coconut Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of ripe mango with the zesty flavor of lime and the tender texture of shrimp. This dish is light, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for your Memorial Day BBQ. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, it’s sure to impress your guests.

The tropical notes from the coconut and mango create a delightful contrast with the briny shrimp, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, this ceviche requires no cooking, just a bit of marinating and mixing, which means you can spend more time enjoying the festivities!

Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 large ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp and lime juice. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, or until the shrimp turns opaque.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Add the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, coconut milk, and jalapeño to the shrimp. Gently toss to combine.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lime juice or coconut milk if needed for flavor.
4. Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy with tortilla chips or on a bed of lettuce!

Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Olives

Grilled octopus is a fantastic dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your backyard. Tender and smoky, this seafood treat pairs beautifully with zesty lemon and briny olives, creating a unique flavor combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Not only does the dish impress with its presentation, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for your Memorial Day BBQ.

This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of the octopus, enhanced by a light marinade and the grill’s char. Guests will love the succulent texture and the medley of flavors that dance on the palate. Serve this dish alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a memorable celebration.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs octopus, cleaned
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 lemons (juice and zest)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed olives
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Octopus: Submerge the cleaned octopus in the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Grill the Octopus: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the octopus from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until it’s charred and tender.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled octopus and arrange it on a serving platter. Scatter olives over the top and garnish with chopped parsley. Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired.

Crispy Fish Fry with Tartar Sauce

There’s nothing quite like the crunch of a crispy fish fry paired with a tangy tartar sauce. This dish is a classic for good reason—it’s deliciously satisfying and makes for a perfect centerpiece at any Memorial Day BBQ. The fish is coated in a crispy breading that adds flavor and texture, while the homemade tartar sauce brings a refreshing zing that balances the richness.

Making crispy fish is surprisingly easy, and it’s a great way to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re using fresh catch or frozen fillets, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (cod, haddock, or your choice)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, place flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
3. Bread the Fish: Dredge each fillet in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure it adheres.
4. Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the fish fillets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Tartar Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, relish, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined.
6. Serve: Plate the crispy fish with a side of tartar sauce and lemon wedges for squeezing. Enjoy!

Seafood Paella with Saffron Rice

Seafood paella is a vibrant dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its colorful saffron-infused rice, fresh shrimp, and tender mussels, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This recipe is not only satisfying but also relatively simple to make, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings like Memorial Day BBQs.

The combination of seafood and saffron gives this dish a unique taste that feels luxurious but is accessible for home cooks. Paella is a fantastic way to celebrate with friends and family as it’s often made in a large pan, allowing everyone to dig in together. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups seafood stock
• 1 tsp saffron threads
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb mussels, cleaned
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Saffron: In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in a few tablespoons of warm water for about 10 minutes.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large paella pan or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the Arborio rice and paprika, allowing the rice to coat in the oil and spices for about a minute.
4. Pour in Stock: Add the seafood stock and the saffron mixture, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes without stirring.
5. Add Seafood: Gently place the shrimp and mussels on top of the rice. Cover and let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the mussels have opened and the shrimp are pink. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Garnish: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Conclusion

These 15 Memorial Day Seafood BBQ Recipes To Make Your Celebration Special will bring excitement and flavor to your holiday gathering. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp, scallops, fish, or lobster, these seafood dishes are guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone at your BBQ. With vibrant flavors, simple preparation, and the unbeatable taste of freshly grilled seafood, you’ll create lasting memories around the grill this Memorial Day. Get ready to enjoy a celebration full of delicious food, great company, and plenty of sunshine!