16 Memorial Day Seafood Recipes Perfect for Outdoor Dining offer a delightful way to celebrate the long weekend with family and friends. Memorial Day is synonymous with outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and a laid-back atmosphere. What better way to elevate your outdoor dining experience than with a spread of fresh, flavorful seafood? Whether you’re grilling by the beach, enjoying a backyard barbecue, or hosting a picnic in the park, seafood adds a light, summery touch that’s perfect for the occasion.
From succulent grilled shrimp to tender fish tacos, these recipes are designed to shine in the warm sunshine and bring out the best of what the sea has to offer. Seafood is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it the ideal choice for creating a menu that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. You’ll find a variety of dishes here, from quick and simple options to more elaborate presentations, all perfect for celebrating the holiday in style.
These recipes are packed with vibrant flavors, zesty marinades, and fresh ingredients that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re looking for an elegant appetizer, a crowd-pleasing main dish, or a fresh side to complement your feast, this list has you covered. Let’s dive in and make this Memorial Day one to remember with seafood that’s sure to impress.
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-wrapped scallops are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that are perfect for outdoor dining. They are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The crispy bacon adds a smoky richness that perfectly complements the tender scallops, creating a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
These bites are simple enough for a beginner chef but impressive enough to wow your guests. Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a bright finish, and you have a dish that’s sure to steal the show. For a detailed recipe, check out this bacon-wrapped scallops recipe.
Classic Crab Salad
Classic Crab Salad is a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with the delightful taste of crab, making it a favorite for outdoor dining. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, which means you can spend more time enjoying the sun and less time in the kitchen.
This dish can be served on a bed of greens or paired with crackers for a tasty appetizer. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit at any potluck or barbecue. For a detailed recipe, check out this classic crab salad recipe that will surely impress your guests!
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine right to your table. It’s a perfect combination of juicy shrimp, al dente pasta, and aromatic spices that creates a tasty and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it ideal for a quick dinner or a festive outdoor gathering.
The dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the zesty Cajun seasoning, fresh tomatoes, and garlic. Each bite is a little burst of spice and sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. If you want to impress your guests this Memorial Day, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Check out the full recipe for Cajun Shrimp Pasta below!
Shrimp And Sausage One-Pot
This Shrimp and Sausage One-Pot dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for your Memorial Day gathering. Bursting with flavor, it combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the savory goodness of sausage, making every bite deliciously satisfying. Plus, the simplicity of a one-pot recipe means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy the day with friends and family.
The dish is seasoned to perfection and can be customized with your favorite veggies, making it a versatile option. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, ensuring a delightful meal without the hassle. Check out the full recipe here and impress your guests!
Baked Cod Fillets
Baked cod fillets are a light and delightful dish that is perfect for outdoor dining on Memorial Day. The cod is seasoned simply, allowing the fresh flavors of lemon and herbs to shine through. This recipe is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing meal in the sun.
With a tender texture and a mildly sweet flavor, cod fillets pair beautifully with vibrant sides like asparagus or a fresh salad. You can whip this up in no time, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy your gathering. Check out this easy cod recipe to impress your guests!
Creamy Lobster Bisque
Creamy Lobster Bisque is a delightful seafood soup that’s rich and full of flavor. This dish combines tender lobster meat with a smooth, velvety broth, making it a perfect choice for outdoor dining on Memorial Day. The subtle sweetness of the lobster pairs beautifully with a hint of spice, resulting in a comforting yet elegant meal.
Making this bisque is surprisingly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients and steps. It’s a great way to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this bisque will surely be a hit at your gathering. For a detailed recipe, check out this delicious lobster bisque recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the seafood stock, making sure there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the chopped lobster meat, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through without boiling. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives.
Lobster Tail Recipe
Grilling lobster tails is a simple yet elegant way to impress your guests this Memorial Day. The sweet and tender meat pairs beautifully with a light seasoning, making it a delightful choice for outdoor dining. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your backyard.
This lobster tail recipe highlights the natural flavors of the seafood while adding a hint of garlic and lemon for brightness. Perfectly cooked, the tails are juicy and bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to master, allowing you to enjoy the day with family and friends.
Check out this fantastic lobster tail recipe to make your outdoor dining unforgettable! Here’s how to whip up this mouthwatering dish:
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Using kitchen shears, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail down the center, exposing the meat.
- Brush the lobster meat with the butter mixture.
- Place the lobster tails shell side down on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, basting occasionally with the butter mixture, until the meat is opaque and slightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing.
Easy Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is an ideal dish for Memorial Day gatherings, combining simplicity and flavor in one delicious package. The rich, buttery taste of the salmon pairs perfectly with a zesty lemon and fresh herbs, making it mouthwatering and refreshing. It’s a dish that can be prepared in no time, allowing you to spend more moments outdoors with family and friends.
This recipe is not just easy to make but also healthy, providing a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. You can serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light salad, making it a versatile option for outdoor dining. You’ll have your guests coming back for seconds!
For a simple yet satisfying meal, give this easy baked salmon recipe a try.
Fried Catfish Nuggets
Fried catfish nuggets are a delightful treat perfect for outdoor gatherings. Their crispy, golden exterior gives way to tender, flaky fish inside, making them a crowd favorite. They are simple to make and pack a punch of flavor, especially when paired with your favorite dipping sauces.
These nuggets are also versatile, allowing you to spice them up with different seasonings or serve them alongside traditional sides like fries and coleslaw. For those looking to impress their guests this Memorial Day, these fried catfish nuggets will surely be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Catfish: In a bowl, soak the catfish pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the fish and add flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper together.
- Coat the Fish: Remove the catfish from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the cornmeal mixture until well coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the nuggets.
- Fry the Nuggets: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the catfish nuggets in batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Enjoy your fried catfish nuggets hot with tartar sauce or lemon wedges for that extra zing!
For more detailed instructions and tips, check out this easy catfish nugget recipe!
Tilapia Fish Tacos
Tilapia fish tacos are a fresh and tasty choice for any outdoor gathering. The mild flavor of tilapia pairs perfectly with zesty toppings, making these tacos a hit with everyone. Plus, they are simple to prepare, letting you spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family.
With a grilled or pan-seared tilapia fillet, crunchy cabbage, and a drizzle of creamy sauce, these tacos bring a delightful crunch to your meal. Add some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that extra kick. For a detailed recipe, check out this tilapia fish tacos recipe!
Shrimp And Potato
When it comes to simple and delicious meals, shrimp and potatoes never disappoint. This dish features tender shrimp paired with fluffy potatoes, all seasoned to perfection. The combination creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any outdoor gathering.
The taste is a delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet, with the shrimp offering a juicy bite that complements the creaminess of the potatoes. Prepare this dish in no time, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands!
For a detailed recipe, check out this shrimp and potato recipe.
Fried Scallops
Fried scallops are a delightful treat that brings a taste of the ocean right to your table. They’re crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish for your Memorial Day gathering. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen.
This recipe features a light breading that captures the sweet flavor of the scallops while adding a satisfying crunch. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. They’re sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, place the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Scallops: Dip each scallop first in the flour mixture, then into the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Scallops: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded scallops in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the scallops from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
For more delicious recipes, check out this link.
Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp is a fantastic choice for outdoor dining, especially on Memorial Day. The shrimp are marinated to soak up vibrant flavors and then grilled to perfection, giving them a delicious smoky edge. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also quick to cook, making it perfect for a festive gathering.
The combination of fresh ingredients and spices delivers a mouthwatering taste that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you’re serving it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or dipping sauces, grilled shrimp is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for about 15-30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy this delightful recipe and make your Memorial Day celebration even more special with grilled shrimp!
Shrimp And Corn Chowder
On a warm Memorial Day, nothing satisfies quite like a comforting bowl of shrimp and corn chowder. This creamy soup is packed with tender shrimp and sweet corn, creating a delightful blend of flavors that feels both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for outdoor dining, it’s simple to make and is sure to impress your family and friends.
The chowder has a rich, savory base complemented by the sweetness of corn and the subtle brininess of shrimp. It’s a delightful dish that brings together the essence of summer in every spoonful. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal. For a detailed recipe, check out this shrimp and corn chowder.
Best-Ever Crab Cakes
These crab cakes are a delightful combination of tender crab meat and savory seasonings, making them a perfect choice for your Memorial Day gathering. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, they are sure to please seafood lovers and newcomers alike. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, allowing you to focus on enjoying the outdoors.
Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra kick. These crab cakes are not only delicious but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish. Check out this best-ever crab cake recipe to get started!
Easy Shrimp Curry
Easy Shrimp Curry brings the warmth of spices and the freshness of seafood to your table. This dish features succulent shrimp simmered in a rich, creamy sauce that blends perfectly with fragrant rice or warm naan. It’s a delightful meal that’s both comforting and flavorful, making it an ideal choice for outdoor dining on Memorial Day.
Best of all, this easy recipe comes together in just a matter of minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and family. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that everyone will love. For a full recipe, check out this easy shrimp curry that’s perfect for your next gathering.
Conclusion
Memorial Day is the perfect time to embrace the flavors of the sea, and with these 16 Memorial Day seafood recipes, you’ll be well-equipped to create a memorable outdoor dining experience. Seafood is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and always bursting with flavor—making it the ideal choice for your holiday celebrations.
From grilled fish and shrimp to fresh ceviches and seafood salads, these recipes offer a variety of ways to bring the taste of summer to your table. Pair them with your favorite sides, cold drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere, and you’ll have a celebration that everyone will enjoy. No matter what you choose to make, these dishes will ensure that your Memorial Day is filled with great food, good company, and lasting memories.
Happy cooking, and here’s to a fantastic Memorial Day filled with sunshine, seafood, and good times!
