13 Easy Memorial Day Seafood Side Dishes To Serve With Your Bbq

13 Easy Memorial Day Seafood Side Dishes To Serve With Your BBQ is your ultimate guide to adding fresh, vibrant, and unexpected flavor to your holiday cookout. While burgers, ribs, and grilled chicken usually take the spotlight on Memorial Day, the sides are what truly round out the meal—and seafood makes them even better.

Think beyond the usual potato salad and coleslaw. These seafood side dishes bring something light, zesty, and a little coastal to your barbecue spread. Whether it’s a chilled shrimp pasta salad bursting with lemon and herbs, crispy crab cakes with a creamy dipping sauce, or a smoky grilled corn and lobster mix that wows with every bite—this collection has something for every type of eater at your cookout.

The best part? Every recipe is easy to make, doesn’t take hours in the kitchen, and pairs perfectly with whatever you’re firing up on the grill. These sides are ideal for feeding a crowd, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something a bit more special this year. Plus, seafood is naturally light and packed with flavor, making it perfect for sunny, laid-back gatherings.

So if you’re looking to shake things up, serve something memorable, and bring a little coastal charm to your Memorial Day table, dive into these deliciously easy seafood side dishes. Your BBQ just got a whole lot more exciting.

Lemon Garlic Butter Clams

Lemon garlic butter clams are a delightful seafood dish that brings a burst of fresh flavors to your table. This recipe combines the sweetness of clams with the richness of butter and the brightness of lemon, creating a dish that is both simple and impressive. Perfect for Memorial Day BBQs, these clams are easy to prepare and will surely be a hit with your guests.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came straight from a coastal restaurant. The garlic and lemon elevate the natural essence of the clams, making each bite a savory delight!

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Lemon and Herbs

Grilled shrimp skewers are a delightful addition to any BBQ, especially on Memorial Day. With their vibrant flavors and quick cooking time, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser. The combination of zesty lemon and fresh herbs enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.

These skewers are not just simple to make; they also add a splash of color to your plate. Perfect for pairing with other BBQ dishes, you’ll find they complement grilled meats and salads wonderfully. Plus, they take only minutes to grill, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
3. Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Savory Seafood Pasta Salad

This seafood pasta salad is the perfect side dish for your Memorial Day BBQ. It’s refreshing, light, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal complement to grilled foods. With a mix of colorful veggies and tender seafood, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

This recipe is simple to whip up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering and less time in the kitchen. You can even make it a few hours in advance, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup scallops, cooked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shrimp, scallops, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
3. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Give it a gentle toss before serving. Enjoy your seafood pasta salad alongside your grilled favorites!

Zucchini Fritters with Smoked Salmon

These zucchini fritters topped with smoked salmon are a delightful addition to your Memorial Day BBQ. They are light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect side dish that brings a refreshing twist to your spread. The combination of the savory fritters and the rich, smoky salmon creates a delicious bite that’s hard to resist.

Making zucchini fritters is simple and fun. You just grate the zucchini, mix it with a few ingredients, and pan-fry until golden. Topping them with smoked salmon and a dollop of sour cream adds a gourmet touch without much effort. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is easy to whip up, perfect for any outdoor gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Olive oil, for frying
• 4 ounces smoked salmon
• Sour cream, for topping
• Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Afterward, squeeze the towel to remove excess water.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Heat the Pan: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture into the pan, flattening it slightly with a spatula. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Repeat: Continue frying the fritters in batches, adding more oil as needed, until all the mixture is used.
5. Serve: Top each fritter with a slice of smoked salmon, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley. Enjoy!

Creamy Coleslaw with a Seafood Twist

This creamy coleslaw with a seafood twist brings a refreshing change to your traditional BBQ sides. The sweetness of the coleslaw blends beautifully with the savory notes of shrimp, creating a perfect balance that enhances any meal. It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for your Memorial Day celebrations.

Adding a seafood element to coleslaw not only elevates the dish but also introduces delightful textures and flavors. This coleslaw is creamy, crunchy, and perfect for pairing with grilled meats or enjoying on its own. Your guests will love this unique take on a classic favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced bell pepper.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
4. Add the Shrimp: Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley, mixing until well combined.
5. Chill: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Grilled Vegetable and Fish Skewers

Grilled vegetable and fish skewers are a fantastic addition to any BBQ, especially for Memorial Day. They combine the freshness of colorful veggies with tender, juicy fish, creating a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. The smoky aroma from the grill enhances each ingredient, making every bite a delight.

This recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. It’s quick to prepare and allows for personalization with your favorite vegetables and fish. Serve these skewers with a tasty dipping sauce, and you have a hit dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound firm white fish (like cod or halibut), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the fish cubes, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat everything evenly.
3. Thread the fish and veggies onto the skewers, alternating between them for a colorful presentation.
4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from the grill and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Chilled Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Sauce

Chilled shrimp cocktail is a classic seafood dish that’s always a hit at any gathering. It offers a refreshing taste with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal complement to your BBQ spread. The zesty sauce adds a delightful kick, elevating the dish while keeping it simple and easy to prepare.

This dish is not only quick to make but also brings a touch of elegance to your table. It’s perfect for warm weather, and your guests will love the chilled shrimp paired with a tangy sauce. Serve it on ice for an attractive presentation that adds to the festive spirit of your Memorial Day celebration!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons horseradish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Ice for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to cool.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Mix well and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Dish: Once the shrimp are chilled, arrange them on a platter over ice. Serve with the zesty sauce on the side for dipping.

Spicy Crab Corn Fritters

Spicy crab corn fritters are the perfect blend of sweet corn and tender crab meat, with a spicy kick that makes them irresistible. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, bringing a burst of flavor with every bite. They are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making them an ideal side dish for your Memorial Day BBQ.

Pair these fritters with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra layer of taste. Whether served as an appetizer or alongside grilled meats, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh corn kernels
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together corn, crab meat, flour, green onions, red bell pepper, egg, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly to form fritters.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Tuna

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Tuna is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the rich, savory notes of tuna, fresh vegetables, and zesty herbs. Perfect for a light side dish at your BBQ, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing.

Simple to make, it requires minimal cooking and can be prepared in about 30 minutes. Toss together your favorite Mediterranean ingredients, and you’ll have a vibrant salad that complements grilled meats beautifully. Enjoy this easy dish with friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 can of tuna, drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!

Baked Scallops with Garlic Breadcrumbs

Baked scallops with garlic breadcrumbs are a delicious and easy side dish that perfectly complements any BBQ. The tender, sweet scallops are enhanced by a crunchy topping, creating a delightful contrast in textures. With a burst of garlic flavor and a hint of butter, these scallops are sure to impress your guests and elevate your Memorial Day feast.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also allows for quick preparation, making it a fantastic choice for outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, these baked scallops bring a touch of elegance and flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
4. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad

This roasted corn and avocado salad is a refreshing addition to any Memorial Day BBQ. It’s packed with crisp veggies and creamy avocado, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The sweet corn complements the richness of the avocado, while fresh herbs add a bright touch. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a stress-free side dish for your gathering.

With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, this salad not only looks great on the table but also brings a burst of flavor to complement your main dishes. Whether you’re serving grilled seafood or classic burgers, this salad is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred. Remove from the grill and let cool.
2. Once cooled, cut the corn kernels off the cobs and place them in a large bowl.
3. Add diced avocados, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl with the corn.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Seafood-Stuffed Avocados

Seafood-stuffed avocados are a delightful and refreshing addition to your Memorial Day BBQ. They combine the creaminess of ripe avocados with a zesty seafood filling, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. This dish is not only easy to make but also visually appealing, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

With the right mix of seafood, lime, and spices, you can whip these up in no time. Whether you’re using shrimp, crab, or a mix of your favorites, these stuffed avocados are bound to impress your guests and complement your BBQ spread beautifully!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 cup cooked shrimp or crab meat, chopped
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Black olives for garnish
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop out a little of the flesh to create a larger cavity for the filling. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp or crab meat, diced bell pepper, diced onion, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Fill the Avocados: Spoon the seafood mixture into the avocado halves, packing it in gently.
4. Garnish: Top with sliced black olives and fresh cilantro for a colorful finish.
5. Serve: Arrange on a platter and enjoy immediately or chill for a short while before serving.

Cilantro Lime Rice with Shrimp

Cilantro lime rice with shrimp is a bright and zesty dish that perfectly complements any BBQ. This recipe marries the fresh flavors of cilantro and lime with tender shrimp, making it a great addition to your Memorial Day feast. The simplicity of preparation ensures you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy the company of family and friends.

This dish bursts with flavor, thanks to the citrusy lime and fragrant cilantro. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal seafood side. Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a standalone dish for a refreshing meal. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 lime, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked through.
4. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp until well combined.
6. Serve warm, garnished with lime slices and additional cilantro if desired.

Conclusion

Memorial Day is all about celebrating with friends and family, honoring the spirit of the holiday, and of course—enjoying good food under the sun. These 13 seafood side dishes are more than just tasty additions to your BBQ—they bring balance, freshness, and that perfect splash of summer to your menu.

Whether you’re cooking for a big crowd or keeping it intimate, these dishes are sure to stand out and satisfy. They’re quick to make, fun to serve, and full of flavor that complements any grilled main you’ve got on the menu. From shrimp to crab to a little taste of the ocean, they’re here to elevate your cookout.

So grab your tongs, get the grill going, and let these seafood sides steal the show.