11 Tasty Spring Fish Recipes For Your Next Dinner Party

Spring is the season of fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and light yet satisfying meals—and nothing embodies that better than a beautifully prepared fish dish. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party, a casual backyard gathering, or simply craving a taste of the season, fish is the perfect way to celebrate spring’s bounty. Crispy-skinned salmon with a bright herb sauce, buttery lemon-drenched cod, or spicy grilled shrimp skewers—each bite should feel like a celebration of the sea’s finest.

This collection of 11 spring fish recipes is designed to inspire your next culinary masterpiece. Imagine tender, flaky halibut roasted with asparagus and drizzled with a zesty gremolata, or a fragrant Thai-style fish curry bursting with coconut milk and fresh basil. Maybe you’re in the mood for something simple yet impressive, like seared scallops with a silky pea puree, or a Mediterranean-inspired whole roasted branzino stuffed with citrus and herbs. Whatever your preference, these recipes balance ease and elegance, ensuring your dinner party is as stress-free as it is delicious.

But this isn’t just about cooking fish—it’s about creating an experience. Picture your guests leaning in for seconds of your garlic-butter lobster tails, or the satisfying crunch of golden beer-battered fish tacos topped with tangy slaw. We’ve included tips on selecting the freshest catch, foolproof cooking methods, and perfect wine or cocktail pairings to elevate your meal. So, whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just dipping your toes in, these recipes will help you serve up a spring feast that’s as memorable as it is mouthwatering.

Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavor of salmon with a fresh, herbaceous crust. The zesty lemon butter sauce adds a bright touch, making each bite burst with flavor. This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, perfect for impressing your guests at a dinner party.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a beautiful main course that looks as good as it tastes. The salmon remains moist and tender while the herbs provide a lovely aromatic profile. Serve it alongside some seasonal vegetables for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the salmon fillets.
3. Place the salmon in a baking dish and top each fillet with a slice of lemon.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. While the salmon is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan and stir in lemon juice. Keep warm.
6. Once the salmon is done, drizzle the lemon butter sauce over each fillet and serve immediately.

Fish Piccata with Capers and Parsley

Fish Piccata is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of fish with the bright flavors of capers and parsley. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also brings a burst of zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. It’s perfect for a spring dinner party, impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The fish cooks quickly and absorbs the tangy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a meal that feels special yet is easy enough for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 fillets of white fish (such as sole or tilapia)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Cook the Fish: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice and capers. Cook for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted.
4. Combine and Serve: Return the fish to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon slices on the side.

Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives

Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives is a refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. Tender cod fillets are baked to perfection alongside juicy cherry tomatoes and briny olives, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This meal is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for your next dinner party.

The combination of the mild fish, sweet tomatoes, and savory olives offers a burst of taste with every bite. Plus, it requires minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your guests. Serve it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup black olives
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, arrange the cod fillets and season them with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and olives around the fish.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cod and vegetables, then sprinkle the minced garlic on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout with Almond Butter

Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout with Almond Butter is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors to your dinner table. The trout, with its tender, flaky texture, pairs perfectly with the rich, nutty almond butter and a hint of citrus from lemon slices. This recipe is simple to prepare yet feels special enough for any dinner party.

The combination of searing the fish until golden and adding a creamy almond butter sauce creates a delicious contrast that will impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at fish for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding!

Ingredients

• 2 rainbow trout fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the trout fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the trout fillets, skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
3. Flip the Fish: Carefully flip the fillets and add lemon slices to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix almond butter with honey until well combined. You can add a splash of warm water to thin it out, if needed.
5. Serve: Plate the trout, drizzle with almond butter sauce, and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Balsamic Glazed Tilapia with Asparagus

Balsamic Glazed Tilapia with Asparagus is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the light flavors of fish with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tilapia’s flaky texture pairs beautifully with tender asparagus, creating a balanced meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

The glaze adds a rich depth that enhances the mild fish, while the asparagus provides a fresh crunch. This dish is not only easy on the palate but also on the eyes, making it a splendid centerpiece for your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
3. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle half of the balsamic glaze over the fish.
4. Trim the asparagus and arrange them alongside the tilapia on the baking sheet. Drizzle the remaining glaze over the asparagus.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve immediately, spooning any extra glaze from the baking sheet over the tilapia and asparagus.

Grilled Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Mango Salsa

Grilled Mahi-Mahi tacos are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring. The fish is tender and flaky, complemented perfectly by a vibrant mango salsa that adds a sweet and tangy twist. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Each bite bursts with fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of grilled fish with the juicy mango and crisp vegetables creates a refreshing meal that feels light and satisfying. Plus, assembling the tacos is a fun way to get everyone involved in the meal prep. Serve these tacos with lime wedges for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 1 pound mahi-mahi fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over both sides of the mahi-mahi fillets.
2. Grill the fish for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. While the fish is resting, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
4. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. Assemble the tacos by placing a piece of grilled mahi-mahi on each tortilla and topping it with the mango salsa.
5. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Lemon-Dill Grilled Sardines

Lemon-dill grilled sardines are a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for spring gatherings. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant dill brings out the natural flavors of the sardines, making them both tasty and aromatic. Plus, this recipe is simple to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is light yet satisfying, and grilling adds a lovely smoky touch that elevates the overall taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these grilled sardines will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Sardines: Rinse the sardines under cold water and pat them dry. Make sure they are cleaned and scaled.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the sardines, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the sardines on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove the sardines from the grill and garnish with lemon slices. Enjoy them hot as a delicious main course or appetizer.

Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice

Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a rich, comforting sauce that wraps around tender shrimp. This recipe is not only delicious but also quite simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The dish is aromatic and invites a burst of flavor with every bite. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it balances the spiciness of the curry with the subtle sweetness of coconut. Your guests will love the vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups water
• Cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the red curry paste and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Serve: Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and serve it on plates topped with the coconut curry shrimp. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Crispy Skin Barramundi with Citrus Salsa

This Crispy Skin Barramundi is a delightful dish that brings a taste of spring to your dinner table. The combination of perfectly seared fish and bright citrus salsa makes it refreshing and vibrant. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a dinner party, ensuring your guests will be impressed.

The barramundi is known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, while the citrus salsa adds a zesty pop that complements the fish beautifully. This dish is all about balance, bringing together savory and sweet elements that dance on your palate.

Ingredients

• 4 barramundi fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 orange, segmented
• 1 grapefruit, segmented
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the barramundi fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
3. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine orange and grapefruit segments, lime juice, honey, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño (if using). Gently toss to mix.
4. Serve: Place the crispy barramundi on a plate and top with the citrus salsa. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides!

Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl

If you’re looking for a fresh and zesty dish that’s easy to prepare, the spicy tuna poke bowl is perfect. This recipe combines tender chunks of tuna with a spicy, savory dressing, served over a bed of rice and topped with colorful vegetables. The flavors are bright and exciting, making it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner party.

This poke bowl is not only delicious but also simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a vibrant and healthy meal that’s packed with protein and good-for-you veggies. It’s a fun way to bring a taste of Hawaii to your table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sushi-grade tuna, diced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups cooked sushi rice
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Seaweed salad (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna: In a bowl, combine diced tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha. Mix gently to coat the tuna and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.
2. Assemble the Bowl: In a serving bowl, place a scoop of sushi rice as the base.
3. Add the Toppings: Arrange the marinated tuna, avocado slices, cucumber, carrots, and green onions on top of the rice.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and add seaweed salad if desired.
5. Serve: Enjoy your spicy tuna poke bowl fresh and chilled!

Mediterranean Grilled Swordfish with Olive Tapenade

This Mediterranean Grilled Swordfish with Olive Tapenade is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. The swordfish is grilled to perfection, offering a firm yet flakey texture, while the olive tapenade adds a burst of briny flavor that elevates the whole meal. This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for your next dinner party.

The combination of fresh herbs and tangy olives creates a vibrant topping that pairs beautifully with the grilled fish. Serve with seasonal vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 swordfish steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Swordfish: Rub the swordfish steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Make the Tapenade: In a food processor, combine the green olives, kalamata olives, garlic, capers, lemon juice, and parsley. Blend until coarsely chopped.
3. Grill the Fish: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the swordfish for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and grill marks appear.
4. Serve: Top each grilled swordfish steak with a generous scoop of olive tapenade. Enjoy with your choice of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts
A spring dinner party deserves a centerpiece that’s light, fresh, and full of flavor—and these fish dishes deliver exactly that. From quick weeknight meals to showstopping platters, each recipe brings something special to the table, ensuring your gathering is a hit. So, pick your favorite, fire up the stove (or grill!), and get ready to impress with a meal that tastes like spring in every bite. Your guests—and your taste buds—will thank you!