When it comes to seafood, there’s no shortage of delicious and refreshing options for a perfect appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a summer soiree or a cozy dinner party, serving up some tasty seafood bites can be the key to keeping your guests satisfied until the main course arrives. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouthwatering seafood appetizer recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
From classic combinations like garlic butter shrimp skewers and crispy calamari with lemon aioli, to more adventurous options like spicy tuna tartare on cucumber slices and grilled oysters with herb butter, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Stay tuned for the full list of seafood appetizer recipes, and get ready to make your next gathering a culinary hit!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your dinner party with these succulent shrimp skewers, smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the shrimp.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot with additional garlic butter sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Calamari with Lemon Aioli
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this addictive combination of crispy fried calamari and tangy lemon aioli. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut calamari tubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each calamari piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry calamari for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with Lemon Aioli for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Tuna Tartare on Cucumber Slices
Experience the refreshing combination of spicy tuna tartare and crunchy cucumber slices. This appetizer is perfect for a hot summer evening or as a light snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and Sriracha sauce. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Arrange cucumber slices on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture over the cucumber slices.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lobster and Avocado Crostini
Elevate your gathering with these luxurious bites that combine the richness of lobster with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, flaked
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 20-24 slices)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lobster meat and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice.
5. Top each slice with a spoonful of lobster mixture, followed by a dollop of avocado.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the bread is toasted and lightly browned.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers. These bite-sized treats are perfect for brunches, parties, or even as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons smoked salmon, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Capers, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, cream cheese, mustard, dill, and smoked salmon until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with capers and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including prep time)
Grilled Oysters with Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of herb butter. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion, grilled oysters are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 freshly shucked oysters
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, chives, and garlic until well combined.
3. Place oysters on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they start to open.
4. Spread a pat of herb butter on each oyster just before serving.
5. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent crab-stuffed mushroom recipe. Fresh crab, cream cheese, and herbs come together to create a rich and indulgent flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stemmed
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa
This refreshing recipe combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the tangy freshness of mango, creating a perfect blend of flavors for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve seared scallops on a plate, spooning the mango salsa over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Bacon Dip with Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this decadent dip featuring fresh clams, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can of chopped clams
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Crostini or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, bacon, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly set.
5. Serve warm with crostini or crackers. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Panko-Crusted Coconut Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this delectable recipe that combines the crunch of Panko breadcrumbs with the tropical flavor of coconut. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna Poke Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this unique fusion of Hawaiian-inspired tuna poke and crunchy, cheesy goodness. This recipe combines the bold flavors of sashimi-grade tuna with the richness of melted cheese and spicy nacho magic.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheese blend
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and ginger.
3. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture over the chips.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Top with diced tomatoes and sliced jalapeño (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Grilled Octopus with Chimichurri
A classic Argentinean dish that pairs tender grilled octopus with a bright and tangy chimichurri sauce, perfect for any outdoor gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped oregano
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chimichurri sauce (see below)
Grilling Octopus:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the octopus pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Let rest for 1 minute before serving.
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Serve with grilled octopus.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (5-6 minutes for grilling, 3-4 minutes for chimichurri preparation)
Shrimp Ceviche in Endive Cups
Experience the vibrant flavors of Latin America with this refreshing shrimp ceviche recipe, perfectly portioned in crunchy endive cups.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– 12 endive cups
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Stir gently to combine.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, place an endive cup on each plate or serving dish.
4. Spoon the ceviche mixture into the endive cups, mounding it slightly.
5. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Lobster Bisque Shooters
Lobster Bisque Shooters Recipe
Elevate your cocktail party with these decadent lobster bisque shooters that pack a punch of flavor and luxury. Perfect for special occasions or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lobster bisque (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon cognac or brandy (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mini cocktail glasses or shot glasses
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the lobster bisque over low heat.
2. Add the heavy cream and softened butter. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add cognac or brandy for an added depth of flavor.
4. Ladle the bisque mixture into mini cocktail glasses or shot glasses.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on heating time)
Fried Oyster Sliders with Remoulade
These bite-sized sliders pack a flavorful punch, featuring crispy fried oysters and creamy remoulade sauce on toasted buns. Perfect for seafood lovers and partygoers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns, toasted
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dredge oysters in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry oysters until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Assemble sliders by placing fried oysters on toasted buns, topped with remoulade sauce and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to fry the oysters.
Spicy Crab Rangoon Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this spicy twist on the classic crab rangoon. Soft wontons filled with a creamy crab mixture, served with a tangy sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, soy sauce, and sriracha sauce until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry wontons until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with sweet chili sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Stuffed Jalapeños
These spicy treats combine the bold flavors of seafood with the creamy richness of cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy jalapeño package. Perfect for appetizers or snacks!
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeños
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup shrimp, diced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of jalapeños and carefully scoop out seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with seafood mixture, leaving a small border at top.
5. Top each jalapeño with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Crab Cakes with Dill Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful Herbed Crab Cakes, served with a tangy and refreshing Dill Sauce. Perfect for a light and delicious dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the crab cakes:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
For the Dill Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a round cake.
4. Place cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. While crab cakes are baking, mix together Dill Sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve crab cakes warm with chilled Dill Sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 delicious seafood appetizer recipes, perfect for any occasion. From classic garlic butter shrimp skewers and crispy calamari with lemon aioli, to innovative dishes like spicy tuna tartare on cucumber slices and sea-sational variations of deviled eggs and nachos. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
