10 Quick and Easy Seafood Dinners for Busy Weeknights

With busy weeknights often leaving little time for elaborate meals, these 10 quick and easy seafood dinners are here to save the day. Each recipe is designed to be simple, delicious, and ready in no time, making it easy to enjoy the benefits of seafood without the hassle. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into some flavorful dishes that won’t keep you in the kitchen for hours!

Quick Shrimp Stir-Fry

This quick shrimp stir-fry is a delightful option for a busy weeknight dinner. With its succulent shrimp and colorful veggies, it brings a burst of flavor to your table in no time.

Fast to prepare and simple to cook, this dish is light yet satisfying. The shrimp cook quickly, while the crisp vegetables add a nice crunch. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Stir in the shrimp and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and mix everything well, cooking for an additional minute to combine flavors.
5. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Spicy Tuna Tacos with Avocado

Spicy Tuna Tacos with Avocado are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The freshness of the tuna paired with creamy avocado delivers a satisfying bite that is both zesty and rich. Plus, they come together in no time, making dinner prep a breeze.

These tacos are not just quick to prepare; they are also customizable. You can adjust the spice level to your liking and toss in any additional toppings you love, like fresh salsa or a squeeze of lime. Enjoy these tasty tacos for a fun twist on your regular dinner routine!

Ingredients

• 1 can of tuna (drained)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 ripe avocado (sliced)
• 4 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and slightly charred.
3. Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, place a generous amount of the tuna mixture. Top with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
4. Serve: Enjoy your tacos with additional lime wedges on the side for a refreshing kick!

Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of a satisfying seafood dinner without the fuss. With its tender, flaky texture and rich, buttery sauce, this recipe brings a delicious taste of the ocean right to your table. The garlic and lemon elevate the dish, providing a refreshing zing that complements the cod beautifully.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for those who want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and you have a delightful dinner that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 cod fillets
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them, making sure they are well coated.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Over Rice

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Over Rice is a delightful seafood dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the richness of garlic, perfectly complementing succulent shrimp. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something tasty yet effortless.

The shrimp are cooked quickly in a sizzling pan, absorbing all the aromatic goodness while served over fluffy rice. It’s a dish that’s light, refreshing, and absolutely satisfying without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
3. Pour in lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.
4. Serve the shrimp over cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your meal!

Creamy Salmon Pasta

This creamy salmon pasta dish is a delightful combination of rich flavors and comforting texture, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The tender salmon pairs beautifully with the pasta, while the creamy sauce and fresh peas add a burst of color and nutrition.

What’s great about this recipe is how quick and simple it is to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal that’s both tasty and filling. Whether it’s a family dinner or a romantic evening, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
• 1 lb salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Salmon: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Remove from skillet and flake into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Serve: Gently fold in the flaked salmon and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a delightful blend of zesty lime and spicy chili that makes for a fresh and tasty seafood dish. The combination of flavors is both vibrant and refreshing, perfect for a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, taking only a few minutes to marinate and grill!

These skewers are not only tasty but also versatile. They can be served on their own, added to salads, or even tucked into tacos for a fun twist. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious seafood dinner ready in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
3. Skewering: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Fish tacos are a delightful and refreshing option for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe highlights flaky fish paired with a vibrant mango salsa, bringing a perfect blend of flavors to your plate. The sweetness of the mango complements the savory fish beautifully, making each bite a treat.

Not only are these tacos tasty, but they are also simple to prepare. In no time, you’ll have a meal that feels special but requires minimal effort, perfect for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Season the Fish: In a bowl, mix cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the fish fillets.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fish and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Stir gently to combine.
4. Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place cooked fish on each tortilla and top with the mango salsa. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.

One-Pan Seafood Paella

One-Pan Seafood Paella is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the coast right to your kitchen. This meal combines succulent shrimp and tender mussels with aromatic saffron-infused rice, making it both satisfying and colorful. The best part? It’s simple to whip up on a busy weeknight!

With just one pan to clean, you can enjoy all the deliciousness without the hassle. This paella is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and tasty option for dinner, perfect for seafood lovers and novices alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup mussels, cleaned
• 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the paprika and saffron, letting the flavors bloom for a minute.
3. Add the rice, stirring to coat it with the oil and spices. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the shrimp, mussels, and chorizo on top of the rice. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Breaded Tilapia with Tartar Sauce

Breaded tilapia is a delightful seafood dish that brings a satisfying crunch to your dinner table. The mild flavor of tilapia pairs perfectly with a crispy coating, making it a hit even among picky eaters. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to serve the fish with a homemade tartar sauce for a classic touch. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels special yet is simple enough for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 tilapia fillets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coating: Set up a breading station with three bowls. Place flour in the first bowl, beaten egg in the second bowl, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
2. Bread the Fish: Dip each tilapia fillet first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded tilapia fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the tilapia from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with tartar sauce and lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Shrimp

Zucchini noodles with pesto shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors in a light and satisfying meal. The tender zucchini strands provide a healthy alternative to traditional pasta, while the shrimp, tossed in vibrant pesto, add a burst of savory goodness. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan in the pesto pairs beautifully with the shrimp, making every bite delicious. It’s simple, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
2. Add Zucchini Noodles: Stir in the spiralized zucchini and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
3. Mix in Pesto: Remove the skillet from heat and add the basil pesto, tossing everything together until well combined.
4. Serve: Plate the zucchini noodles and shrimp, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!