25 Seafood Dishes You'll Want at Every Holiday Celebration

Seafood dishes have a way of making holiday celebrations feel extra special, don’t they? They’re perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your table while still being approachable and easy to enjoy with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or a big festive gathering, these recipes are guaranteed to impress without adding extra stress to your holiday prep.

Fish Stew with Chorizo

This hearty stew combines tender fish with the smoky flavor of chorizo, making it a standout dish for gatherings. It’s a warm, comforting option that feels festive and special. Ready in a manageable amount of time, it’s great for a main course that leaves an impression. Perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying as a family meal. A dish full of bold flavors that works beautifully for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

Panko Crusted Cod

With its crispy, golden crust and tender fish, this cod recipe is a great centerpiece for a holiday spread. It’s simple to prepare but looks and feels like a special dish. The panko adds a crunch that pairs well with the flaky cod, making it a crowd-pleaser. Great for a main course that’s both elegant and approachable. A versatile recipe that fits perfectly on any celebration table.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

This creamy bisque combines the sweetness of corn with tender shrimp for a rich, comforting dish. It’s ideal as an appetizer or a lighter main course at holiday gatherings. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it sets the tone for a memorable meal. Perfect for warming up a chilly evening with family and friends. A seafood classic that’s always welcome at the table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

This chilled salad is a perfect make-ahead option for busy holiday schedules. The shrimp adds a touch of elegance to a classic macaroni salad, making it suitable for special occasions. It’s easy to prepare in advance and works well as a side dish or light main course. Perfect for buffet-style meals or casual get-togethers. A refreshing seafood option that fits seamlessly into any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Bang Bang Shrimp

This recipe delivers crispy shrimp with a sweet and spicy kick that’s perfect for appetizers or party platters. It’s quick to make and always a hit with guests. The bold flavor profile makes it a memorable addition to holiday celebrations. Serve it as a starter or a centerpiece for a seafood spread. A fun and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Seafood Pot Pie

This pot pie is a comforting dish packed with shrimp, crab, or other seafood, all under a flaky, buttery crust. It’s an excellent choice for a holiday main course that feels warm and inviting. The combination of rich flavors and creamy filling makes it a standout on any menu. Ideal for serving family-style or in individual portions. A hearty, satisfying way to highlight seafood at your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pot Pie

Crab Fried Rice

This dish brings together tender crab with flavorful rice, creating a side or main dish that’s simple yet festive. It’s quick to prepare and versatile enough to pair with other holiday favorites. The light and savory profile makes it a refreshing addition to any meal. Great for serving buffet-style or as part of a plated dinner. A delicious way to bring seafood into your celebration menu.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Combining smoky bacon with tender shrimp, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser for any celebration. It’s quick to assemble and works beautifully as an appetizer or finger food. The salty-sweet balance makes it a memorable bite for guests. Perfect for party trays or holiday dinners where you want something a little extra special. A seafood option that’s always in demand.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

These bite-sized salmon appetizers are wrapped in crispy bacon for a flavor-packed treat. They’re quick to make and great for serving at parties or as part of a holiday appetizer spread. The rich salmon pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon, making them an instant favorite. Perfect for passing around or arranging on a festive platter. A simple but impressive option for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These skewers are a quick and easy way to add flavorful shrimp to your holiday menu. They’re perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course. The grilling adds a smoky touch that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Great for prepping ahead and cooking quickly when guests arrive. A versatile dish that works for any holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Crab Rangoon Dip

This warm, creamy dip brings the flavors of crab Rangoon to a shareable format. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for holiday parties or casual gatherings. Serve it with crackers or bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The rich, cheesy flavor with crab makes it a standout on any table. A comforting seafood dish that guests will come back to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

This all-in-one dish is perfect for a stress-free holiday main course. The salmon and vegetables cook together, saving time and minimizing cleanup. It’s a great way to serve a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for casual gatherings or a relaxed family dinner. A simple yet impressive option that highlights the natural flavors of salmon.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

This recipe delivers crunchy, golden shrimp that’s perfect for appetizers or main courses at festive gatherings. The panko coating adds a satisfying texture that pairs well with dipping sauces. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday kitchens. Serve it alongside other seafood dishes for a complete spread. A guaranteed hit with seafood fans of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Crab Melt

This open-faced sandwich combines rich crab meat with melted cheese for a comforting, flavorful dish. It’s quick to prepare and works well as a lunch or light dinner option for the holidays. Perfect for pairing with a warm soup or a fresh salad. The cheesy, seafood combination feels indulgent without being overcomplicated. A great recipe for when you want something easy but special.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

This classic tuna melt gets a modern twist with the air fryer, making it quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a holiday brunch or a cozy lunch. The crispy bread and gooey cheese make it a comforting choice for any occasion. Ideal for serving alongside other seafood favorites or a light soup. A straightforward dish that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

This sauce is a simple yet impactful way to bring out the best in salmon. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for holiday meals where you want a touch of elegance. The fresh lemon and rich butter make it a versatile addition to any seafood spread. Ideal for pairing with roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal. A go-to recipe for enhancing any salmon dish.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

These light, refreshing appetizers pair shrimp with crisp cucumber for a bite-sized treat. They’re easy to assemble and perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers. The combination of fresh ingredients makes them a standout option on any appetizer tray. Great for balancing heavier dishes on your celebration menu. A simple and elegant way to highlight shrimp.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This pasta dish combines tender shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce for a comforting meal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for serving at holiday dinners or as a main course. The flavors come together beautifully for a dish that feels special without too much effort. Pair it with a crisp salad or bread for a complete meal. A reliable option that’s sure to please seafood and pasta lovers alike.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

This creamy Alfredo pairs perfectly with tender salmon for a dish that’s ideal for holiday gatherings. It’s rich and hearty, making it a satisfying main course option. The pasta and salmon combination feels indulgent yet approachable. Quick to prepare and easy to serve family-style or plated. A versatile recipe that adds a touch of elegance to any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This stir-fry combines shrimp and broccoli in a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy holiday evenings. It’s quick to make and works well as a main course or side dish. The fresh ingredients make it a lighter option for balancing richer holiday foods. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal. A great way to include seafood in your celebrations without overcomplicating things.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

This baked fish recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for holiday meals that require a lighter touch. The lemon butter brings out the fish’s natural flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to pair with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to rice. Great for family dinners or buffet-style servings. A versatile recipe that highlights the elegance of seafood.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Shrimp Scampi

This classic shrimp scampi delivers bold garlic and butter flavors in a quick, crowd-friendly dish. It’s perfect as a main course or a centerpiece for a seafood spread. The minimal prep and cook time make it a stress-free option for holiday meals. Serve it with pasta or bread to complete the experience. A timeless recipe that fits seamlessly into any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Seafood Pasta Salad

This chilled pasta salad combines shrimp, crab, or other seafood with fresh veggies for a versatile dish. It’s ideal for serving as a side or light main course at holiday gatherings. The make-ahead nature of the recipe helps simplify your holiday prep. Perfect for potlucks or buffet-style meals. A refreshing addition to your seafood-themed menu.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

This pasta dish combines juicy tomatoes with tender shrimp for a flavorful, balanced meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for holiday dinners or casual gatherings. The light sauce makes it a refreshing choice alongside richer dishes. Serve it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A reliable recipe that works for any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Salmon Salad

This quick and easy salmon salad is a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings, combining rich flavors with a fresh, light texture. It comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy prep days when you need something reliable yet crowd-pleasing. The balance of flaky salmon and crisp ingredients works well as a starter or side dish to complement other festive dishes. It’s versatile enough to fit into any meal plan, making it a practical addition to your holiday menu. Impress your guests with a dish that feels special but requires minimal effort to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad