Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh seafood dishes that are light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or heading to the beach for a picnic, seafood dishes are a great choice that everyone will love. In this blog, we'll explore some of the perfect seafood dishes to serve at a summer barbecue or beach picnic, along with easy-to-follow recipes that are sure to impress.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa

Grilled shrimp skewers are always a hit at summer barbecues, and this recipe takes them to the next level with a tangy and sweet mango salsa. The combination of juicy shrimp and fresh, tropical flavors is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

-1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

-2 tbsp olive oil

-1 tbsp smoked paprika

-1/2 tsp salt

-1/4 tsp black pepper

-1 large mango, diced

-1/4 cup red onion, diced

-1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

-1 lime, juiced

-Salt and pepper, to taste

-Skewers

Directions:

-Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

-In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

-Thread the shrimp onto skewers.

-Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp are cooked through and lightly charred.

-In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

-Season with salt and pepper to taste.

-Serve the grilled shrimp skewers with the mango salsa on the side.

Lobster Roll with Herb Butter

A classic New England favorite, lobster rolls are a perfect addition to any summer gathering. This recipe features a rich herb butter that pairs perfectly with the succulent lobster meat, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.

Ingredients:

-1 lb cooked lobster meat, roughly chopped

-1/2 cup mayonnaise

-1/4 cup celery, diced

-1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced

-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

-Salt and pepper, to taste

-4 hot dog buns

-2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

-1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

-1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped

-1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

-In a large bowl, combine the lobster meat, mayonnaise, celery, scallions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

-Mix well to combine, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

-Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.

-Spread butter on both sides of the hot dog buns.

-Toast the buns in the skillet until golden brown.

-In a separate bowl, mix together the chives, tarragon, and parsley.

-Spoon the lobster mixture into the toasted buns, then sprinkle the herb mixture on top.

-Serve immediately.

Another great seafood dish for summer barbecues and beach picnics is ceviche. This refreshing and flavorful dish is made with raw fish or shellfish that is "cooked" in citrus juices, then mixed with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices. Ceviche is perfect for serving on its own as an appetizer or light main course, or as a topping for tacos or tostadas.

Here's a recipe for a classic shrimp ceviche that's sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering:

Shrimp Ceviche

Ingredients:

-1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

-1/2 cup fresh lime juice

-1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

-1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

-1/4 cup chopped red onion

-1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

-1/4 teaspoon salt

-1/4 teaspoon black pepper

-2 tablespoons olive oil

-1 avocado, peeled and diced

-Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions:

-Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

-Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are pink and cooked through. 

-Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a large bowl.

-Add the lime juice, lemon juice, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the shrimp. Stir to combine.

-Cover the bowl and refrigerate the ceviche for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

-Just before serving, stir in the olive oil and diced avocado. 

-Serve the ceviche with tortilla chips.

Seafood is a versatile and delicious choice for summer barbecues and beach picnics. From classic dishes like shrimp cocktails to more unique options like grilled octopus, there is a seafood option to suit everyone's taste buds. With the recipes provided, you'll be able to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills, while also providing them with healthy and flavorful meals. Don't forget to add a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to complete the meal. With the ocean as your inspiration, the possibilities for seafood dishes are endless. So next time you're planning a summer gathering, consider incorporating some seafood into your menu and delight your guests with the flavors of the sea.