49 Seafood Dinners That Feel Cozy Without Feeling Too Rich

Cold weather calls for meals that feel soothing, and 49 seafood dinner recipes manage it without getting too rich. Sometimes you crave something warm and flavorful but want to keep things light. Having straightforward recipes on hand makes weeknight cooking less stressful. The right meal can turn an ordinary evening at home into something relaxing.

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate. — Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Air Fryer Shrimp

Pulling together a quick seafood dinner gets easier with this Air Fryer Shrimp. Clean flavors and a crisp coating mean the meal delivers comfort without feeling too heavy. I like making extra for salads or wraps the next day. Shrimp straight from the air fryer can make a chilly night much more fun.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Crispy Rice Tuna

Close-up of crispy rice rounds topped with diced tuna, avocado, mango, and sesame seeds, served on a beige plate with a small dish of soy sauce. — Crispy Rice Tuna. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sushi night feels easy when this Crispy Rice Tuna hits the table. The mix of textures, with crunchy rice and tender tuna, keeps things interesting every time. I make these for gatherings because finger food never goes out of style. This snack is always the first to disappear from the platter.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice Tuna

Coconut Shrimp

A bowl filled with golden-brown, breaded and fried shrimp, garnished with chopped herbs. — Coconut Shrimp. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sweet coconut brings tropical flair to this Coconut Shrimp, while the crunchy outside keeps things light. Each piece feels special for both casual nights and more festive occasions. I reach for this recipe when I need a dinner that adds a fun twist to colder days. Dipping sauces help each bite stand out.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp

Conch Fritters

A plate of golden-brown fritters garnished with chopped herbs, served with a dipping sauce and a wedge of lemon. — Conch Fritters. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Tucking into these Conch Fritters gives you crispy edges and a warm, tender center. Their golden color matches late winter’s need for cheer, especially at dinnertime. I plate them with a squeeze of lemon or a favorite sauce. Bite-sized fritters deliver comfort with every piece.
Get the Recipe: Conch Fritters

Crispy Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread. — Crispy Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Toast meets shrimp for a party classic in this Crispy Shrimp Toast. Each triangle offers crunch and a little bit of richness, perfect for an appetizer spread. I find these work well for game nights or snacking situations that call for something hot. Expect these to vanish quickly once served.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

Clam Chowder

A bowl of creamy soup with clams, bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley, placed on a pink surface next to a spoon and some fresh herbs. — Clam Chowder. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy, rich broth supports chunks of clam and potato in this Clam Chowder. Every spoonful brings a wave of warmth and makes you want to linger at the table just a little longer. I serve steaming bowls after outdoor walks or snow days. Hearty soup like this feels perfect for late winter evenings.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Fried Shrimp

Tucking into these Fried Shrimp means golden, crunchy bites that satisfy without weighing you down. The shrimp’s sweet flavor stands out against its crispy shell. I make a big batch for casual dinners or party platters. Each bite feels like a reason to gather around the table.
Get the Recipe: Fried Shrimp

Flaky Air Fryer Cod

Image of cooked air fryer cod fillets seasoned with herbs and garnished with lemon wedges and parsley on a plate. — Flaky Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Flaky fish and a crisp coating make this Flaky Air Fryer Cod a weeknight hero. The texture is just right for pairing with coleslaw or tucking into sandwiches. I rely on recipes like this for meals that taste cozy but leave you feeling light. Cod always brings a touch of brightness to winter dinners.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Air Fryer Cod

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing. — Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spicy shrimp meets cool dressing in this Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. The fresh greens and zippy sauce keep every forkful lively on chilly nights. I toss this salad together for a quick dinner that feels just a little extra. Balanced salads help make winter a little less gray.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Crawfish Etouffee

A bowl of crawfish étouffée garnished with chopped green onions and herbs, served in a light-colored dish. — Crawfish Etouffee. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Thick, spicy sauce and tender crawfish define this Crawfish Etouffee. Cooking up a pot brings smells and flavors reminiscent of cozy kitchens. I ladle generous portions over rice to chase away the winter blues. Large bowls invite everyone to slow down and warm up.
Get the Recipe: Crawfish Etouffee

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, purple cabbage, carrots, greens, and topped with chopped peanuts and peanut sauce, served on a plate. — Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

All the crunch and pop of fresh vegetables fill these Shrimp Spring Rolls. Each roll delivers a bright bite that wakes up the senses, even when days get dreary. I set out a dipping sauce and a plateful disappears in no time. Rolls like this are perfect for a lighter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos

Tacos with grilled salmon, purple cabbage, corn, jalapeño slices, cilantro, and drizzled with white sauce on tortillas. — Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spices and smoky char wake up these Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos. The filling holds bold flavors while leaving you satisfied yet refreshed. I fill each tortilla with colorful toppings for an eye-catching meal. Salmon tacos keep late winter fun without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Blackened Salmon Tacos

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Three glasses of shrimp cocktail with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro garnish in a tomato-based sauce, placed on a light-colored surface. — Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp veggies and sweet shrimp come alive in this Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. A tangy, bright sauce makes it a favorite when you need something different on the menu. I chill bowls of this ahead for low-key dinners with flavor that packs a punch. Seafood cocktails add a splash of excitement to cold evenings.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Kimchi Stew

Slow heat and savory broth star in this Kimchi Stew. Chunky veggies and seafood make for a rustic meal, perfect for huddling up on cold nights. I enjoy this stew when regular recipes feel too expected. Late winter finds new flavor in a steaming bowl like this.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Shrimp Fried Rice

Quick stir fry brings together comfort and brightness with this Shrimp Fried Rice. Each spoonful boasts a mix of flavors and colors, shaking up what dinner can be. I reach for fried rice on nights with leftovers or little time. This recipe is the answer for busy weeks that still deserve a cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background. — Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy filling gets an upgrade with this Salmon Deviled Eggs appetizer. Sweet and smoky fish pairs beautifully with classic eggs for a standout start. I set these out at parties for something different from the usual snacks. Everyone is surprised at how quickly they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Maryland Crab Cake

Lump crab bound together with just enough to hold its shape makes this Maryland Crab Cake a show stopper. The texture is pure comfort, while the flavor is all about simple luxury. I cook these for a cozy seafood dinner or special winter treat. Crab cakes bring the coast to your home no matter the weather.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice with peas, eggs, and diced vegetables being stirred with a wooden spatula. — Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Lighter dinners shine with this Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice on the menu. Swapping out regular rice gives every plate more veggies without sacrificing flavor. I make this as a quick meal after busy afternoons or workouts. You feel full and content, but not weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate. — Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Translucent wrappers show off colorful veggies in these Rice Paper Rolls. Fresh fillings crunch in each bite, with shrimp adding just enough richness. I bring these out for dinners that need something light yet memorable. Serving with dipping sauce is half the fun.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Sheet Pan Salmon

Baked salmon fillets garnished with lemon slices, served with roasted broccoli, asparagus, potatoes, and garlic cloves on a sheet pan. — Sheet Pan Salmon. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Simple prep and easy clean up make this Sheet Pan Salmon a favorite go-to meal. Flaky fish paired with roasted veggies keeps things balanced on winter nights. I remake this recipe for fast, no-fuss dinners that still look impressive. Roasting everyone’s favorite fish means no one goes hungry.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon

Shrimp Etouffee

A bowl of white rice topped with cooked shrimp, diced tomatoes, green onions, and sauce, garnished with chopped herbs and lime wedges. — Shrimp Etouffee. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Robust sauce meets succulent shrimp in this Shrimp Etouffee. Every plate delivers a hit of Southern comfort while staying light on the finish. I reach for this dish when I want a break from cold-weather routines. Rich flavor doesn’t have to mean heavy food.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Etouffee

Salmon Caesar Salad

Close-up of a Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, shredded chicken, grated cheese, and a creamy dressing. — Salmon Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crisp lettuce and flaky salmon combine for a meal in this Salmon Caesar Salad. The creamy and delicious dressing takes everything to the next level without feeling rich. I toss this together for quick lunches or light dinners. Simple salads make seafood shine.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad

Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate. — Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm, gooey filling is tucked between crispy slices in this Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. This update on a classic keeps the nostalgia while offering speedy cleanup. I toast up two at a time for lunch or casual dinners. Tuna melts are perfect for late-winter comfort eating.
Get the Recipe: Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Shrimp Scampi

Close-up of cooked shrimp seasoned with herbs and black pepper. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Garlic and lemon brighten this Shrimp Scampi, making pasta something special. Buttery sauce brings comfort while shrimp keeps things lighter than your usual winter fare. I twirl up extra servings for guests who drop by unannounced. Scampi is one of those dishes that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Marry Me Salmon

Grilled salmon fillet topped with a creamy herb sauce, served next to a portion of white rice. — Marry Me Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

New recipe favorites start with this Marry Me Salmon. Creamy sauce and tender fish win over anyone craving a warm meal after a cold day. I serve this with roasted vegetables or over rice for a dinner that feels fancy without much effort. Seafood finds a special place at the table here.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside. — Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet mango and crisp greens brighten this Mango Shrimp Salad, chasing winter away. Zingy dressing keeps things lively in every forkful. I reach for this salad when heavy dinners need a break, but flavor still matters. Mango and shrimp together make the meal feel like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Tom Yum Soup

Lemongrass and herbs infuse every sip of this Tom Yum Soup. Light broth, seafood, and veggies all come together for a bowl full of comfort and refreshment. I heat this soup for a quick winter lunch that still feels nourishing. Tangy, spicy flavors help everyone feel warm inside.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Spicy Tuna Bowl

A bowl of white rice topped with sliced cucumber, shredded nori, chopped green onions, and a portion of tuna, with a pair of chopsticks resting on top. — Spicy Tuna Bowl. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A little heat and a lot of color make this Spicy Tuna Bowl an eye-catching dinner fix. Every ingredient gets a chance to shine, from glossy tuna to crunchy veggies. I spoon up these bowls when takeout sushi just isn’t the right call. Homemade tuna bowls are always worth the minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Bowl

Shrimp Cocktail

Plump shrimp and cool sauce serve as a starter that never goes out of style in this Shrimp Cocktail. Chilled appetizers like this work for casual nights or as the lead-in to bigger meals. I chill a platter for small gatherings, even a regular night feels a little special. Sometimes all you want is something familiar done right.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Sushi Bake

New flavors blend in this warm, cozy Sushi Bake. Each serving melts together creamy, salty, and crisp bites, perfect for feeding a bunch of hungry friends. I pop this in the oven for potlucks and kid-friendly parties. Low fuss with big flavor means dinner doesn’t have to be a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Baked Salmon

Cooked salmon fillet garnished with lemon slices and herbs, with a fork flaking the fish on a plate with sauce. — Baked Salmon. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fresh fillets become the star of your table with this Baked Salmon. Flaky fish and simple seasoning let the seafood do the talking with every bite. I make this for holiday dinners and easy weekends alike. Salmon bakes to a perfect finish with barely any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Baked Salmon

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions. — Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet, spicy sauce clings to every piece of this Bang Bang Shrimp. Crisp texture makes each bite memorable, and the bright sauce brings a smile even on gray days. I serve this dish as an appetizer or piled on rice. Crowd-pleasers like this help winter feel shorter.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives. — Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tender lobster tucked inside a soft bun turns dinner into something special with this Lobster Roll. Fresh, cool flavors offer relief from the rich foods of heavier months. I build these rolls for celebrations or simple nights when I want something just a bit fancier than usual. Sometimes, seafood in a bun beats any plated meal.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray. — Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Toasted bread acts as a stage for endless combinations in these Crostini Appetizers. Leftover seafood, creamy spreads, or roasted veggies all work here, making mini bites possible in minutes. I lay out trays for holiday parties because everyone gets to pick their favorite. Appetizers like this mean no one is left waiting for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. — Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sharing a plate of this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta feels perfect for date nights indoors. Creamy sauce hugs the noodles, while shrimp adds a fresh pop in every bite. I turn to this on days that need a little extra warmth and care. Everything you want from pasta without overdoing it.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish. — Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Wide noodles and juicy seafood set this Thai Drunken Noodles recipe apart. The spicy, slightly sweet sauce coats everything for an effortless dinner win. I love making this when the fridge needs emptying of veggies and leftover proteins. Thai noodles turn any evening into a celebration of heat and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla. — Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy cabbage, shrimp, and quick toppings keep these Shrimp Tacos light and lively. Warm tortillas help create a dinner that doesn’t weigh you down, even on cold nights. I fix these for fast, flavor-packed meals everyone can customize. Simple tacos never go out of season.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

California Roll Sushi Bowl

A bowl of sushi rice topped with diced avocado, raw fish, seaweed, carrots, black sesame seeds, and a creamy orange sauce. — California Roll Sushi Bowl. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Unrolling sushi makes this California Roll Sushi Bowl easier than ever. Candied ginger, cool crab, and crunchy cucumber fill up a bowl in minutes. I assemble these when I crave sushi but want a cozier, more relaxed meal. Every bite keeps things fun and unfussy.
Get the Recipe: California Roll Sushi Bowl

Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side. — Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Subtle spice and light crunch bring this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp to the dinner table. Each shrimp is full of punch without feeling over the top. I cook these for special occasions or as an exciting change from typical winter recipes. Salt and pepper keep things classic yet new.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Salmon Patties

Golden patties offer another way to enjoy seafood’s best traits in this Salmon Patties recipe. Moist centers and crisp edges make them perfect as a main dish or casual sandwich filler. I freeze extras for quick lunches throughout the week. Homemade patties always taste like comfort.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Patties

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños. — Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light, airy batter coats each shrimp in this Shrimp Tempura. The result is a bite that feels special enough for a cold-weather celebration. I use this for family-style platters and dipping nights at home. Tempura shrimp bring a little fun and crunch to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Tuna Casserole

Warm pasta, tender tuna, and a crispy topping define this Tuna Casserole. It’s reliable on busy nights when only cozy food will do. I pop this into the oven when my freezer is low and pantry ingredients call. Weeknight casseroles make everyone glad to stay in.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Casserole

Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of fettuccine pasta with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper. — Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy pasta and shrimp blend for the perfect bite in this Shrimp Alfredo. Silky white sauce and just enough seafood leave you satisfied but not sluggish. I ladle up big bowls for movie nights or relaxed weekends with friends. This pasta proves comfort doesn’t have to mean heavy food.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

Smoked Mackerel Pate

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light brown spread, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices. — Smoked Mackerel Pate. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Smoky, spreadable fish stars in this Smoked Mackerel Pate, perfect for crackers or celery. The flavor feels rich, yet the portion size keeps everything balanced and fresh. I keep some on hand for quick appetizers or snacks on the go. Pate is a cozy way to bring seafood to the party.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Crab Rangoon

A bowl of fried wontons served with a side of red dipping sauce and a small dish of chopped green onions. — Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy wrappers and creamy filling pair up in this Crab Rangoon. Each folded bite promises a little surprise, making it a favorite for gatherings. I line them up on platters for appetizers that everyone grabs first. Crab rangoons go perfectly with spring rolls and fried rice.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro. — Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fluffy rice, bold shrimp, and vivid toppings bring dinner alive in these Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Each bowl packs comfort with just enough brightness for winter. I built a line of toppings so everyone can make their own bowl just the way they want. Filling and fresh, this dinner keeps spirits high.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Hot Crab Dip

A spoon lifts a portion of cheesy baked pasta topped with chopped parsley from a casserole dish. — Hot Crab Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Creamy, bubbling dip gives you all the best parts of seafood snacks in this Hot Crab Dip. Every scoop with a cracker or crudité delivers rich taste without being too much. I bake this for gatherings during the colder months. Seafood makes the dip feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab Dip

Thai Fried Rice

A plate of shrimp fried rice with pieces of scrambled egg, green onions, and leafy vegetables. — Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

It only takes a bowlful of this Thai Fried Rice to bring new flavors to the table without feeling weighed down. Mix-ins offer crunch and color, turning leftovers into an exciting dinner. I stir fry batches for busy nights. Fried rice always manages to fix a rough day.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Crisp shrimp meets sticky rice for a sushi roll that makes any dinner exciting with this Shrimp Tempura Roll. Each slice lines up everything people love about takeout, just at home and warmer. I slice up rolls for party platters or family sushi nights. Homemade always beats delivery.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll