Can you figure it out, Seafoodies?
On a random night, as winter winds rattle your kitchen windows and another cold weather alert lights up your phone, you find yourself standing in front of your refrigerator, craving something to warm you to the bone. There are the usual suspects: wilted carrots, a single potato, half a carton of sour cream (hmmm, when did you buy that)? So you head to the pantry hoping for a solution, only to find stale crackers and that half-empty box of noodles that somehow survives every pantry cleanout. But then you find the solution: a can of salmon you’ve been saving for “the right recipe.” Now that I think about it, you remember the shrimp and scallops you had in the freezer! It turns out that a cold winter evening is exactly the right time to eat your seafood!
It’s funny how we’ve somehow convinced ourselves that comfort food and “healthy” food live in separate worlds, as if we have to choose between feeling good and feeling satisfied. But here’s the thing… all 20 dishes in this collection of easy-to-make winter seafood Sunday dishes include seafood as the main ingredient and are guaranteed to give you all that comfort food feeling. We’re talking meals that hug you from the inside out while secretly containing enough nutrients to fuel you through the darkest of winter days.
Like creamy shrimp alfredo pasta, which tastes like an Italian chef’s, but leaves you feeling light enough to tackle that pile of evening emails. Or, a cast iron smoked salmon hash that transforms breakfast for dinner from a last resort into a cozy celebration. And don’t let our mini seafood pies fool you! They may be small in size, but they really know how to bring that bold, comforting flavor!
Trust us when we say that these dishes are about to become your new winter cooking favorites. Proving once and for all that “healthy comfort food” isn’t an oxymoron—it’s the answer to those nights when you’re craving something that feels indulgent but doesn’t derail your wellness goals. Because not only are these dishes packed with nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and antioxidants (which help boost your immune system during these cold days), they’re also your ticket for taking 2-3 servings of seafood per week as recommended by Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
So go ahead: put on those fuzzy socks, turn on the fireplace (or stream one of those crackling videos to set the scene), and get ready to redefine your thoughts on comfort food.
Spoiler alert: healthy will taste amazing!
Cod and corn soup
If you have leftovers of this fish soup, we can attest that it makes a light and delicious lunch (so you may want to double the recipe)!
Tuna bitch
Low maintenance pantry meal alert! Avoid going to the grocery store because you will probably have everything you need for this tasty fish dinner at home.
Creamy clam chowder
A celebration of juicy clams, chunky potatoes, healthy veggies and a broth that is nothing short of heavenly – what’s not to love?!
Instant lobster bisque
We use nutrient-rich frozen lobster to make this recipe super easy to enjoy anytime, but feel free to use fresh if that floats your boat!
Shrimp gumbo
What makes our gumbo different? There is no roux! This means this recipe is quicker and lighter than traditional versions, saving you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.
Smoked trout sauce
Smoked trout usually comes in a can or bag, making it another pantry-stable seafood item and great to have on hand for recipes like this sauce.
Smoked salmon sauce
Double dipping is allowed in your personal bowl of salmon dip, and could you be kind enough to make an extra portion for your family to enjoy too!
Whether cooked on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, take our word for it, you’ll want to add this lightened-up soup to your ultimate winter menu list!
Gluten Free Crab Cakes
The recipe gives you four appetizer-sized portions, but they can easily be divided into smaller app-sized meatballs for entertaining (or small seafood)—just reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Cast iron smoked salmon hash
Delicious and decidedly healthy: this colorful dish fits beautifully, whether on a breakfast tray or served family style at the dinner table. We like options!
Pasta Alfredo with shrimp cream
Grab those forks and get ready to eat your way through our protein-packed Seafoodie take on a classic Alfredo pasta dish!
Crab Dumplings
Canned crabmeat and store-bought dumplings are the keys to making this cozy homemade meal quick and convenient!
Savor the flavor of New England with a rich blend of seafood and rich, creamy goodness, all cooked to perfection and topped with a satisfying crispy crust!
There’s no need to be intimidated! All you need is some foil and an oven to produce excellent crab legs that come out “perfect” every time!
Instant Pot Seafood Risotto
After your first forkful of this Instant Pot masterpiece, you’ll be eager to eat the leftovers, if there are any!
Mini seafood pies
Simple preparation, out-of-this-world flavor and exceptional nutrition – these pot pies have the goods!
Instant Pot Crab Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Yes, this recipe is a little more forgiving, but it has kept its place as a family favorite for good reason – try it and you’ll see why!
