Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy shellfish recipes that will take your seafood game to the next level! Whether you’re a shrimp aficionado, a lobster lover, or a mussels enthusiast, we’ve got you covered. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Clam Chowder with Bacon and Thyme, to bold and daring options like Cajun Grilled Lobster Tails and Spicy Crawfish Boil with Corn and Potatoes, these recipes will add a kick of excitement to your culinary routine.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of spicy shellfish and share our favorite recipes that combine succulent seafood with bold flavors and spices. From the comfort of your own kitchen, you can recreate dishes like Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce and Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
In this classic Italian-American dish, succulent shrimp are cooked to perfection with garlic, butter, and white wine, served with toasted pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet. Simmer for 1 minute.
6. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted.
7. Add reserved pasta cooking water if sauce becomes too thick.
8. Combine cooked fettuccine, shrimp, and garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Grilled Lobster Tails
Experience the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine with this simple and flavorful recipe for grilled lobster tails.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (about 1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and lemon juice.
3. Brush the lobster tails with the melted butter, then sprinkle the Cajun-lemon mixture evenly over each tail.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the lobster tails for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Spicy Thai Coconut Mussels
Elevate your seafood game with this spicy and savory recipe that combines the brininess of mussels with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mussels, coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; cover and cook until mussels are open (about 5 minutes).
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Crab Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and flavorful dish that combines succulent crab meat with a zesty lemon garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the crab mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Scallops with Avocado Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this easy and impressive dish that combines succulent scallops, a spicy blackening seasoning, and a refreshing avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and garlic powder.
3. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Coat each scallop in the blackening mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until scallops are cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño pepper in a bowl. Stir gently.
7. Serve blackened scallops with a spoonful of avocado salsa and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Lime Grilled Prawns
Add a burst of flavor to your summer gatherings with this refreshing and spicy prawn recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons chili lime marinade (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Chili Lime Marinade:
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together chili lime marinade ingredients.
2. Place prawns in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove prawns from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Brush prawns with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Clam Chowder with Bacon and Thyme
Warm up with this creamy, savory chowder featuring tender clams, crispy bacon, and a hint of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the butter to the pot, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the clams, clam juice, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the clams open.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Chipotle Butter
Grilled Oysters with Chipotle Butter Recipe
Elevate your oyster game with this smoky and spicy twist on a classic appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 freshly shucked oysters
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, chopped chipotle peppers, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the oysters with the chipotle butter mixture.
4. Place oysters on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re lightly charred and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garlicky Steamed Littleneck Clams
Savor the sweet flavor of fresh littleneck clams infused with garlic and lemon in this quick and easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot or steamer basket with a tight-fitting lid over high heat.
2. In the pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the clams to the pot, along with the white wine (if using) and lemon juice.
4. Cover the pot and steam the clams for 5-7 minutes, or until they open.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
6. Serve immediately, with crusty bread on the side for sopping up any remaining juices.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Crawfish Boil with Corn and Potatoes
This classic Southern-style boil combines the flavors of spicy sausage, succulent crawfish, and tender vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs crawfish tails
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 4-6 corn on the cob, husked and silked
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges and hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot or Dutch oven with enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the sliced sausage, corn, potatoes, onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, and paprika to the boiling water.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the crawfish tails to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they turn bright red and are fully cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges and hot sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and citrusy dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let melt.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the scallops to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, add the lemon juice and capers. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the scallops with the Lemon Caper Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creole Shrimp and Grits
Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana with this classic Creole dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce served over creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups cooked grits (hominy or stone-ground cornmeal)
– Chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, Creole seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes; simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve shrimp mixture over grits; garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Red Curry Mussels
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this succulent mussel dish, infused with the spicy and aromatic essence of red curry paste.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add mussels, coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; cook, covered, until mussels open, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese
A rich and decadent dish that combines the flavors of lobster, cream, and Gruyère cheese, this Lobster Thermidor is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5 pound) lobster tail
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
3. Cook lobster tail according to package instructions or steam for 8-10 minutes, until opaque and flaky.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cognac (if using) and ignite; cook until flames die out.
6. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Arrange lobster tail in baking dish and spoon cream mixture over top.
8. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the lobster.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Grilled Garlic Butter King Crab Legs
Add a touch of luxury to your next seafood gathering with these succulent Grilled Garlic Butter King Crab Legs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king crab legs, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Place crab legs on the grill, shell side down. Brush with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the crab is lightly charred and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cioppino (Italian Seafood Stew)
A hearty and flavorful seafood stew originating from San Francisco’s Italian-American community, Cioppino is a perfect dish for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add clams, mussels, shrimp, tomatoes, wine, and oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa
Bring the Caribbean islands to your table with this flavorful Jerk Shrimp recipe, served with a refreshing Pineapple Salsa. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Shrimp:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve the grilled shrimp with Pineapple Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this succulent shrimp dish, infused with aromatic garlic and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Sprinkle with smoked paprika (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
6. Serve immediately, with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful culinary journey with these 18 spicy shellfish recipes! From classic shrimp scampi to bold lobster tails and mussels cooked in Thai coconut curry sauce, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover the secrets to pan-seared scallops with lemon caper sauce, spicy crawfish boils, and more. Treat your taste buds to a Mediterranean-inspired clam chowder with bacon and thyme, or explore international flavors like Spanish garlic shrimp and Jamaican jerk prawns. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and spicy, these recipes have got you covered!
