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The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence, rich flavors, and festive meals shared with friends and family.
However, if you’re looking to keep your holiday eating light and healthy without sacrificing taste, low sodium seafood dishes can be the perfect solution.
Seafood is naturally packed with lean proteins, essential omega-3 fatty acids, and a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Paired with minimal added sodium, these dishes can be both delicious and heart-friendly.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or need ideas for an elegant appetizer, our collection of 35+ low sodium seafood recipes will ensure your holiday celebrations are as healthy as they are memorable.
In this article, you’ll find everything from simple yet sophisticated main courses to hearty soups, starters, and sides that will impress your guests and keep you feeling your best.
From shrimp and crab to fish and mussels, these recipes are designed to bring out the natural, delicate flavors of seafood while staying within a low-sodium profile.
35+ Delicious Holiday Low Sodium Seafood Recipes to Brighten Your Table
The holiday season should be a time of joy, warmth, and shared moments around the table.
By choosing low sodium seafood recipes, you’re ensuring that those moments are made even better by nourishing your body with healthy, delicious food.
These 35+ recipes not only offer variety but also highlight the versatility and rich flavors of seafood, perfect for any celebration.
From vibrant shrimp scampi to comforting clam chowder, you can create dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Remember, holiday meals don’t have to come at the expense of your health.
With these thoughtfully crafted recipes, you can enjoy a festive season that delights the taste buds and keeps you feeling great.
So, the next time you’re planning your holiday menu, consider adding a few of these low sodium seafood recipes to make your feast healthier, lighter, and just as festive.
Lemon Herb Baked Salmon
A bright and healthy main course that celebrates the freshness of seafood while being low in sodium. This baked salmon is infused with lemon juice and fragrant herbs for a simple yet elegant holiday dish.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dill, parsley, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Rub the herb mixture evenly over each salmon fillet. Place a few slices of lemon on top of each piece.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve warm with additional lemon wedges if desired.
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a simple side of quinoa for a balanced holiday meal. The fresh herbs and citrus enhance the natural flavors of the salmon without needing extra salt, making it a healthy and festive choice.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This shrimp scampi delivers classic flavors with a holiday twist, packed with garlic and just a hint of citrus. The low sodium nature of this dish ensures that it’s both heart-healthy and enjoyable for everyone at your holiday table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt.
- Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Stir in the lemon juice and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in the parsley. Season with black pepper as desired.
- Serve immediately with a side of steamed rice or pasta. Optionally, sprinkle with a touch of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
The garlic butter sauce pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a dish that feels luxurious and festive without any added sodium. This shrimp scampi is an easy way to impress your holiday guests with minimal effort.
Low Sodium Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli
These crab cakes are made with fresh crab meat and packed with herbs, served with a low-sodium aioli that gives just the right amount of heat. They’re perfect for an appetizer or light main course during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Spicy Aioli
- 1/2 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Sriracha (or adjust to taste)
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, green onions, red bell pepper, beaten eggs, cilantro, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Form the mixture into 8 patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the cakes are cooking, prepare the aioli by mixing Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Sriracha, and black pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the spiciness to your preference.
- Serve the crab cakes warm, drizzled with spicy aioli and a side of arugula or a light salad.
These crab cakes are tender, flavorful, and ideal for a holiday gathering. The aioli adds a little heat and zest, balancing the crab’s natural sweetness without adding excess salt. A great way to celebrate the season with a dish that’s both satisfying and good for you.
Herb-Crusted Cod with Roasted Vegetables
This dish is a holiday showstopper that is both nutritious and simple to prepare. With a blend of fresh herbs and a lemony twist, this herb-crusted cod pairs beautifully with roasted seasonal vegetables, making it a perfect centerpiece for any low-sodium holiday spread.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (low sodium)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- Seasonal vegetables (e.g., carrots, Brussels sprouts, zucchini), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and garlic powder. Mix until evenly combined.
- Rub the cod fillets with olive oil and season with black pepper. Place them on the baking sheet.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture onto each fillet, ensuring an even crust.
- Arrange the chopped vegetables around the cod on the baking sheet. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and season with black pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The vegetables should be tender and lightly caramelized.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.
The herb crust provides a lovely texture and rich, aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the mildness of the cod. Paired with the roasted vegetables, this dish is a complete and satisfying holiday meal that’s easy on the sodium but full of taste.
Citrus-Glazed Shrimp Skewers
These citrus-glazed shrimp skewers are a bright, zesty dish that will add a splash of holiday cheer to your table. The simple marinade and grilling method highlight the natural sweetness of the shrimp while keeping things low in sodium.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, honey, cilantro, cumin, and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the shrimp onto the skewers and place them on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
- Serve the skewers with a side of brown rice or a fresh green salad.
These shrimp skewers are light, refreshing, and packed with citrusy flavor. The hint of honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, making them an easy and impressive choice for a holiday appetizer or main course.
Baked Stuffed Lobster Tails
Elevate your holiday celebration with this decadent yet low-sodium baked stuffed lobster tail recipe. Each tail is filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, perfect for indulging in a special holiday meal without the excessive sodium content.
Ingredients
- 2 large lobster tails, split lengthwise
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking rack in a shallow baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Place the lobster tails on the prepared baking rack, shell side down.
- Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the lobster meat, pressing it down slightly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, tangy touch.
These stuffed lobster tails offer a touch of luxury while still being mindful of sodium intake. The garlic and herbs infuse the lobster with delightful flavors, creating a dish that’s perfect for celebrating the holiday season in style.
Citrus and Herb Salmon Pouches
These salmon pouches are perfect for a hassle-free, low-sodium holiday main course. Steamed in a flavorful blend of citrus and herbs, the salmon stays moist and tender while absorbing fresh, bright flavors that enhance its natural taste.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Black pepper, to taste
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil for pouches
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four pieces of parchment paper or foil, each large enough to make a pouch around one salmon fillet.
- Lay a slice of orange, lemon, and lime on each piece of parchment or foil. Place a salmon fillet on top of the citrus slices.
- Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and sprinkle with black pepper. Top with the chopped dill and parsley.
- Fold the paper or foil around the salmon to form a sealed pouch. Place the pouches on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
- Carefully open the pouches and serve the salmon directly on a plate with the citrus slices.
These salmon pouches make an impressive holiday dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. The citrus slices infuse the fish with a subtle tang, while the herbs add a fresh, aromatic touch. It’s a stress-free recipe that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Low Sodium Seafood Paella
This seafood paella combines a variety of fresh seafood and aromatic herbs with a rich, saffron-infused rice base. A festive dish perfect for serving at holiday gatherings, it’s vibrant, full of flavor, and light on sodium.
Ingredients
- 1 cup arborio or short-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1/2 pound squid rings
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet or paella pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Add the red bell pepper and tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the rice, saffron, and smoked paprika, ensuring the rice is well coated with the oil and spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the shrimp, mussels, and squid to the rice, arranging them evenly. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened.
- Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a touch of acidity.
This seafood paella is perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing together the luxurious flavors of the ocean with a bright, festive appearance. The use of saffron adds an authentic Spanish touch without the need for excessive salt, allowing the natural flavors of the seafood to shine.
Spicy Garlic Lemon Scallops
These spicy garlic lemon scallops are a quick and elegant low-sodium appetizer or main dish that will add a festive touch to your holiday meal. The delicate sweetness of the scallops pairs perfectly with a tangy, garlicky sauce with just a hint of heat.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and opaque.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside. Pour the lemon juice over the scallops and toss gently.
- Sprinkle the scallops with black pepper and chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
These spicy garlic lemon scallops are a showy and delicious way to celebrate the holidays. Their tender, sweet texture is perfectly complemented by the zesty lemon and subtle heat from the red pepper flakes. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is mindful of sodium, making it a great choice for special occasions.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Asparagus
This garlic butter shrimp with asparagus is a light, elegant holiday dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or main course. The simplicity of the recipe lets the fresh flavors shine, with juicy shrimp and crisp-tender asparagus infused with a rich, garlicky butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with black pepper and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the asparagus. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, pour in the lemon juice, and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh touch.
This dish is quick to prepare and brings a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The garlic butter adds a rich, luxurious note to the shrimp while the asparagus provides a satisfying crunch, making it perfect for holiday entertaining.
Low Sodium Clam Chowder
Warm up your holiday gathering with a bowl of hearty, low-sodium clam chowder. This classic soup is rich and creamy, loaded with tender clams, potatoes, and subtle hints of thyme and bay leaf, all without the added salt.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 pound fresh clams, cleaned and chopped (or 1 can of clams, drained and rinsed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, bay leaf, black pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the whole milk and heavy cream, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add the clams and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Discard the bay leaf.
- Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
This low-sodium clam chowder offers all the comforting flavors of the classic dish, but with a healthier twist. The creamy base and tender clams make it a satisfying addition to your holiday table that guests will love.
Lemon Dill Baked Trout
This lemon dill baked trout is a fresh and festive holiday dish that is both light and full of flavor. It’s easy to make, elegant, and perfect for serving with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
- 2 whole trout, cleaned and gutted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 sprigs fresh dill
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Rub the outside and inside of each trout with olive oil. Season with black pepper and smoked paprika.
- Stuff each trout with lemon slices, fresh dill, and garlic slices. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top of each fish.
- Place the trout in the prepared baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Transfer the trout to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.
This lemon dill baked trout brings a beautiful balance of flavors that highlight the natural taste of the fish. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a special holiday gathering, providing a healthy, flavorful main course.
Herb-Crusted Baked Cod
This herb-crusted baked cod is a light, healthy, and flavorful holiday main course. The crispy herb coating adds texture and a delightful burst of fresh flavor to the mild, flaky cod. It’s simple to prepare and pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the cod fillets and rub to coat evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over each fillet, pressing it down gently to adhere.
- Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of fresh flavor.
The herb-crusted baked cod is an easy way to bring an elegant touch to your holiday table. The combination of herbs, spices, and Parmesan gives it a beautiful, crispy exterior, while the cod remains tender and moist on the inside. It’s an ideal dish for entertaining guests or enjoying a special meal at home.
Low Sodium Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles
This low-sodium shrimp scampi with zoodles (zucchini noodles) is a healthy twist on a classic dish. The zoodles provide a light, gluten-free base, while the shrimp is bathed in a garlic-lemon sauce with a hint of parsley. It’s a perfect holiday appetizer or main course that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Pour the white wine into the skillet (if using) and allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any bits on the bottom of the pan.
- Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until they start to soften. Add the lemon juice and toss the noodles.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, and stir to combine. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve the shrimp scampi over the zoodles and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
This shrimp scampi with zoodles is a light and refreshing holiday dish that pairs well with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. The lemony, garlicky sauce brightens the dish while the zoodles keep it low-carb and healthy. It’s perfect for those who want a flavorful dish that won’t weigh them down.
Lemon Herb Mussels with White Wine
These lemon herb mussels with white wine make an excellent appetizer or main dish for a holiday feast. They’re cooked in a delicate white wine broth infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, making them light, zesty, and bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for sharing and impresses with its sophisticated yet simple preparation.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and add the black pepper, smoked paprika, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the mussels to the pot and cover. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
- Transfer the mussels and broth to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a hint of brightness.
These lemon herb mussels are a show-stopping dish that’s both elegant and light, making them perfect for a holiday meal. The white wine broth is aromatic and infused with the flavors of garlic, lemon, and herbs, creating a dish that’s full of freshness and coastal charm.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!