50+ Delicious January Seafood Recipes to Kickstart Your New Year

As winter settles in and the New Year begins, many of us are searching for warm, comforting dishes to enjoy throughout the month of January.

Seafood, with its rich variety and health benefits, is the perfect choice for those looking to spice up their winter menu.

Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or a hearty, flavorful dish, January offers an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the best seafood the season has to offer.

From classic shrimp and lobster dishes to innovative takes on traditional seafood fare, this collection of over 50 seafood recipes is designed to inspire.

With the bounty of the ocean available year-round, January is the perfect time to explore new tastes and indulge in a wide array of seafood recipes that will warm you up and excite your taste buds.

In this article, you’ll discover a curated list of mouthwatering seafood recipes that will help you start the year with fresh, flavorful meals.

These dishes are not only delicious but also offer a range of health benefits, packed with nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins.

So, let’s dive into the world of January seafood recipes and start cooking up something special today!

50+ Delicious January Seafood Recipes to Kickstart Your New Year

As you dive into these 50+ January seafood recipes, you’ll discover the endless possibilities that fresh seafood offers.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, these dishes will elevate your dining experience and bring a taste of the ocean into your kitchen.

From light, refreshing salads to hearty, soul-warming chowders, there’s a seafood dish for every craving.

So, embrace the flavors of the sea this January. With these recipes, you’ll be able to enjoy the best seafood in a variety of creative ways.

Whether you’re new to cooking with seafood or a seasoned chef, these recipes will inspire you to experiment, savor, and enjoy the best of what the ocean has to offer this winter.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet

A quick and flavorful seafood recipe perfect for cozy January dinners. This dish features tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of fresh parsley and lemon. It’s versatile and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the butter, allowing it to melt and coat the shrimp.
5. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

The rich and zesty garlic butter sauce elevates the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a go-to for January meals. Its simplicity ensures you can whip it up quickly, while its flavor feels like a special treat.

Crispy Baked Cod with Lemon Herb Crust

A healthy yet indulgent seafood recipe for January, this baked cod is coated in a golden herb-infused crust. It’s light, flaky, and loaded with the refreshing flavors of lemon and parsley, making it a perfect dinner for the winter season.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the cod fillets dry, season lightly with salt, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Press the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the tops of the fillets.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

The crispy topping adds a satisfying crunch to the delicate cod, while the lemon and herbs enhance its freshness. This recipe is wholesome and versatile, perfect for pairing with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Creamy Seafood Chowder

A hearty and comforting January recipe, this creamy seafood chowder is packed with tender chunks of fish, shrimp, and scallops. It’s a warming bowl of goodness, ideal for cold winter evenings.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb (225 g) white fish (e.g., cod), cut into chunks
• 1/2 lb (225 g) scallops
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually pour in the seafood stock, stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add potatoes and thyme, cooking until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer. Add shrimp, fish, and scallops, and cook until the seafood is just cooked through, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This chowder is a luxurious way to enjoy seafood in the heart of winter. The creamy broth and tender seafood create a satisfying, comforting dish that brings warmth to chilly nights.

Lemon Garlic Grilled Salmon

This vibrant and healthy grilled salmon recipe is infused with the tangy flavors of lemon and garlic. Perfect for brightening up your January meals, it’s simple to prepare yet feels gourmet, making it an excellent choice for weeknights or small gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 20-30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

The combination of citrusy lemon and aromatic garlic enhances the natural richness of the salmon, resulting in a dish that feels both light and indulgent. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Spicy Seafood Pasta with Tomato Sauce

This hearty and flavorful pasta dish combines shrimp and scallops with a spicy, garlicky tomato sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food to warm you up during the cold January evenings.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb scallops
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, white wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp and scallops to the sauce, cooking until they are opaque and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
5. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.

The bold flavors of the spicy tomato sauce pair beautifully with the delicate sweetness of the shrimp and scallops. This dish is a satisfying way to enjoy seafood and pasta in a cozy winter meal.

Pan-Seared Scallops with Herb Butter

Pan-seared scallops are an elegant yet easy dish to whip up in January. These golden, tender scallops are drizzled with a luscious herb butter sauce, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions:

1. Season scallops with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in parsley and lemon juice, then drizzle the herb butter over the scallops.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as risotto or steamed vegetables.

These pan-seared scallops are rich and buttery, with just the right amount of freshness from the lemon and parsley. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them a delightful centerpiece for a sophisticated yet approachable winter dinner.

Seafood Paella

This Spanish-inspired seafood paella is a flavorful and festive dish, perfect for celebrating the end of winter and the start of a new season. With a variety of seafood, aromatic spices, and colorful vegetables, it’s a dish that feels like a celebration in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb mussels, cleaned
• 1/2 lb squid, sliced into rings
• 1 cup Arborio rice or paella rice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads (or turmeric as a substitute)
• 1 1/2 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or paella pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the rice, paprika, saffron, and cayenne pepper, stirring to coat the rice with the spices.
3. Pour in the white wine and let it cook off for 2-3 minutes. Add the tomatoes, seafood stock, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then bring to a simmer.
4. Cover the pan and cook the rice for 10-12 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add the shrimp, mussels, and squid to the pan. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Seafood paella brings a variety of textures and flavors together, with tender seafood, rich spices, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a complete meal in one pan and perfect for a special dinner.

Baked Lobster Tail with Garlic Herb Butter

Lobster tail is the epitome of luxury, and this baked version with a garlic herb butter is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a special January treat. The tender meat combined with a rich, garlicky butter sauce will impress any seafood lover.

Ingredients:

• 4 lobster tails
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Using kitchen shears, cut along the top of the lobster shells to expose the meat. Pull the lobster meat up and over the top of the shell, leaving the end attached.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet, and brush them generously with the garlic herb butter mixture.
5. Bake the lobster tails for 12-15 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and tender.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

This baked lobster tail is a truly decadent dish, with tender, sweet lobster meat complemented by the richness of the garlic butter. It’s a dish that feels both celebratory and comforting, perfect for an elegant winter meal.

Coconut Curry Shrimp

This creamy, slightly spicy coconut curry shrimp dish is a wonderful way to enjoy seafood with bold, rich flavors. The combination of coconut milk, curry spices, and shrimp makes it a comforting and exotic meal for chilly January evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes. Add curry powder, turmeric, and a pinch of salt, stirring to coat the onions in the spices.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

This coconut curry shrimp is rich, flavorful, and aromatic. The creaminess of the coconut milk paired with the spices creates a comforting, fragrant sauce that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Miso-Glazed Black Cod

This elegant and flavorful miso-glazed black cod recipe is perfect for a winter dinner. The combination of sweet and savory miso with the rich, buttery texture of the black cod creates a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 4 black cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup white miso paste
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger until smooth.
2. Place the black cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
4. Place the marinated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

This miso-glazed black cod is full of rich umami flavors, and its tender, flaky texture pairs perfectly with the savory-sweet glaze. The dish is simple to prepare yet feels like a special occasion meal, ideal for cozy dinners during the colder months.

Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

This light yet satisfying shrimp and avocado salad with a fresh cilantro lime dressing is perfect for those seeking a healthy and refreshing seafood dish during January. The creamy avocado, plump shrimp, and zesty dressing make it a wonderful contrast to heavier winter meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cilantro Lime Dressing:

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. To make the dressing, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
4. Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss gently.
5. Drizzle the cilantro lime dressing over the salad and toss again to coat.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This shrimp and avocado salad is light, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors, perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and filling seafood meal. The zesty cilantro lime dressing elevates the natural sweetness of the shrimp and creaminess of the avocado, making it a refreshing choice even in the winter months.

Clam Chowder with Bacon and Corn

A twist on the classic New England clam chowder, this version incorporates crispy bacon and sweet corn, making it a hearty and satisfying dish for January. The creamy base combined with the tender clams and smoky bacon creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups clam stock or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 lb clams, shucked (or canned clams, drained)
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the potatoes and clam stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the corn, clams, and crumbled bacon, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the chowder to a simmer. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the chowder is creamy and thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This clam chowder is the perfect winter comfort food, with the addition of bacon and corn adding extra layers of flavor and texture. It’s creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet, offering a delightful twist on the traditional recipe that is sure to warm you up during the colder months.

Crispy Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

These crispy fish tacos with a zesty mango salsa are a perfect combination of freshness and crunch. The mild fish pairs wonderfully with the tangy salsa, making it a light yet satisfying seafood dish for the start of the year.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 8 small corn tortillas

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow bowl, combine cornmeal, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge the fish fillets in the cornmeal mixture, coating them evenly on both sides.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. While the fish is cooking, prepare the mango salsa by combining mango, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
6. To assemble the tacos, place a few pieces of crispy fish on each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage, a spoonful of mango salsa, and a drizzle of sour cream if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These crispy fish tacos are vibrant and flavorful, with the sweetness of the mango salsa balancing the crunch of the fried fish. The addition of cabbage adds texture, while the sour cream adds a creamy finish. It’s a fun, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a casual meal or taco night.

Seafood Risotto with Parmesan

This creamy seafood risotto is a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy winter evenings. The combination of shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a rich, Parmesan-infused risotto creates a meal that’s indulgent yet refined.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and mussels)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it in the oil and aromatics. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is slightly toasted.
3. Pour in the white wine, stirring until it’s absorbed by the rice.
4. Gradually add the seafood stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and creamy.
5. While the risotto is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium heat. Add the mixed seafood and cook until opaque and tender, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Once the risotto is done, stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Gently fold in the cooked seafood, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

This seafood risotto is a rich and creamy dish that showcases the natural flavors of the seafood. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth to the risotto, making it an elegant and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a special winter dinner.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Lemon Herb Marinade

These grilled shrimp skewers are packed with flavor, thanks to a zesty lemon herb marinade. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, they’re ideal for serving with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
5. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.

These grilled shrimp skewers are light, fresh, and bursting with citrusy flavors from the lemon and herbs. The quick grilling process makes them an easy option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!