You're about to put together a menu for a small dinner party when your friend tells you she's a pescatarian. This diet revolves around seafood as the central meat source. That said, you don't need to scrap your original plans. Instead, you can create some delightful fish-based dishes that'll please each guest.
Here are eight recipes you can cook for your favorite pescatarians.
1. Maple Glazed Salmon by Simply Whisked
If you've never cooked fish before, here's a simple recipe for you. Aside from the fact that salmon provides numerous health benefits like fatty acids and lean protein, it's also plain delicious. This fish serves as a tasty base for many spices and glazes, so it's no surprise that maple and soy come together perfectly for this dish. Plus, you'll bake it inside the oven, so you won't need to use any oil.
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a main that pairs well with steamed vegetables and wholesome grains. For a side, try broccoli and cauliflower on brown rice.
2. Parmesan Broiled Tilapia by Spend with Pennies
Tilapia tastes a little sweet and mild, as it's a lean fish. As such, it works beautifully with a salty cheese like parmesan. No one likes flimsy, spongey fish, so this recipe calls for a crunchy crust that's broiled to perfection. With a little dill and lemon on top, there's no better dish for a warm summer evening. If you want to avoid fats, try Greek yogurt as an alternative to the butter and mayonnaise.
You can serve this dish with pesto pasta for a hearty meal.
3. Baked Lobster Tails by Tasty.com
A deliciously buttery lobster tail practically signifies class. If you and your friends want to sit down for a fancier meal, here's a tasty recipe. After you butterfly your lobster tails, you'll douse the meat with a spice mix and bake them in the oven. If you plan to buy frozen lobster, make sure to defrost it inside the refrigerator.
Try your lobster tails with a side of mac 'n cheese or rice pilaf.
4. Honey Garlic Shrimp by Sally's Baking Addiction
Even if you're not a pescatarian, there's so much to love when it comes to shrimp. These yummy little shellfish taste delectable no matter how you decide to prepare them. This recipe calls for a honey and garlic glaze, so it's lovely when paired with Asian-inspired vegetables. Additionally, shrimp don't take long to cook, so you can always use it when you need to make a quick dinner.
Think about sides like stir-fried green beans and red peppers. You can also add these shrimp to some lo-mein noodles.
5. Greek-Style Lemon Cod by The Mediterranean Dish
Here's another mild fish that adapts to any flavor you want to add to it. This recipe uses Mediterranean-inspired spices alongside lemon and garlic to create a gourmet meal. It's pan-fried to create a delectable coat on the outside. Aside from its flexibility, cod offers many vitamins and minerals. It's also an excellent protein source for your pescatarian friends.
You can try this dish with rice or salad on the side. If you want to serve wine, try a dry, crisp pinot grigio.
6. Pan-Seared Butter Scallops by Inspired Taste
You don't need to go to a restaurant to eat scallops. Instead, you can make your own quality version at home. These are perfectly garlicky and buttery with a browned crust on either side. Though this recipe calls for basil and lemon, it's always possible to customize your dishes to your guests' tastes. Additionally, scallops offer much nutritional value no matter how you prepare it.
Serve this appetizing main with a plate of grilled vegetables and creamy risotto.
7. Steamed Clams With Herbs by NYT Cooking
What's better than clams and wine on a warm summer evening? This dish brings back memories from meals at beachside restaurants, so don't be afraid to imagine you're by the ocean as you eat. These clams require simple ingredients, so you won't need much except for whatever you have on hand. Plus, you shouldn't worry about a side for this meal. A little bread or pasta works perfectly.
Try a glass of sauvignon blanc for a flawlessly paired beverage.
8. Blackened Mahi-Mahi by From Valerie's Kitchen
If you want to try a fishier fish, mahi-mahi should be your go-to option. It boasts a stronger flavor than smaller cuts, so it's best when marinated and grilled. It tastes somewhat like halibut. That said, it still provides a neutral base for various flavors. This recipe uses a Cajun spice mix, so feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to an amount that's better suited for you.
You should serve this dish with a starch and a vegetable, like mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus.
Try These Delicious Fish-Based Meals
You can impress pescatarians and meat-eaters alike with these yummy recipes. With so many different flavor combinations, there's a dish for everyone's palette.
