Summery Seafood
I'm writing this from my air-conditioned New York City apartment. Teddy and I just returned from a walk along the Hudson River, and she's now cozily napping on the couch. I've been trying to get some work done, but my mind keeps drifting to more distant places. What I'd really love to be doing is to be sitting in the Florida Keys, listening to Bob Marley, enjoying mahi mahi tacos with fresh mango salsa, and sipping a piña colada that's just starting to melt into the perfect sipping consistency...
...And then I'm jolted back to reality by the honking and cursing of an annoyed NYC driver. Ah, the joys of city life!
When I think about seafood, I realize I particularly crave it during the warmer summer months. Images of steaming clambakes, cold Coronas, lobster rolls in the sun, and fresh seafood salads on a dock make me want to dive into a platter of peel-and-eat shrimp, ceviche, and the like. While I may not be at the beach, I'm grateful for the excellent seafood shops here in New York. Here, I have access to some of the most fresh, delicious seafood you can get in the country. Sounds like it’s time to go in search for some mahi mahi…
No matter where you are, the recipes below are some of my favorite seafood dishes. They're perfect for the season, but honestly, they're great any time of year. I hope you enjoy trying them out! And if cooking isn't on the agenda, at least treat yourself to a piña colada in the summer sun!
This is a relatively new method for me, and I love it because there's no need to rush to cook it perfectly. Slow roasting keeps the salmon moist and flavorful throughout. I like to serve it with a bright herb sauce, but it's incredibly versatile. It would be fantastic as a protein in a sandwich or as a twist on a classic Niçoise salad, replacing tuna.
A favorite in our house! I love making this dish when the weather cools down a bit, but it's so delicious that it's perfect any time of the year. If it's too hot, you could simply make the shrimp and substitute a salad for the grits—but honestly, why would you?
After spending many summers in New England, one thing that always screams "summer" to me is steamers by the coast. This recipe is my way of taking steamers to the next level. You can prepare this dish on the grill for a family barbecue or on the stove for a cozy dinner for two!
Anyone who knows me knows I'm completely obsessed with potatoes. I'll enjoy them in any form, at any time, and this recipe might just be an excuse to indulge in more potatoes. Arctic Char is a fantastic alternative to salmon, and when paired with the earthy flavors of rosemary and garlic potatoes, you simply can't go wrong!
For an elegant and easy dinner party, mussels are always a winning choice. I love serving them with big pieces of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. The best part about this recipe is its versatility—you can easily swap in any herbs or flavorings you have on hand. Pair it with a crisp glass of Sancerre, and you're guaranteed a knockout meal!
When I see linguine with clams on a menu, I'm always tempted to order it, but having been burned by past experiences, I almost always opt out. However, my recipe is both delicious and easy to make! The clams are cooked perfectly, ensuring they're never chewy, and the addition of olives adds a subtle hint of brininess. A splash of lemon brings brightness, while butter and cheese add a touch of decadence. This dish is a surefire hit for any summer dinner party.