Dine In for Fresh Seafood

Crab cakes rank high as an all-time favorite appetizer or main dish meal. They cook quick–only 6 minutes per batch–and are a cinch to prepare. Get one step ahead by making the tartar sauce in advance.

Recipe: Louisiana Crab Cakes with Creole Tartar Sauce

Dress up cooked fish fillets by flaking, tossing with lemon juice, and piling on a crusty French bread roll. This simple sandwich transforms into an all-star meal with homemade Basil Mayonnaise, a side of kettle-fried potato chips, pickle spears, and cold beer.

Recipe: Fish Sandwiches

A warm basket of hushpuppies is an excellent complement to a fresh seafood dinner. It's easy to fry your own using a Dutch oven or a deep cast-iron skillet–just make sure you have a thermometer on hand to keep the oil at 375º. Serve them plain or stir diced jalapeños into the batter for an added kick.

Recipe: Hushpuppies

This tropical fried shrimp dish uses coconut milk and flaked coconut for a double shot of flavor. Serve the shrimp and mustard sauce as an appetizer, or pair with rice, summer veggies, and pineapple for a main meal.

Recipe: Coconut Shrimp with Maui Mustard Sauce

The filet mignon of seafood, lobster tails are pricey but well worth the extra cost when you want a special meal. Try Ginger Dipping Sauce for a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional drawn butter. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, roasted lobster tails are a quick and elegant dinner choice.

Recipe: Roasted Lobster Tails with Ginger Dipping Sauce

The distinctive flavors of Florida and the Caribbean combine in this unforgettable dish. The recipe calls for grouper, but feel free to use mahi-mahi or cod. Cashews and coconut make for a sweet and crunchy crust.

Recipe: "Floribbean" Grouper with Red Pepper-Papaya Jam

Cool and creamy, key lime pie is a classic beach dessert. This updated version combines white chocolate with lime for an intense flavor combination. Serve slices on festive plates and garnish with a slice of lime.

Recipe: White Chocolate-Key Lime Pie