15+ Seafood Appetizers That Are Perfect for Summer

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Revive this party staple by setting out a bountiful platter of shrimp with three bowls of zingy new sauces. For an appetizer, plan on 1 pound of large shrimp for every 4 to 5 guests. Perk up precooked shrimp in boiling water for 30 seconds. Then plunge them in ice water. Drain shrimp well, pat dry, and serve.

Sesame Salmon Croquettes Recipe

Fragrant fresh ginger gives these easy two-bite nibbles a bright punch of flavor. Can't find fresh ginger? Substitute with 1/2 tsp. ground ginger.

Thai Shrimp Cakes Recipe

Dried coconut, fresh ginger, fish sauce, and a couple of dashes of Sriracha lend a depth of Thai flavor to these crab cakes.

Crab Dip Recipe

This flavorful crab dip features a from-scratch Bechamel sauce, jumbo lump crab, and a blend of fresh herbs and cheeses. Enjoy with fresh baguette slices or your favorite crackers.

Bourbon-Glazed Shrimp Recipe

This grilled shrimp appetizer recipe won "Best Seafood Dish" in a local barbecue contest. To get the best flavor, use a high-quality bourbon.

Shrimp in Cucumber Cups Recipe

Poached shrimp star in this stand-out appetizer of Shrimp in Cucumber Cups.

Deviled Shrimp (Camarones a la Diabla) Recipe

Grilled shrimp covered in zesty salsa makes a tasty main dish or impressive appetizer.

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops Recipe

Wrap meaty scallops in crispy bacon and pair with a luscious dip for an appetizer that's guaranteed to be gone in minutes.

Escabèche-Style Scallops Recipe

Escabèche is a Spanish dish in which cooked seafood is marinated and served cold as an appetizer. Though it's traditionally made with sardines, escabèche is also good with other seafood, including scallops and shrimp. Marinate for only 30 minutes to ensure the scallops remain tender. Top with thyme sprigs.

Salmon Ceviche Recipe

This spicy ceviche truly shines when the wild salmon that's used is as fresh and locally sourced as possible.

Mini Crab Cakes with Herbed Aioli Recipe

Garnish these miniature crab cakes with chives for a savory appetizer. Serve with lemon wedges.

Smoked Salmon Mousse Canapés Recipe

Spread the love for your favorite seafood at your next party with crowd-pleasing Smoked Salmon Mousse Canapés.

Crostini with Avocado, Crab, and Flake Salt Recipe

Top baked bread slices with mashed avocado and crab to make this tasty appetizer.  

Tuna Poke Recipe

This classic Hawaiian appetizer of cubed raw ahi tuna is easy to throw together at the last minute.

Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs RecipeAdd a flair of sophistication to the average deviled egg platter by using smoked salmon to top each egg slice. Use any combination of herbs you like for this easy and tasty, smoked salmon starter.

Crab Salad Cups Recipe

This fresh, light crab salad is easy to prepare and the perfect appetizer for warm summer evenings. Dress it up with avocado and parsley, then serve the salad in lettuce cups to make it finger-friendly.

Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

For this lightened version of a favorite salmon dip, we cut the calories and saturated fat in half with light cream cheese and sour cream.

Fried Buffalo Oysters Recipe

A unique twist on the tangy buffalo wing, fried oysters are crispy on the outside and meltingly rich and creamy on the inside. These fiery bites are a bit spicy, so it’s best to have a side of cool ranch or blue cheese and trimmed celery sticks nearby.