Happy July, Seafoodies!
Summer’s peak month deserves a celebration that’s as vibrant as the season itself, and what better way to honor both the Fourth of July and those long, leisurely summer days than with seafood meals that literally pop in red, white and blue? We’ve created a show-stopping collection of meal plan recipes that prove patriotic cooking doesn’t have to mean potato salad and hot dogs (though we love those too!).
This isn’t just about creating photo-worthy plates—though these dishes definitely deliver on the visual wow factor. It’s also about making the most of summer’s vibrant produce and seafood, which just happens to pair perfectly with our nation’s colors. Juicy blueberries add a festive touch when sprinkled over a Seared Scallop Salad, while vine-ripened red tomatoes bring brightness to a Sheet Pan Cod & Vegetables dinner. Our creamy white champagne sauce lets the sweet, delicate lobster shine in Gluten-Free Lobster Crepes—an outstanding option for a celebratory brunch. And if you’re feeding a crowd, a Triple Seafood Boil bursts with color (and flavor), making it the ultimate seasonal showstopper for your next summertime gathering.
Our July meal plan features all these recipes and more—drawing on a diverse selection of seafood stars, from clams and sweet crab to omega-3-rich salmon and crowd-pleasing shrimp!
Not sure where to start? Try building a whole experience around a recipe! Pair our comforting Instant Pot Pasta with Red Sauce and Clams with a chilled glass of white wine and blueberries for dessert, then cap off the evening with a sparkler-lit stroll or some lawn games. Hosting a backyard cookout? Encourage guests to bring a side dish that fits into the red-white-and-blue theme as you fire up the grill for Baja-Style Street Fish Tacos with all the toppings, vibrant pico de gallo and crema-lime sauce— adding an eye-catching, colorful twist on a classic taco bar.
As a celebration of America’s birthday, the return of summer’s bounty or simply the joy of great seafood—these red, white and blue recipes are here to make your July meal planning absolutely delicious and festive.
Get ready to add some serious sparkle to your summer table—no fireworks required, just incredibly fresh, fantastic food!
Breakfast
Upside Down Puff Pastry
No need for elaborate preparations or advanced skills—simply roll out the dough, layer on the toppings, fill, flip and bake!
Cheesy Shrimp Breakfast Casserole
Red peppers add a pop to this lightened-up creation which replaces bread and milk with veggies and reduced-fat cheese—resulting in a better-for-you option!
Appetizer
Char-Grilled Honey Parmesan Oysters
Before transferring your oysters onto the hot grill—give them an indulgent update with a dollop of our creamy olive oil mayo, honey and parmesan mixture right on top!
Sheet Pan Crab Nachos
Crabby (in a good way), crunchy and sheet-pan simple—these nachos are ideal for when you’re entertaining al fresco and want a quick appetizer.
Sourdough Crab Melts
To anyone who appreciates the art of a winning sandwich, we’ve got your new favorite obsession—no special equipment or chef-level skills needed!
Lunch
Creamy Clam Chowder
Juicy clams, chunky potatoes, fragrant vegetables and a broth that’s nothing short of heavenly—what’s not to love?!
Seared Scallop Salad with Blueberries
We are always in the mood for the sweet-and-savory combination of seafood and fruit—but add in fresh greens and simple homemade delicious balsamic vinaigrette and this recipe really stands out.
Baja-Style Street Fish Tacos
This dish is all about those fiery contrasts—spicy fish wrapped in a delicate corn tortilla with crunchy slaw and a creamy lime sauce. Adjust the heat as you please!
Dinner
Easy Broiled Lobster
Bright red lobster is beautiful and luscious all on its own—its natural taste is elevated with our minimalist broiling approach.
Triple Seafood Boil
Turn out this summer-ready seafood dish onto a large platter or—our preference—a paper-covered picnic table, al fresco. Nothing fancy, just fabulous eats!
Instant Pot Pasta with Red Sauce and Clams
Twirlable strands of linguine and spaghetti complement this bold tomatoey sauce and clam combo well, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand—even a gluten-free option would work.