When you're cooking seafood, the key to creating a mouthwatering dish lies in the art of seasoning. To take your catch from ordinary to extraordinary, you must have the right set of spices and herbs by your side, as they give your dish a flavorful punch and make every bite a delight.
If you're curious to know which spices and herbs work best with seafood, this article is for you. So, let's dive right in!
1.Smoked Paprika
Smoked paprika adds depth and complexity to the flavors of seafood, infusing a barbecue-like goodness to your dish. Be it grilled, roasted, or pan-seared fish, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can create a big difference in taste and flavors.
2. Lemon Pepper
The zesty combination of lemon and black pepper is a classic pair—it never fails to bring out the natural flavors of seafood. The tangy notes of lemon goes well with the mild heat of black pepper, and together, they add a refreshing twist to any dish. You could be preparing fish, shrimp, or scallops, lemon pepper is a go-to seasoning that will leave your taste buds dancing.
3. Chive
Chives are delicate and aromatic herbs that add a gentle onion-like flavor to seafood. They work particularly well when you pair them with white fish like cod or halibut. Sprinkle some freshly chopped chives over your grilled or baked fish for a subtle yet delightful taste enhancement.
4. Dill
If you're a fan of the delicate flavors of Scandinavia, dill is the herb for you. Its fresh, grassy notes and mild anise-like taste complement a wide range of seafood dishes. Dill is especially popular in dishes like smoked salmon, fish soups, and creamy seafood pasta. Add a generous amount of chopped dill to infuse your dish with its distinctive flavors.
5. Basil
This versatile herb is not just meant for Italian cuisine, it also works wonders with seafood. The sweet and slightly peppery flavor of basil pairs beautifully with various types of fish and shellfish. Whether
you're making a tomato-based seafood stew or a light and refreshing ceviche, a touch of basil will bring a burst of freshness to your dish.
6. Marjoram
Marjoram is an herb from the mint family and it's known for its delicate and slightly citrusy flavor. It complements seafood, especially milder fish, with its subtle taste. Try sprinkling some dried marjoram on grilled fish fillets or you could also add it to your seafood marinades.
7. Dukkah
If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore exotic flavors in your cooking, give dukkah a try. It's an Egyptian spice blend made from a combination of nuts, seeds, and spices like cumin and coriander. Its nutty and aromatic profile adds a unique crunch and depth of flavor to grilled or baked fish. Simply coat your fish with dukkah before cooking and let the magic unfold!
8. Cilantro
Cilantro brings a fresh and vibrant flavor to your seafood dishes. Its citrusy and slightly peppery notes make it a perfect match for fish tacos, ceviche, or grilled shrimp. Garnish your seafood creations with some chopped cilantro and savor the added burst of freshness!
9. Tarragon
Tarragon has a unique flavor profile that works perfectly with seafood dishes. Its subtle anise-like taste pairs well with delicate fish, lobster, and scallops. Use it as a garnish or add it to creamy tarragon sauce, and you'll surely get some compliments on your culinary prowess.
Now you know how to take your seafood dishes to the next level — it's time to get started and unleash your culinarya creativity! Remember, cooking is a fun experience and there is no hard and fast rule, so being a little experimental doesn't hurt.