Seafood has long been known as a healthier alternative to red meats such as pork and beef. In fact, The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults eat at least 8 ounces of seafood per week, based on a 2,000 calorie diet. This makes sense, given all the health benefits of eating the sea’s bounty. For one, most fish are packed with heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids that improves vision and also lowers cholesterol. Meanwhile, shrimp is rich in protein and iodine while being low in calories.

The best part? There are countless ways to dress up seafood, ensuring your meals are anything but boring. With that said, here are a few of our recommended seafood dishes you can try to start your year strong.

Ahi tuna steak

Ahi tuna, also known as yellowfin tuna, is notable for its beautiful pink color, mild flavor, and creamy texture. To fully savor the juiciness and supple texture of the fish, it’s commonly served either raw or lightly seared. Because of this, restaurants use only the highest-grade cuts of ahi tuna to serve to their customers.

Depending on where you eat, ahi tuna can come either marinated, coated with a spice rub, or served with a sauce like wasabi lime on the side. However you enjoy it, though, its tenderness and subtle flavor will keep you coming back for more.

Teriyaki shrimp and rice

When one mentions the word “teriyaki,” the image that comes to mind is usually that of a chicken, pork, or beef dish. And while those are all delicious options for sure, teriyaki shrimp is not to be ignored.

With this dish, the shrimp is marinated in a spicy, sweet, tangy blend of teriyaki and other spices — cayenne and ginger, for example — and then pan-fried. However, there are also oven-baked versions or even one-pot style varieties that are made in a rice cooker to cut the oil and slash the calories.

Served on a bed of warm rice and a side of vegetables, this makes for a versatile, hearty and filling meal — proof that teriyaki goes well with just about anything.

Spice-crusted baked rockfish

The Alaskan rockfish goes by many names like rock cod, striped bass, or Pacific red snapper. But however you want to call it, one thing’s for sure: its mildly sweet and nutty flavor and clean finish makes it a great addition to any meal.

This dish, in particular, bursts with flavor, owing to the many spices loaded in the crust — including cayenne, thyme, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder, to name a few. Additionally, each bite holds a contrast of textures, with the crisp exterior of the crust, and the soft, juicy meat of the baked rockfish. A side of tangy avocado yogurt sauce rounds out this meal perfectly.

Ginger fish stir-fry

Though not a common choice for this method of cooking, fish can definitely still be used for stir-frying. Using a wok for this allows the fish to be cooked much more quickly than in a pan. Because it spends less time in heat, the meat can stay firm and intact.

This dish leans more towards classic Chinese flavors, relying on aromatics like ginger and garlic to infuse the oil and seep into the fish. It’s perfect for those looking for a filling comfort meal.

There are plenty more delicious dishes out there awaiting the seafood connoisseur. Be sure to check out your local restaurants and indulge in the harvest of the sea!

Written by Joelle Martin for thefishmarket.com