Cooking With Shellfish: 5 Quick and Easy Recipes

Shellfish are a delicious treat enjoyed by many people around the world. Most of us have heard the old proverb “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” but when it comes to shellfish, it should be an apple a week for your health. With just about 40 different types of freshwater and saltwater shellfish available in the NZ., there is plenty of variety to explore but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Because you can never go wrong with something that tastes great and is good for you as well. 

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about cooking with shellfish including tips, tricks, and recipes so you can start incorporating them into your diet today!

What Are Shellfish?

Shellfish are bivalves — animals that live in or on the ocean in water at least 3 feet deep. They are a very important part of the marine ecosystem as they feed on microscopic plankton and are also prey for other creatures like crabs and fish. When it comes to shellfish in New Zealand, most people think of mollusks like oysters, scallops, and clams. Bivalves like the mussel and oyster are closely related and can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments. There are many other kinds of shellfish including urchins, scallops, shrimp, fish, and even insects! Shrimp is a great choice as they are low in fat and high in protein making them an excellent protein-rich addition to any meal.

Quick and Easy Shelfish in New Zealand

This Easy Shrimp Scampi recipe is one you will want to add to your dinner rotation! The shrimp is sauteed in garlic and butter with tomato and parsley for an unforgettable flavor combination. This Steamed Mussel recipe is a great way to explore Shelfish New Zealand and they are super quick and easy to make. They are steamed with white wine, garlic, and olive oil for a flavorful and healthy dish. This is a great recipe for anyone who loves a good fish taco. This is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or for tailgating. The fish is quickly cooked in a sweet and sour sauce with red onions, green peppers, and fresh parsley. This recipe for Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is an easy, one-pot meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. The shrimp is sauteed in garlic and butter with tomatoes, parsley, and basil for an unforgettable flavor combination. This recipe for Fried Shrimp is quick and easy to make and is a great way for you to get in extra protein. The shrimp is battered and then fried with seasonings and spices so it is a healthy and delicious meal. This recipe for Wild Salmon Fillets is perfect for a romantic dinner or for a family dinner where everyone can enjoy salmon together. The salmon is baked in a citrus juice and dill sauce to bring out the flavor.

Tips for Green Mussels Recipes in New Zealand

There are so many different kinds of green mussels you can try cooking with but here we’ll highlight a few of the most popular and popularly used varieties.

Shrimp

Shrimp is low in fat, high in protein, and can be prepared in almost any way. They make a great appetizer when served with cocktail sauce, Greenshell Mussels are also added to an omelet, or even grilled.

Clams

Clams are a very easy to find and inexpensive type of shellfish. They can be served hot, cold, or even fermented. Clams are a great source of iron, zinc, and protein. 

Mussels

Mussels are a great seafood choice because they are low in fat, high in iron, and protein. They can be served hot or cold and in almost any way. 

Oysters

Oysters are very popular seafood choices and come in many different varieties. They can be eaten raw or even cooked. They are a great source of calcium, iron, and protein. Crab: Crab is a great seafood choice because it is low in fat and high in protein. It can be served hot, cold, or even made into a crab boil where it is boiled in beer. Shrimp, Clams, and Green Mussels in New Zealand are inexpensive types of shellfish. Crab is a more expensive but delicious option.