Easy Seafood Bake for Two

Name: Easy Seafood Bake for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (4-ounce) halibut fillets; 6 scallops; 6 peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp (tails attached); ⅓ cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; ½ teaspoon seafood seasoning (e.g., Old Bay); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 12, 2025

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There is something undeniably special about a meal designed for two. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, celebrating an anniversary, or simply indulging in a gourmet meal at home, a seafood bake for two is the perfect way to elevate the evening. Combining fresh halibut, plump scallops, and succulent shrimp, this dish balances elegance and simplicity with a blend of buttery richness, citrus brightness, and the depth of dry white wine.

If you’ve ever dined at a high-end seafood restaurant and marveled at the delicate flavors of perfectly baked seafood, you’ll be delighted to know that recreating that experience at home is easier than you think. This recipe is not only straightforward but also requires minimal cleanup, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the effort.

Why Seafood Bake for Two is the Perfect Meal

1. A Restaurant-Quality Dish in Under 30 Minutes

Many seafood dishes require intricate preparation or multiple cooking steps, but this seafood bake simplifies the process. Baking seafood together in one dish allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth of taste that would typically take hours to develop. With just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of baking, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a fine dining establishment.

2. Balanced and Elegant Flavors

The key to this dish is its harmony of flavors. The richness of melted butter coats the seafood, enhancing its natural sweetness, while the bright acidity of lemon juice and white wine cuts through the richness, keeping the dish light and refreshing. The addition of garlic and seafood seasoning introduces just the right amount of savory depth, making each bite more indulgent than the last.

3. Perfectly Portioned for Two

Portion control can sometimes be tricky when cooking seafood, especially for small servings. This dish eliminates the guesswork by providing a perfectly sized meal for two, ensuring that you and your dining companion can enjoy a luxurious dish without leftovers going to waste.

4. Minimal Cleanup for Maximum Enjoyment

Unlike pan-frying or grilling seafood, which can create extra dishes and lingering odors in the kitchen, this one-pan bake keeps things simple. With all the ingredients layered in a single baking dish, cleanup is effortless, allowing you to spend more time savoring your meal rather than scrubbing pots and pans.

Ingredients

2 (4-ounce) halibut fillets
6 scallops
6 peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp (tails attached)
⅓ cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon seafood seasoning (e.g., Old Bay)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Preheat the Oven
- Set oven to 450°F (230°C) for a quick and even bake.
Prepare the Seafood
- Arrange halibut fillets, scallops, and shrimp evenly in a glass oven-safe baking dish.
Season and Flavor
- Drizzle the seafood with dry white wine, melted butter, and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle minced garlic and seafood seasoning evenly.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Bake the Seafood
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until halibut flakes easily, shrimp turns pink, and scallops become opaque.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 2)

Calories: 320
Protein: 35g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Sodium: 470mg

The Art of Choosing Quality Seafood

1. The Best Fish for a Seafood Bake

While halibut is the preferred choice for this dish due to its firm texture and mild, buttery taste, other fish options can work just as well. Consider using:

Cod – A slightly flakier white fish with a delicate sweetness.
Salmon – For a richer, more robust flavor.
Sea Bass – A luxurious choice with a smooth, velvety texture.

2. Selecting the Freshest Shrimp

Fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean scent, firm texture, and a slightly translucent appearance. If using frozen shrimp, ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before baking to avoid excess moisture affecting the dish’s texture.

3. Perfecting the Scallops

Scallops should be plump, dry, and creamy white in color. Avoid scallops that appear overly wet or glossy, as they may have been treated with preservatives that affect their natural flavor. Dry-packed scallops are ideal for this dish as they caramelize beautifully and retain their natural sweetness.

How to Enhance Your Seafood Bake

1. Choose the Right White Wine

Wine plays a crucial role in this dish, adding a touch of acidity and depth to the buttery seafood flavors. Some excellent wine choices include:

Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrusy, perfect for enhancing the freshness of the seafood.
Pinot Grigio – Light and dry with a delicate floral aroma.
Chardonnay – A richer choice that complements the butter and garlic.

If you prefer to cook without alcohol, substitute the wine with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water.

2. Elevate the Dish with Herbs and Spices

While parsley adds a bright finishing touch, you can customize your seafood bake with other herbs:

Dill – A classic pairing with seafood, adding a hint of grassy freshness.
Thyme – Earthy and slightly citrusy, it enhances the natural flavors of fish.
Chives – A mild onion flavor that complements garlic beautifully.

For a bolder flavor profile, consider using paprika, cayenne pepper, or even Cajun seasoning to give the dish a slight kick.

3. Add a Crispy Topping for Texture

For those who love a bit of crunch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or panko breadcrumbs over the seafood before baking. This will create a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender seafood underneath.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Seafood Bake

A seafood bake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Some of the best accompaniments include:

1. Light and Fresh Sides

Steamed Asparagus – The mild bitterness of asparagus complements the richness of the butter sauce.
Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the dish.

2. Hearty and Comforting Sides

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and indulgent, they soak up the buttery seafood juices.
Wild Rice or Quinoa – A nutty, textured grain that pairs well with seafood.

3. Crusty Bread for Dipping

A slice of warm French baguette or sourdough is perfect for mopping up every last drop of the white wine and butter sauce.

FAQs About Seafood Bake for Two

1. Can I Use Frozen Seafood?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before baking to prevent excess water from diluting the flavors.

2. What If I Don’t Have Seafood Seasoning?

You can make a simple homemade blend with:

½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

3. Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours before baking and refrigerate it. However, do not add the lemon juice or white wine until right before baking to keep the seafood fresh.

4. How Do I Know When the Seafood Is Fully Cooked?

Halibut should flake easily with a fork.
Shrimp should be firm and pink.
Scallops should be opaque and slightly springy to the touch.

5. What Can I Substitute for Butter?

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute extra virgin olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Conclusion: A Seafood Dish Worth Savoring

A seafood bake for two is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe delivers flavor, elegance, and simplicity all in one.

With minimal preparation, fresh ingredients, and a perfect balance of flavors, this dish proves that fine dining doesn’t have to be complicated. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine, a side of crusty bread, and good company, and you have the perfect evening ahead.

So next time you want to treat yourself and someone special, let this seafood bake be your go-to recipe. It’s a small effort for a big reward, and every bite is worth it.