Salmon-Wellington-as-Pescatarian-Christmas-Dinner-ideas

15 SCRUMPTIOUS PESCATARIAN CHRISTMAS DINNER IDEAS

In this post we will show you 15 scrumptious pescatarian  Christmas dinner ideas to try.

The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and, of course, delicious food.

For those who follow a pescatarian diet, which includes fish and seafood but excludes meat, Christmas dinner can still be festive and flavorful.

In this blog post, we will explore 15 delightful pescatarian Christmas dinner ideas. Each dish brings a unique taste and festive flair to your table, ensuring a memorable holiday feast for you and your loved ones.

But before then lets have a look at some details of this beautiful diet.

 

WHAT IS PESCATARIAN (DIET)?

Simply put, a pescatarian is someone who doesn’t eat red meat or poultry, but does eat fish and other seafood.

A pescatarian diet is a plant based diet, it typically includes vegetables, grains and pulses, alongside fish and other seafood, but excludes meat and sometimes dairy.

 

HEALTH BENEFIT OF PESCATARIAN DIETS

 

1. Healthy heart

This is one of the benefits of pescaterian diet. Omega-3 fats EPA and DHA are essential fatty acids which improve the health of the heart and the best sources of these fats is seafood.

Research shows that consuming fish regularly  may help reduce the risk of heart attackshigh blood pressure, atherosclerosis, stroke and sudden cardiac death.

Apart from fish, the pescatarian diet mainly consists  of plant foods. According to one 2017 analysis people who consume a diet high in vegetables and other plant foods have a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

2. Good gut health

If you include high fibre foods in your pescatarian diet plan, your gut is in for a treat. the fibre helps prevent constipation and feeds  your gut’s microbiome which plays a major role in your immune system.

3. Lower the risk of Cancer

Limiting red meat or cutting it out of our diet completely may also lower your chances of getting cancer.

 

Now lets dive into this Pescatarian Christmas Dinner ideas.

 

15 SCRUMPTIOUS PESCATARIAN CHRISTMAS DINNER IDEAS

1. Herb-Crusted Salmon

Herb-Crusted-Salmon-as-Pescatarian-Christmas-Dinner-ideas

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Salmon is a classic choice for a festive dinner. Its rich flavor and beautiful color make it perfect for a Christmas centerpiece.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a bowl, mix parsley, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Prepare the Salmon: Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lemon juice over them.
  4. Apply the Herb Crust: Press the herb mixture onto each fillet, covering them evenly.
  5. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
  6. Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and serve with a side of steamed vegetables.

 

2. Creamy Shrimp Pasta

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This creamy shrimp pasta is a comforting dish that feels luxurious, making it a wonderful addition to your Christmas menu.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Shrimp: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add shrimp, cooking until pink (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, simmering for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and shrimp until well-coated.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

 

3. Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

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These stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic appetizer or side dish. They are hearty, flavorful, and can easily impress your guests.

Ingredients

  • 4 large portobello mushrooms
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean mushrooms and remove stems. Brush the caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine quinoa, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the Mushrooms: Fill each mushroom cap with the quinoa mixture.
  5. Bake: Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until golden and warm.
  6. Serve: Serve warm as an appetizer or side.

 

4. Baked Cod with Lemon and Capers

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This simple yet elegant baked cod is bursting with flavor, making it a perfect main dish for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 cod fillets
  • 2 lemons (one sliced, one juiced)
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Place cod fillets in a greased baking dish.
  3. Season the Fish: Drizzle olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper over the fillets. Scatter capers and lemon slices on top.
  4. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh dill and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

 

5. Seafood Paella

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This colorful seafood paella is a show-stopper. It’s filled with shrimp, mussels, and vibrant vegetables, making it a festive dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb mussels, cleaned
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until soft.
  2. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the Arborio rice and smoked paprika, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add Liquids: Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  4. Add Seafood: Place shrimp and mussels on top of the rice. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until the seafood is cooked and rice is tender.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

 

6. Grilled Octopus Salad

Grilled-Octopus-Salad-as-Pescatarian-Christmas-Dinner-ideas

 

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This vibrant salad features tender grilled octopus with fresh vegetables, perfect for those looking for a lighter Christmas option.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb octopus, cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Octopus: Boil octopus in salted water for about 45 minutes until tender. Drain and cool.
  2. Grill the Octopus: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cut octopus into pieces and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. Make the Salad: In a bowl, combine cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and lemon juice. Toss well.
  4. Combine and Serve: Add grilled octopus to the salad. Toss gently and garnish with fresh parsley.

 

7. Lobster Risotto

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Lobster risotto is a luxurious dish that can elevate your Christmas dinner. It’s creamy, rich, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
  • 4 cups seafood broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the Broth: In a saucepan, warm the seafood broth over low heat.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
  3. Toast the Rice: Stir in Arborio rice, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent.
  4. Add Wine: Pour in white wine, stirring until absorbed.
  5. Cook the Risotto: Gradually add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed. Repeat until rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
  6. Finish the Dish: Stir in lobster meat and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh chives and serve warm.

 

8. Clam Chowder

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Warm and hearty, clam chowder is perfect for a chilly Christmas evening. This creamy soup will comfort and delight your guests.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups clam juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Bacon: In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion: In the same pot, add onion and cook until translucent.
  3. Add Potatoes and Clam Juice: Stir in diced potatoes and clam juice. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
  4. Add Clams and Cream: Stir in clams (with juice) and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve: Top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley before serving.

 

9. Grilled Vegetable and Fish Skewers

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These colorful skewers are fun to make and eat. They combine fresh vegetables with fish, making for a delightful Christmas appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb firm white fish (like swordfish), cut into cubes
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add fish cubes and marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare Skewers: Thread fish and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces.
  3. Grill Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fish is cooked through.
  4. Serve: Serve warm with a drizzle of lemon juice.

 

10. Miso-Glazed Black Cod

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Black cod, also known as sablefish, has a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with a sweet and savory miso glaze.

Ingredients

  • 4 black cod fillets
  • 1/4 cup white miso paste
  • 1/4 cup mirin
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix miso paste, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce until smooth.
  2. Marinate the Fish: Coat black cod fillets with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Bake the Fish: Place marinated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve with steamed rice.

 

11. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Canapés

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These canapés are a great starter for your Christmas dinner. They’re simple to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz smoked salmon
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • Fresh dill for garnish
  • Crackers or bread

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese: In a bowl, mix cream cheese and capers until well combined.
  2. Assemble the Canapés: Spread cream cheese mixture on crackers or slices of bread. Top with smoked salmon and a cucumber slice.
  3. Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh dill on top.
  4. Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

 

12. Tuna Poke Bowl

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A poke bowl is a fresh and healthy option that’s customizable to your liking. This dish is both vibrant and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb sushi-grade tuna, diced
  • 2 cups cooked sushi rice
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Seaweed for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tuna: In a bowl, combine diced tuna, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
  2. Assemble the Bowls: Divide sushi rice among serving bowls. Top with marinated tuna, avocado, and cucumber.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with seaweed and sesame seeds before serving.
  4. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the best freshness.

 

13. Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

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These stuffed peppers are colorful and filled with delicious seafood. They’re a great main course that looks beautiful on the table. Among the Pescatarian Christmas dinner ideas, this is a great choice.

Ingredients

  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  3. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine shrimp, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, half of the cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the seafood mixture, pressing down lightly. Place in a baking dish.
  5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.

 

14. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon and Parmesan

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Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic side dish. Their crispy edges and tangy flavor make them a perfect complement to seafood dishes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare Brussels Sprouts: In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roast: Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
  4. Add Parmesan: Remove from the oven and toss with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Serve: Serve warm as a side dish.

 

15. Chocolate Fondue with Fruit

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For dessert, a chocolate fondue is a fun and interactive way to end your Christmas dinner. Pair it with fresh fruit for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh strawberries, banana slices, and marshmallows for dipping

Instructions

  1. Make the Chocolate Fondue: In a saucepan over low heat, combine dark chocolate and heavy cream. Stir until melted and smooth.
  2. Prepare the Dippers: Arrange fresh fruit and marshmallows on a platter.
  3. Serve: Pour the chocolate mixture into a fondue pot or bowl and serve with dippers.

 

 

This post has shown you 15 pescatarian Christmas dinner ideas you can enjoy this Christmas.

This Christmas, treat your family and friends to a delightful pescatarian dinner that showcases the flavors of the sea. Each of these 15 dishes offers a unique taste experience, perfect for celebrating the season.

If you choose a succulent salmon or a comforting bowl of clam chowder, these Pescatarian Christmas dinner ideas will make your holiday gathering memorable and delicious. Enjoy your festive feast.

 

 

Similar post:

41 PLANT-BASED DIETS TO KICK START YOUR JOURNEY TO HEALTH

17 FLAVORFUL VEGAN CHRISTMAS DINNER IDEAS

 

 

 

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