Summer is almost in full swing, which means more time spent outside enjoying the sunshine with your loved ones. The beach is a summertime hotspot and what better way to enjoy your beach day with a well-prepared picnic? Adding fresh seafood into the mix can elevate your experience even further!
Here’s how to plan the perfect summertime seafood picnic for a day by the sea.
Planning Your Seafood Picnic
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the perfect spot for your picnic is key. Look for a location that offers shade, whether natural or from a beach umbrella. Choose a spot close to the water but not so near that the tide will catch you.
Pro Tip: Restrooms and picnic tables can enhance your comfort, so be looking for those!
Preparing a Checklist of Essentials
A well-thought-out checklist can make your picnic seamless. Here are the basics you’ll need:
- Cooler with ice packs
- Utensils, plates, and napkins
- Trash bags
- Beach gear
Seafood Dishes Perfect for a Beach Picnic
Cold Lobster Rolls
Lobster rolls are a quintessential beach picnic food. To prepare them, mix lobster meat with mayonnaise, a dash of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Serve on toasted buns lined with lettuce. Keep the lobster rolls cool in your cooler until you’re ready to enjoy them. They are easy to handle and absolutely delicious!
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines shrimp’s rich flavor with avocado’s creaminess. Toss cooked, chilled shrimp with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light lemon vinaigrette. Pack the salad in a sealable container and keep it cool. It’s a light and refreshing dish perfect for a hot day.
Mussels in White Wine Sauce
While mussels are usually enjoyed warm, they can also be a delightful cold dish—steam mussels with white wine, garlic, and shallots. Once cooked, chill them and pack them with a portion of the cooking liquid. The mussels will absorb the flavors as they chill, providing a sophisticated picnic option.
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Crab cakes are another fantastic seafood option for a beach picnic. Make small, handheld crab cakes using lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasoning. Pair them with a homemade remoulade sauce and keep them chilled until serving; they’re delicious when cold and easy to eat without utensils.
Seafood Pasta Salad
Combine your favorite seafood—such as shrimp, scallops, and crab—with cooked pasta, fresh vegetables, and a light vinaigrette. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your tastes. The pasta salad can be prepared in advance and served cold, making it the perfect picnic choice.
Refreshing Drinks to Pair with Your Seafood Picnic
Lemonade and Iced Tea
Classic lemonade and iced tea are perfect beach beverages. For an extra touch, add fresh mint leaves or berries. Keep these drinks in insulated bottles to stay cool throughout the day.
Sparkling Water with Fresh Fruit
Bring sparkling water infused with slices of lemon, lime, or berries for a lighter option. It’s a refreshing and hydrating drink that pairs well with seafood.
Wine Pairings
White and rosé wines are excellent choices to complement your seafood dishes. Opt for crisp, chilled wines that enhance the flavors of your meal. Remember to pack a bottle opener and wine glasses!
Practical Tips for a Successful Beach Picnic
Keeping Seafood Fresh
Maintaining the freshness of your seafood is important for the integrity of your meal. Use a high-quality cooler and pack it with plenty of ice packs. Layer the ice packs between dishes to ensure everything stays cool.
Food Safety Tips
Practice good food safety by keeping raw and cooked seafood separate. Use airtight containers to prevent cross-contamination and keep everything clean.
Cleanup and Sustainability
Embrace the leave-no-trace principles by packing out all trash and recyclables. Use biodegradable or reusable utensils and plates to minimize waste.
A seafood picnic at the beach combines the best of summer: delicious food, beautiful scenery, and the joy of outdoor dining. With some planning and the right recipes, you can create a memorable experience for yourself and your loved ones!
For the freshest seafood delivered straight to your door, Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. offers high-quality options perfect for your next summer picnic.
Order today by calling 1-800-967-4268 and elevate your beach day with the finest seafood Maine has to offer!
