Need fresh ideas for fish recipes during Lent? These 31 pescatarian dishes range from crispy fried to oven-baked and everything in between—perfect for Fish Friday or anytime you want a tasty seafood dinner.
The practice of avoiding meat during Lent goes back many centuries. Traditionally, Catholics refrain from eating the meat of warm-blooded animals—beef, pork, and poultry—on Ash Wednesday and on Fridays throughout Lent, culminating on Good Friday. Because fish are cold-blooded, fish dishes became a popular and meaningful alternative, giving rise to the longstanding “Fish Friday” tradition.
Beyond tradition, adding more fish to your meal plan is a great way to introduce lean protein and a variety of nutrients to your diet. While fried fish has its place, there are countless ways to prepare seafood—grilled, baked, pan-seared, stewed, or poached—that bring out new flavors and textures. Below are curated recipe ideas across several popular fish and shellfish categories to inspire your Lent menus or weekly meal rotation.
Catfish
Southern fried catfish delivers a crunchy, satisfying bite with minimal ingredients. Serve it piping hot with hushpuppies, coleslaw, or fries for a classic meal.
- Blackened Catfish with Creole Sauce
- Cornbread and Shrimp Stuffed Catfish Fillets
- Sautéed Catfish Fillet with Creole Mustard Sauce
- Skillet Grilled Catfish
- Southern Fried Catfish
Cod or White Fish
White fish such as cod are versatile, mild-flavored, and ideal for baking, pan-frying, or cooking in one-pan meals. They take marinades and sauces well and pair nicely with vegetables, citrus, and herbs. Here are a few reliable recipes to try when you want a light but satisfying fish entrée.
- Crispy Lemon Baked Fish with Parmesan Fries from I Heart Naptime
- Italian Cod with Tomatoes from She Loves Biscotti
- Lemon Baked Cod with Parmesan and Vegetables from The Suburban Soap Box
- One-Pan Cod with Chorizo and Chickpeas from Supergolden Bakes
Salmon
Baked teriyaki salmon is a quick, healthy option that balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. A simple marinade of soy, garlic, and chili gives salmon fillets a rich glaze and keeps the fish moist.
- Baked Teriyaki Salmon
- Chipotle Honey Glazed Salmon from Swirls of Flavor
- Maple Glazed Salmon from Grandbaby Cakes
- Pan-Seared Salmon with Bacon-Molasses Vinaigrette
- Slow Roasted Balsamic-Glazed Salmon from Smack of Flavor
Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and are incredibly adaptable—perfect for fast weeknight meals. Shrimp scampi is a classic: bright lemon, garlic, and butter tossed with pasta makes a satisfying dish in minutes.
- 10-Minute Easy Shrimp Scampi
- Cajun Shrimp & Vegetable Foil Packets from Nourish Nutrition Blog
- Confetti Shrimp with Bell Peppers and Basil from What a Girl Eats
- Greek Shrimp Skillet from Running to the Kitchen
- Seafood Shrimp Gumbo
- Shrimp Bisque with Spicy Croutons
- Shrimp and Crawfish Étouffée
- Shrimp and Grits
- Spicy Grilled Shrimp on Polenta
Mahi Mahi
Mahi mahi is meaty and holds up well to bold flavors and quick cooking methods. Try it roasted with citrus, grilled with a spicy mayo, or formed into flavorful fish burgers topped with slaw.
- Mahi Mahi Burgers with Chipotle Mayo & Cabbage Slaw from Eating the Gains
- Oven Baked Mahi Mahi from Wanderlust and Wellness
- Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa from The Rising Spoon
Want even more ideas? Explore the full collection of fish and seafood recipes on the blog for additional mains, sides, and creative preparations that suit Lent, family dinners, or any night you want a flavorful pescatarian meal.