Your Seasonal Seafood Guide: How to Get Fresh Picks All Year!

The simple trick to enjoying fresh seafood all year round is by selecting whichever one is in season. This not only ensures the freshest and most flavorful dishes but also encourages sustainable fishing practices. Here is an exploration of the best seafood to enjoy throughout the year, the benefits of choosing seasonal seafood, and tips for buying and cooking it.

A Seasonal Seafood Guide

Here's a seasonal breakdown of all the fishes you should be looking for, either in grocery store aisles or at the fish market, based on the season we're in!

Spring

• Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon begins its run in the spring.
• Halibut: Available from March to November, with the freshest catches in the spring.
• Clams: A variety of clams, including littlenecks and steamers, are at their best.
• Soft-Shell Crab: These crabs molt their hard shells in the spring, making them a seasonal delicacy.

Summer

• Lobster: Lobster season peaks in the summer, offering the best flavors.
• Mahi-Mahi: This tropical fish is abundant and fresh in the summer.
• Bluefish: Available and at its peak freshness during the summer months.
• Scallops: Particularly sweet and tender when harvested in the summer.

Fall

• Oysters: Cooler waters in the fall make for the best-tasting oysters.
• Swordfish: Fall is prime time for swordfish, with firm and flavorful fillets.
• Dungeness Crab: Starts its season in late fall, offering sweet and succulent meat.
• Mussels: Peak season begins in the fall, with plump and juicy mussels.

Winter

• Squid: Fresh and abundant during the colder months.
• King Crab: Best harvested in the winter, offering sweet and rich meat.
• Cod: Winter months yield the freshest catches of this versatile fish.
• Shrimp: Many varieties of shrimp are at their best in the winter.

Benefits of Eating Seasonal Seafood

Choosing seafood that is in season helps support sustainable fishing practices. It allows fish populations to replenish and reduces the environmental impact of overfishing. Seafood that is in season is typically fresher and more flavorful. It hasn’t been frozen or transported long distances, preserving its natural taste and texture. Seasonal seafood is often more affordable because it is abundant and locally sourced, reducing transportation and storage costs.

Tips for Buying and Cooking Seasonal Seafood

Familiarize yourself with the seafood that is in season in your region. Local fish markets and seafood guides can be valuable resources. When buying seafood, check for clear eyes, firm flesh, and a fresh, mild smell. Avoid seafood with a strong, fishy odor.

Don't hesitate to ask your fishmonger about the origin and seasonality of the seafood. They can provide insights into the best choices and cooking methods. Fresh, seasonal seafood shines with simple preparations. Grilling, steaming, and baking are great ways to highlight the natural flavors without overwhelming them. Explore recipes that feature seasonal seafood. Many cultures have traditional dishes that align with the seasonal availability of fish and shellfish.