Winter is often associated with rich, comforting dishes, but fresh fish and seafood can also shine in hearty winter meals. Here’s how to elevate your winter menu with seafood that’s both warming and flavourful, while providing practical solutions for chefs across different foodservice sectors. 

1. Seafood Chowder: A Cosy Comfort Dish  

Few dishes comfort like a creamy seafood chowder, ideal for cold weather. This dish brings together cod, haddock, shrimp, and clams, blending rich, briny flavours with hearty potatoes and savoury aromatics. 

Why It’s So Satisfying 

Seafood chowder’s creaminess pairs beautifully with the delicate taste of fresh seafood. A mix of fish and shellfish ensures a balanced flavour and texture that’s perfect for a chilly evening. 

Tips for the Perfect Chowder 

Start with sautéed onions, celery, and carrots, enhanced with garlic and thyme. A broth of fish stock, white wine, and cream creates a rich profile. For an elevated finish, add a splash of vermouth and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or even a rye sourdough for an irresistible meal. 

Sustainability 

Choose locally sourced, sustainable seafood. Certifications like MSC ensure responsible fishing practices that align with eco-friendly menus. Chef’s Tip: Offering a smoked fish option, like haddock, can add depth and variety to your chowder base. 

For more on sustainability, see here. 

2. Baked Salmon with Winter Vegetables: A Nutritious Winter Meal 

Baked salmon paired with winter vegetables is both nourishing and robust. The richness of salmon is enhanced by the deep, sweet flavours of roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and beets. 

Why It’s the Perfect Winter Dish 

Salmon’s natural oils provide richness and omega-3s, while roasted seasonal vegetables bring out earthy, comforting flavours. This dish is wholesome while remaining elegant enough for varied menu settings. 

Enhancing the Flavours 

Marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dill. Roast the vegetables with rosemary and a dash of balsamic vinegar to balance their sweetness. Baking everything together allows flavours to meld beautifully. 

Final Touches 

Top with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch, and drizzle with a balsamic reduction for acidity. These additions elevate both taste and texture, making this dish versatile across service formats. 

Sustainable Choices 

Opt for Loch Duart salmon, or substitute with Chalkstream® trout for an equally environmentally friendly option. Both are sustainably managed, aligning with eco-conscious dining trends. 

3. Luxurious Fish Pie with Sweet Potato Crust: A Winter Comfort Classic 

Fish pie is a winter favorite, and this version features a mix of white fish, smoked haddock, and salmon topped with a sweet potato crust. It’s indulgent and hearty, ideal for cold-weather menus. 

What Makes This Fish Pie Special? 

The premium fish blend provides rich flavours and varied textures. The creamy sauce, made with fresh herbs and a touch of mustard, complements the sweet potato crust, adding both sweetness and visual appeal. 

A Perfect Cold-Weather Dish 

The sweet potato topping balances the savoury fish, while the creamy filling offers warmth and comfort. Pair with butter-braised leeks or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a lighter contrast. 

Sustainable Choices 

Choose responsibly sourced fish from sustainable fisheries. Local or MSC-certified options ensure your dish is eco-friendly while maintaining quality. Chef’s Tip: Consider adding a smoked trout component for a twist on traditional fish pie flavours. 

4. Baked Farmed Halibut Persillade with Lettuce and Pea Fricassee: A Winter Menu Showstopper 

Baked farmed halibut persillade offers both elegance and heartiness, featuring a fragrant herb crust and a light lettuce and pea fricassee. The combination is refined yet warming, making it suitable for both fine dining and upscale casual menus. 

What Makes Halibut an Ideal Winter Choice? 

Halibut’s firm texture and subtle sweetness are versatile, allowing it to pair well with a vibrant herb crust. Baking it with a persillade of parsley, garlic, and breadcrumbs keeps the fish moist and flavourful. 

A Balanced and Comforting Dish 

The lettuce and pea fricassee adds a light, fresh element while maintaining warmth. Pairing with new potatoes rounds out the dish, offering a hearty base. 

Sophisticated Winter Warmer 

This dish combines tender halibut with vibrant persillade and creamy fricassee for a balanced, elegant plate that’s perfect for winter menus. 

Sustainable Choices 

Opt for sustainably farmed halibut. If unavailable, MSC-certified alternatives ensure an eco-friendly approach. Chef’s Tip: Offer a beurre blanc sauce for guests seeking a richer experience. 

5. Skrei Cod Loin with Roasted Cumin-Spiced Cauliflower: A Chilly Evening Delight 

Skrei cod loin paired with roasted cumin-spiced cauliflower offers elegance and heartiness, making it ideal for winter. Skrei cod’s seasonal freshness is enhanced by the warm, earthy notes of roasted cauliflower. 

Why It’s a Winter Favorite 

Skrei cod’s firm texture and sweet flavour are perfect for winter. The cumin-spiced cauliflower adds an aromatic, slightly nutty taste that balances the cod’s delicate sweetness. 

A Complete, Satisfying Meal 

Serve with couscous or quinoa to add depth and nutrition. The roasted cauliflower contrasts beautifully with the tender cod, creating a sophisticated yet comforting dish. 

Sustainable Choices 

If Skrei is out of season, use MSC-certified cod. This ensures your dish remains both delicious and eco-friendly. Chef’s Tip: Add a drizzle of harissa-infused oil for a warming finish. 

Conclusion 

Winter offers a chance to showcase hearty, warming dishes that are sophisticated and comforting. Fresh fish and seafood provide a luxurious twist on traditional winter fare, elevating your menu with elegant flavours and sustainable practices. Incorporate these dishes to offer memorable meals that align with current culinary trends. For additional recipe inspiration, explore our library here. 

Our team are on hand to support you and discuss your requirements in order to provide the best fresh ingredients for your dishes.         

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