Citrus and Herb Seafood Seasoning Recipe

This healthy homemade seafood seasoning recipe is the go-to blend you’ll reach for every time you cook fish. It’s zesty, herby, and savory with just a hint of citrus to make every bite pop. Perfect for salmon, shrimp, white fish, and more—it’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor.

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It's a must-make.

This homemade seafood seasoning is an easy win for weeknight dinners, weekend grilling, and everything in between:

• Seriously flavorful – the perfect balance of savory herbs, citrus, and just a touch of heat.
• Clean ingredients – no weird fillers or preservatives—just real pantry spices.
• Quick and versatile – mix it in minutes and use it on fish, shrimp, scallops, and even veggies.

Let’s talk texture and flavor.

This homemade seafood seasoning hits all the notes: zesty lemon, herby dill and parsley, with a whisper of sweetness from fennel seed and smoky paprika to round it out. The texture is light and finely blended, so it melts right into fish or shellfish with a drizzle of olive oil—perfect for pan-searing or grilling. There's just the right amount of black pepper for a subtle kick and a warm depth from garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika.

What you'll need.

Here's what you're going to need to make this seafood seasoning recipe:

• Garlic powder: a savory base note giving depth and richness.
• Onion powder: soft and sweet, rounds out the flavor and complements the garlic.
• Paprika: adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
• Salt: use sea salt or kosher for best results.
• Ground black pepper: adds mild heat and earthy sharpness for balance.
• Dried dill: adds a classic, bright, slightly tangy flavor, great for fish!
• Dried parsley: mild and herbaceous, it adds freshness as well.
• Lemon zest: adds a bright, zippy citrus flavor.
• Optional: crushed fennel see —adds a hint of sweetness with light licorice flavor.

Customize it your way.

This seafood seasoning spice blend is super versatile, and making it from scratch means you can adjust the flavors exactly the way you like them—zesty, herby, mild, or bold.

• Add dried tarragon for a French twist.
• Use orange zest instead of lemon for a citrusy pop.
• Substitute smoked paprika for paprika to add a little bold, smoky depth.
• Add Old Bay (just a pinch) if you're craving that nostalgic flavor.
• Add celery seed to mimic store-bought seasoning blends without additives.

Flexible dietary swaps.

Here's how to make this homemade seafood seasoning fit your dietary goals:

• Low-sodium — Cut back the salt and make it your own.
• Citrus allergy — Swap lemon zest with dried thyme or tarragon
• Avoiding nightshades — Skip paprika and red pepper flakes.

How to make this seafood seasoning homemade recipe.

Let’s get this spice blend going—it only takes 5 minutes (or less)!

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Mix

Add all ingredients to a bowl or glass jar and combine.

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Season

Sprinkle on your favorite seafood that has been lightly coated in olive oil and cook.

How to use it.

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This seafood seasoning recipe goes with just about everything from casual lunches to special occasion dinners.

• Tossed with shrimp and olive oil before grilling.
• Rubbed on white fish or salmon before baking.
• Mixed into breadcrumbs for crispy fish fillets.
• Sprinkled on homemade seafood chowder.
• Added to softened butter for a quick fish topping.
• Folded into mayo for a quick sandwich spread.

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