Northwest Aioli Seafood Platter

Name: Northwest Aioli Seafood Platter
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 large shrimp, deveined and peeled; 8 oz scallops; 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb oysters, shucked; 2 lemons, sliced; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fusion Style Recipes

I can't tell you how much joy making the Northwest Aioli Seafood Platter brings me. It’s the perfect combination of fresh seafood and vibrant flavors that never fails to impress guests. I love how the creamy aioli enhances each bite, creating a taste sensation that feels both indulgent and fresh. This platter is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites everyone to gather around and enjoy the ocean's bounty. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish definitely fits the bill.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:50:28.948Z

In my quest to create the perfect seafood platter, I stumbled upon this delightful combination that highlights the freshest catches from our region. The zesty Northwest aioli truly elevates the seafood and gives each bite a punch of flavor that makes your taste buds sing. Personally, I think the key is using high-quality ingredients; the difference is palpable.

During one of our family gatherings, I served this platter and watched as everyone dove in with excitement. We experimented with the aioli, adding a hint of smoked paprika, and it was a massive hit! That little twist transformed it into a standout dish worth repeating.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy aioli that complements fresh seafood perfectly
A delightful variety of flavors and textures in every bite
Easy to customize with your favorite seafood selections

The Perfect Aioli

The aioli in this Seafood Platter isn't just an afterthought; it's the heart of the dish, offering a creamy contrast to the firm textures of the seafood. Using quality mayonnaise as a base gives your aioli a rich consistency, while fresh minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that enhances the seafood. Make sure to let the aioli chill for at least 20 minutes; this resting time allows the garlic and lemon juice to infuse the mayonnaise, resulting in a smoother, more integrated flavor.

For a twist on the traditional aioli, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of hot sauce. These variations not only introduce new dimensions of flavor but can also elevate the overall presentation. If you prefer a lighter alternative, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, healthier dip that still delivers on creaminess.

As you prepare the aioli, it's crucial to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Each ingredient plays a vital role; the acidity from the lemon juice should balance the richness of the mayonnaise, while salt enhances the overall flavor. I recommend using fresh lemon juice rather than bottled, as it brightens the aioli and makes a significant difference in taste.

Cooking Seafood Like a Pro

When it comes to seafood, timing is key to achieving the perfect texture. For the shrimp, a quick boil for 2-3 minutes is all you need; they should turn bright pink and curl slightly. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye. The scallops require a bit more attention; cook them for 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden crust. Use a hot skillet for searing to lock in their flavor and maintain a tender bite.

Steaming mussels is a straightforward process that requires only a few minutes. Place them in a pot with a splash of water and cover them until they open, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Discard any that remain closed after cooking, as they may not be safe to eat. This method helps retain the mussels’ natural brininess and tenderness, which pairs beautifully with the aioli.

For the oysters, serving them raw on ice allows their natural flavors to shine through. Make sure they are fresh and properly shucked to avoid any contamination. Display them on a bed of crushed ice with lemon wedges for an artisanal touch. If you’re unsure about shucking oysters, you might consider visiting a fishmonger for pre-shucked options, ensuring freshness and safety.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your seafood platter:

Seafood

12 large shrimp, deveined and peeled
8 oz scallops
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb oysters, shucked
2 lemons, sliced

Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all seafood is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your seafood platter:

Prepare the Aioli

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth, then cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Seafood

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until pink, the scallops for 4-5 minutes until golden, and steam the mussels until they open. Serve the oysters raw on ice.

Assemble the Platter

On a large serving tray, arrange the cooked shrimp, scallops, mussels, and shucked oysters. Garnish with lemon slices and serve the aioli in a small bowl on the side.

Enjoy your delicious seafood platter with a glass of chilled white wine!

Pro Tips

Use a variety of seafood for a more colorful and flavorful presentation. Experiment with different herbs and spices in the aioli to suit your taste!

Serving Suggestions

Serving a seafood platter like this one invites a communal dining experience, making it ideal for gatherings. Arrange everything on a large, shallow platter or board, allowing guests to help themselves. Accompany the aioli with additional dipping options, such as cocktail sauce or a vinaigrette, to offer a range of flavors. Don’t forget some crusty bread or crackers on the side, which can be used to scoop up the seafood and aioli for an extra satisfying bite.

For a heartier meal, pair the seafood platter with a fresh salad, perhaps a simple arugula or mixed greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This not only adds a refreshing contrast but also enhances the coastal theme of your meal. If you're feeling indulgent, consider serving a chilled white wine or Champagne to complement the seafood and elevate the dining experience.

Make-Ahead Tips

This seafood platter can be partially prepared in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. The aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully while saving you precious time on the day of serving. In terms of seafood, while you're best off cooking it fresh, you can clean and shuck mussels and oysters a few hours earlier if needed.

If you want to take it a step further, consider marinating the shrimp in lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt for a few hours beforehand. This not only adds flavor but also begins the cooking process, resulting in tastier shrimp. Just be careful not to let them sit too long, as the acid can begin to 'cook' the shrimp and alter their texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, but make sure it's completely thawed and pat dry before cooking.

→ How can I make the aioli vegan?

Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan counterpart and use plant-based ingredients.

→ What can I replace oysters with?

You can use clams or simply increase the amount of shrimp or scallops.

→ Can I prepare the aioli in advance?

Absolutely! The aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.