Seafood Dishes That Keep Guests Coming Back!
Lent is a prime season for seafood sales, and for restaurant operators and chefs, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh menus with crave-worthy seafood dishes. With many diners opting for meatless meals during this time, offering unique and flavorful seafood options can turn first-time guests into loyal customers. Here are a few standout seafood selections that will set your Lenten menu apart.
Handy’s Crispy Jalapeño Shrimp
Spice up your seafood offerings with Handy’s Crispy Jalapeño Shrimp. These shrimp are coated in a crunchy, flavorful breading with a hint of heat, making them a perfect appetizer or entrée topping. Serve them with a cool cilantro-lime aioli or a zesty mango salsa to balance the spice and keep guests coming back for more.
Handy’s Crispy Pastry Wrapped Shrimp
For a more upscale presentation, Handy’s Crispy Pastry Wrapped Shrimp delivers on both flavor and visual appeal. Wrapped in a delicate, flaky pastry and fried to perfection, these shrimp are ideal as a sharable appetizer or as part of a seafood platter. Pair them with a sweet chili dipping sauce or a tangy ponzu glaze to add depth and dimension to the dish.
Ocean Horizon Cod Filet
A classic Lenten staple, the Ocean Horizon Cod Filet is a versatile option that works across multiple menu applications. Whether beer-battered for a traditional fish and chips offering, baked with a lemon-garlic butter sauce, or pan-seared with fresh herbs, this mild, flaky fish is a crowd-pleaser. Consider offering a build-your-own cod sandwich with a variety of toppings and sauces to cater to different tastes.
Maximizing Lenten Sales
To make the most of Lent, here are a few strategies to increase seafood sales and enhance guest experience:
- Create a Lenten Specials Menu – Highlight seafood dishes with limited-time promotions to attract guests looking for meat-free options.
- Offer Family-Style or Combo Meals – Feature platters with a mix of seafood options to encourage group dining and higher check averages.
- Leverage Social Media & Email Marketing – Promote your Lenten menu through eye-catching food photography, weekly specials, and email reminders to keep your restaurant top of mind.
- Experiment with Flavor & Texture – Combine crunchy, crispy, and fresh elements to keep dishes exciting and memorable.
By offering innovative, high-quality seafood dishes, you can turn Lent into a profitable season while giving your guests new reasons to return. With Handy’s shrimp selections and Ocean Horizon’s premium cod, your Lenten menu is sure to make a lasting impression.
Need help sourcing these premium seafood items? Contact your FoodPRO Foodservice Consultant today and get ready to make this Lenten season a success!
