11 Irresistible Coastal Cookbooks for East Coast Seafood Lovers
Bring the flavors of the coast to your kitchen with these seafood cookbooks.
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They say not to judge a book by its cover, but what about judging a cookbook by its cover? Because I’m definitely judging these, and am finding them all irresistible!
Recently, I’ve been leaning more toward using cookbooks instead of online recipes, whether I’m using a physical cookbook or one that’s downloaded to my tablet. I just love flipping through a cookbook with beautiful food photography! It truly is an art. Cooking a delicious seafood meal is also an art, and these cookbooks have so many seafood recipes that I can’t wait to try. Some of these cookbooks also go beyond seafood, offering a diverse range of recipes that capture the essence of coastal living, from dishes with farm fresh produce, to indulgent desserts, and refreshing cocktails. Plus, their stories of coastal communities and tradition are unmatched.
I’ve enjoyed exploring and cooking from many of these coastal and seafood cookbooks, and the ones I don’t own a physical copy of yet are already on my wish list. This coastal cookbook was an immediate add-to-cart given the cold weather we’re currently experiencing in New England. I’m looking forward to adding more coastal cookbooks to my personal collection as summer approaches so I can really take advantage of one of my favorite summer activities: eating a seafood dinner out on my patio.
If you love the flavors of the sea, fresh, healthy food and beautiful photography, check out these coastal cookbooks, including many from some of my favorite coastal locations. The covers are just beautiful, and would make for great coastal decor if you have open shelving in your kitchen. These seafood and coastal cookbooks would also be a great gift for someone who loves to cook. If you have any other favorite East Coast-inspired seafood cookbooks, let me know in the comments.
Ready to bring the flavors of the coast into your kitchen? Here are a few seafood cookbooks I think you’re going to love.
11 Irresistible Coastal Cookbooks for Anyone Who Loves East Coast-Inspired Seafood
These coastal cookbooks are filled with creative seafood recipes from New England to the coastal South to inspire your next meal.
The Saltwater Table: Recipes from the Coastal South
by Whitney Otawka (Author), Emily Dorio (Photographer)
The Saltwater Table is more than a cookbook, it’s a celebration of the coastal south and its rich culinary traditions. With recipes inspired by the beauty and bounty of Cumberland Island, this book combines seasonal cooking, fresh ingredients, and approachable techniques. Stunning photography, engaging storytelling, and a mix of aspirational and accessible dishes make it perfect for anyone who loves Southern cuisine, coastal travel, or simply great food.
Coastal Kitchen: Nourishing Seafood Recipes for Everyday Cooking
by Jenny Shea Rawn, MS, MPH, RD
Coastal Kitchen is a treasure for seafood enthusiasts, offering over 120 approachable recipes alongside practical tips for selecting, handling, and cooking seafood. With clear instructions and beautiful photographs, each dish is inspiring and accessible. This cookbook doesn’t just teach cooking, it transports readers to the New England coast, celebrating its culinary bounty with tradition and creativity.
Salt & Shore: Recipes from the Coastal South
by Sammy Monsour, Kassady Wiggins
This seafood cookbook celebrates Southern coastal cuisine with lovely photography, engaging stories, and inventive recipes. With its mix of creative seafood dishes and fun cocktails, it brings the charm of Southern hospitality to life while emphasizing sustainability and local traditions. It’s perfect for anyone looking to explore the flavors and culture of the South in their own kitchen.
Related: These Surfing Coffee Table Books Will Look Perfect on Your Coastal Bookshelf
New England Soups from the Sea: Recipes for Chowders, Bisques, Boils, Stews, and Classic Seafood Medleys
by Craig Fear
New England Soups from the Sea is a tribute to coastal New England’s seafood traditions, blending delicious recipes with insightful education on sustainable fisheries and native species. Craig Fear’s approachable style, paired with amazing food photography, makes every soup both inspiring and achievable, from classic clam chowder to inventive soup creations. More than a cookbook, it offers a deeper connection to the region’s rich culinary heritage, perfect for seafood lovers and curious cooks.
The Outer Banks Cookbook: Recipes & Traditions From North Carolina’s Barrier Islands
by Elizabeth Wiegand
The Outer Banks Cookbook blends local history, regional culture, and flavorful recipes that showcase the coastal cuisine of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Featuring over 100 recipes alongside striking photography, this coastal cookbook captures the area’s charm while offering a taste of its vibrant culinary traditions. With contributions from local families and beloved restaurants, it’s a perfect addition for seafood lovers and anyone seeking a connection to this beautiful coastal region.
The Coastal Table: Recipes Inspired by the Farmlands and Seaside of Southern New England
by Karen Covey (Author), Cassandra Birocco (Photographer)
Having grown up in coastal New England, this cookbook feels like a love letter to the region’s unique culinary heritage. Karen Covey beautifully blends heartfelt stories about local chefs, farms, and fishing with approachable recipes that celebrate the fresh, seasonal ingredients of the South Coast of Massachusetts. With captivating photographs and dishes ranging from clam bakes to beach plum mojitos, this book is perfect for anyone looking to bring the flavors of New England into their kitchen.
Eventide: Recipes for Clambakes, Oysters, Lobster Rolls, and More from a Modern Maine Seafood Shack
by Arlin Smith, Andrew Taylor, Mike Wiley, Sam Hiersteiner
I’ve had the pleasure of eating at Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland, Maine, and this cookbook captures their magic perfectly. Blending New England seafood traditions with Asian-inspired flavors, it offers recipes that range from steamed buns and ramen crackers to inventive takes on lobster rolls and clambakes. While some ingredients may require a trip to a specialty market, the detailed instructions and gorgeous photography make this coastal cookbook an excellent guide for recreating Eventide’s unique fusion cuisine at home.
Related: Enjoy a Quick Escape With These Short Beach Books and Audiobooks
The Beach House Cookbook: Easy Breezy Recipes with a Southern Accent
by Mary Kay Andrews (Author), Mary Britton Senseney (Photographer)
The Beach House Cookbook is a guide to creating themed meals, with sections like Low Country Boil, Christmas Brunch, and Beach Picnic. Each recipe is straightforward, uses accessible ingredients, and captures the charm of coastal living. Filled with beautiful photography and warm storytelling, it’s perfect for anyone planning casual gatherings, spending a week at a beach house, or wanting to bring a taste of the coast into their home.
Catch: A Maine Seafood Cookbook from the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association
by Monique Coombs, Rebecca Spear
Catch is a collaborative celebration of Maine’s fishing heritage, featuring recipes contributed by everyone from coastal community members to renowned chefs. Designed to make seafood cooking simple and approachable, the cookbook emphasizes fresh ingredients and dishes you can easily prepare at home. Beyond the recipes, proceeds from the sale of this cookbook support two impactful programs through the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association: Fishermen Feeding Mainers, which supplies seafood to schools and food banks, and the Fishermen Wellness Program, focused on mental health and wellness for commercial fishermen. With exceptional photography and meaningful contributions, this cookbook is as much about community as it is about cuisine.
Shrimp Country: Recipes and Tales from the Southern Coasts
by Anna Marlis Burgard
Shrimp Country is both a tribute to the rich traditions of southern shrimping communities and a practical guide for seafood lovers. Blending over 100 recipes with engaging stories from shrimp captains, local chefs, and coastal families, this seafood cookbook offers everything from classic dishes like shrimp creole to global favorites like tom kha gai. The impressive photographs and lively anecdotes transport you to coastal towns and shrimp docks, capturing the Southern seaside culture.
The New England Clam Shack Cookbook: Favorite Recipes from Clam Shacks, Lobster Pounds & Chowder Houses (2nd Edition)
by Brooke Dojny
I spent summers exploring all over New England, and loved reading The New England Clam Shack Cookbook and am familiar with many of the places mentioned. This book blends travel stories with seafood recipes from well-loved clam shacks, as well as hidden gems across the region. From lobster rolls to chowders, the recipes are straightforward and capture the essence of New England coastal cuisine. It’s a nostalgic nod to familiar spots and an exciting way to discover new favorites.
These cookbooks really shine with their mix of delicious recipes, gorgeous photos, and charming stories. They’re perfect for any home cook, whether you’re just starting to explore seafood or you’ve been cooking it for years and want some fresh ideas. They make it fun and easy to bring coastal magic into your kitchen!
Diving into these cookbooks has changed the way I think about seafood. I used to stick to the same recipes, but now I’m experimenting with new ways to enjoy familiar ingredients. The stories and tips in these books make it all feel so much less intimidating and way more fun, and I can’t wait to try even more of their great recipes.
Pick a cookbook that matches your East Coast seafood vibe, whether you’re drawn to classic New England dishes or flavors of the coastal South. There’s something here for everyone. These coastal cookbooks also make amazing gifts for the seafood lover in your life, or the perfect inspiration for your next dinner party.
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Irresistible coastal cookbooks for anyone who loves cooking seafood recipes.
Which of these coastal cookbooks are you adding to your list? Do you enjoy making seafood recipes? Share your thoughts in the comments.
