Looking to Reel Them In? 5 Seafood Dishes with Kid Appeal

Ree Drummond's Shrimp Stir Fry as seen on Food Network

Ree Drummond's Shrimp Stir Fry as seen on Food Network

Photo by: Stephen Johnson ©2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Stephen Johnson, 2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration issued its final fish consumption advice for children, suggesting two to three servings of low-mercury fish a week. But it can take some enticing to get the younger set excited about digging into seafood. Here are five recipes that are sure to lure — and might even entice a few seafood-phobic grown-ups too.

Shrimp: Shrimp Stir Fry

10-Minute Shrimp Stir-Fry
Loading Video...

Kids love this high-protein crustacean — and stir-frying shrimp with a colorful mix of vegetables offers a quick way to turn them into an eye-catching dinner. If you’re confused about whether to choose wild or farm-raised shrimp, check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch guide for shrimp.

FN_Parmesan-Fish-Sticks

Photo by: Marshall Troy ©2012, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved.

Marshall Troy, 2012, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved.

Salmon is very low in mercury, a toxin found in some large fish and associated with negative neurological effects, and yet it’s also commendable source of Omega-3 fats, making salmon a particularly important fish for developing brains.

140106_FNM_FishSticks_005.tif

Photo by: Justin Walker

Justin Walker

Filled with protein, cod also gets points for its trademark mild flavor and texture that are amenable to folks young and old. Cod is tender, mild and super-satisfying — great for fish tacos or baked in a crisp coating.

Ellie Krieger's Tuna Casserole as seen on Food Network

Ellie Krieger's Tuna Casserole as seen on Food Network

Photo by: Stephen Johnson ©2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Stephen Johnson, 2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Chunk Light Tuna: Tuna Casserole

Canned tuna is accessible, affordable and user-friendly. The chunk light variety is lower in mercury, averaging 35 percent less than albacore tuna.

Week Night meal on a white plate

Tilapia with Beans Tomatoes Oregano_002.tif

Week Night meal on a white plate

Tilapia is mild, quick-cooking and a great bargain. Choose American farmed-raised varieties for the best quality.

Related Links:

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition.

Next Up

5-Star Fish and Seafood Dishes

You won't miss meat at all.

5 Best Casserole Dishes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These dishes can make more than, well, casseroles. Find out why we love them.

5 Pumpkin-Centric Dishes to Make This Fall

Check out Food Network's top-five pumpkin recipes to find inspired ideas for using this fall ingredient in lunch, dinner and dessert dishes.

5 Unique Balsamic Vinegars for Zhuzhing Holiday Dishes

Grateable balsamic, our favorite balsamic glaze, vegan balsamic caviar and more.

5 Cute, Kid-Friendly Pumpkin Decorating Ideas

These no-carve pumpkin ideas are great for all ages.

5 Best Pie Dishes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

No matter what your favorite pie is to make, we've found the right pie plate for you.

5-Star Dishes You Have to Grill Before Summer Ends

And there's no reason to wait for the weekend.

5 Lunches That Kids and Parents Can Agree On

The secret to success? Customization.