Florida is renowned for its vibrant citrus groves, pristine beaches, and bountiful seafood. When it comes to cooking, there’s no better way to celebrate the Sunshine State than with a delicious meal that showcases its fresh flavors. From succulent shrimp to juicy oranges, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Florida, highlighting the best of its citrusy cuisine, seafood delicacies, and sweet treats.
**Florida Citrus Grilled Shrimp Skewers**
Our first recipe is a perfect blend of flavors: succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty mixture of orange juice, lime zest, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. This refreshing dish is sure to be a hit at your next outdoor gathering.
Florida Citrus Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Florida Citrus Grilled Shrimp Skewers: A refreshing twist on traditional grilled shrimp, this recipe combines the sweetness of citrus with the smokiness of the grill for a summer-perfect appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional citrus wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Key Lime Pie with Fresh Whipped Cream
This classic dessert is a staple of Florida cuisine, featuring the bright, citrusy flavor of key limes. A simple graham cracker crust and creamy whipped topping complement the tart filling perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth. Stir in grated zest.
4. Pour filling into crust and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving with fresh whipped cream (whip heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar to taste).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Grouper with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional seafood dishes, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the savory flavor of grilled grouper.
Ingredients:
– 4 grouper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season grouper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill grouper for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
5. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve grilled grouper with mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Florida Orange Glazed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the juiciness of chicken with the brightness of fresh Florida oranges. This glazed chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 3-4 oranges)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, garlic, and mustard.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stone Crab Claws with Mustard Sauce
Experience the sweet and tangy taste of Florida’s iconic stone crab claws paired with a creamy mustard sauce, perfect for a special occasion or casual dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound stone crab claws
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stone crab claws under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Arrange the stone crab claws on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Spoon the mustard sauce over the crab claws, making sure they’re well-coated.
5. Garnish with chopped chives, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes ( preparation only)
Avocado and Grapefruit Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tangy sweetness of grapefruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado and grapefruit segments.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Conch Fritters with Key Lime Aioli
Experience the flavors of the Bahamas with this delicious recipe that combines tender conch meat with crispy fritter batter and a tangy key lime aioli for dipping.
Ingredients:
For the Conch Fritters:
– 1 pound conch meat, cleaned and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Key Lime Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the conch meat and mix until just combined.
3. Stir in buttermilk until the mixture is smooth.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop the conch mixture by tablespoonfuls into the oil, frying until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot with Key Lime Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Florida Strawberry Shortcake
Florida Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Experience the sweet taste of sunshine with this classic shortcake recipe featuring fresh Florida strawberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh Florida strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add milk, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
6. Cut into squares or shapes of your choice.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow shortcakes to cool completely.
9. Split shortcakes in half horizontally.
10. Whip heavy cream with granulated sugar and salt until stiff peaks form.
11. Assemble shortcakes by spreading whipped cream on the bottom half, topping with sliced strawberries, and finishing with the top half.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Blackened Mahi-Mahi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans in this unique taco recipe, featuring blackened mahi-mahi, crispy tortillas, and a tangy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season mahi-mahi fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, Greek yogurt, and lime juice.
6. Assemble tacos by placing blackened mahi-mahi on warmed tortillas, topping with slaw, and adding optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Sweet Onion Salad with Fresh Basil
This colorful salad combines the sweetness of caramelized onions, the tanginess of juicy tomatoes, and the brightness of fresh basil, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
– 3-4 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the onion slices over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions, diced tomatoes, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Stir in chopped fresh basil leaves.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
Grilled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this indulgent and flavorful recipe for Grilled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter. This dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 lobster tails, thawed
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Season the lobster tails with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lobster tails on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto both sides of the lobster tails.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Florida Peach and Blueberry Cobbler
Florida Peach and Blueberry Cobbler Recipe
This sweet and tangy cobbler is a perfect blend of fresh Florida peaches and plump blueberries, topped with a crispy, buttery crust. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups sliced Florida peaches
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Baking powder (for crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches and blueberries. Sprinkle sugar, cornstarch, and salt over the fruit. Toss gently.
3. Pour melted butter into a separate bowl. Add milk, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients; toss until peaches and blueberries are evenly coated.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Roll out dough (see note) for crust; place on top of fruit mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling bubbles up.
Note: To make crust, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter in a bowl. Use pastry blender or fingers to work butter into flour until coarse crumbs form. Gradually add ice-cold water (about 3 tablespoons) until dough comes together.
Cuban Sandwich with Mojo-Marinated Pork
This classic Cuban sandwich gets a boost of flavor from slow-cooked mojo-marinated pork, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy ham. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1/2 cup mojo marinade (see below)
– 4 slices of ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 4 crusty Cuban bread rolls
– Mayonnaise and mustard, for serving (optional)
Mojo Marinade:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mojo marinade ingredients. Add the pork shoulder and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Slow-cook the pork in the marinade until tender, about 6-8 hours.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by layering ham, cheese, and slow-cooked pork on each Cuban bread roll.
5. Grill or toast the sandwiches until crispy.
6. Serve with mayonnaise and mustard, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (marinating) + 15 minutes (assembling and grilling)
Fresh Coconut Shrimp with Pineapple Dip
Elevate your dinner game with this tropical and flavorful dish! Fresh coconut flakes add a delightful crunch to succulent shrimp, while the pineapple dip provides a sweet and tangy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup fresh coconut flakes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pineapple Dip (see below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together coconut flakes, butter, garlic, and lime juice.
3. Add the shrimp and toss until well coated with the coconut mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with Pineapple Dip (see below).
Pineapple Dip:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Spicy Florida Orange BBQ Ribs
Get ready for a taste of sunshine with these Spicy Florida Orange BBQ Ribs, perfect for your next backyard gathering! A unique twist on traditional BBQ ribs, the spicy kick from the orange marmalade and hot sauce will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, hot sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help the rub penetrate better).
4. Apply the spicy BBQ rub to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker, bone-side down. Close the lid and cook for 2 hours.
6. Flip the ribs over and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing fruit salad, bursting with flavors and textures! This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup fresh mango chunks
– 1 cup fresh kiwi slices
– 1/2 cup fresh papaya chunks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, mango, kiwi, and papaya.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lime juice until well combined.
3. Pour the honey-lime dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped mint leaves and salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just a few minutes.
Pan-Seared Snapper with Citrus Beurre Blanc
Experience the bright flavors of citrus and the richness of butter in this elegant pan-seared snapper dish, perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tbsp of butter and sear the snapper for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the snapper from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Once melted, whisk in white wine, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve the snapper with the citrus beurre blanc spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Corn and Crab Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the richness of crab meat, perfect for a warm summer evening or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in corn kernels and crab meat. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the sunshine of Florida with these 18 zesty recipes! From seafood dishes like Grilled Grouper with Mango Salsa and Pan-Seared Snapper with Citrus Beurre Blanc, to sweet treats like Key Lime Pie with Fresh Whipped Cream and Florida Peach and Blueberry Cobbler. Enjoy a variety of flavors with recipes like Florida Citrus Grilled Shrimp Skewers, Avocado and Grapefruit Salad, and Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing. These fresh from Florida recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for a taste of the Sunshine State!
