From Navarre Beach, Florida on the Emerald Coast to your table, these recipes are sure to make your holiday get together a truly coastal celebration!
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The holiday season at Navarre Beach is a time of unparalleled beauty and tranquility, where the gentle lapping of the waves and the soft, sandy beach creates a backdrop for unforgettable winter memories full of love and laughter. At Blue Moon Vacation Rentals, we understand that not everyone can join us on the coast this festive season. That's why we've crafted a special holiday feast, brimming with the flavors of the ocean and including options for everyone, to bring the coast to your table no matter where you are. From seafood lovers to vegans, we have recipes that bring in our local flavors to delight every palate, ensuring no one misses out on the joy of our favorite coastal holiday flavors.
Our festive menu features a variety of dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. Alongside our seafood appetizer and main course recipes, we've included vegan options that are just as rich in the coastal flavors of our slice of paradise, inspired by our Louisianan neighbors to the West. And for dessert, our Vegan Key Lime Pie with a Cranberry Swirl is sure to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth with festive holiday colors, vegan or not.
Whether you're soaking in the serene beauty of Navarre Beach this holiday season at one of our Vacation Rentals or dreaming of our sun-kissed shores from afar, these recipes are crafted to bring a taste of our coastal paradise to you. Indulge in the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Emerald Coast, and let these dishes remind you of the relaxing beach days that await on your next visit. Gather your loved ones, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that bridges the distance, bringing the essence of a coastal holiday to your dining table anywhere in the world.
Each recipe listed below will serve about 4 people, except for the beverages which are measured out for 1. Every recipe can be increased or decreased dependent on the size of your holiday gathering. We have also included recommendations for eco friendly, biodegradable serving dishes to make clean up a breeze, in coastal wooden finishes made out of palm leaves, sugar cane fiber, and bamboo to keep the coastal charm going! To view the recipes, click on the gray arrow next to each one to expand the ingredient lists and instructions.
1. Winter Coastal Spritz (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Versions)
The Winter Coastal Spritz is a delightful blend of seasonal and coastal flavors, making it an ideal pre-dinner cocktail for the winter holidays. The non-alcoholic version ensures that everyone, including kids, can enjoy this special, festive drink. ❄️
Ingredients:
For the Alcoholic Version:
- 2 oz prosecco or sparkling wine
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- 1/2 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau) – optional
- Sparkling water - This brand is packed with electrolytes and is totally Ocean Minded! Their cans are 100% recyclable, made with an average of 73% recycled materials, AND their company is the only bottled water company that is 100% carbon neutral in their packaging AND operations!
- Ice
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Orange twist or slice for garnish
For the Non-Alcoholic Version:
- 2 oz sparkling apple cider or non-alcoholic sparkling wine
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- Sparkling water - See why we recommend this company above!
- Ice
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Orange twist or slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Glass: Fill a wine glass or a highball glass with ice. Try these compostable, disposable cups for a convenient eco friendly option.
- Mix the Drink:
- Top with Sparkling Water: Top up the glass with sparkling water to add a refreshing fizz.
- Garnish: Garnish with a festive bamboo swizzle stick, a few fresh cranberries, a sprig of rosemary, and an orange twist or slice.
- Serve: Stir gently before serving. This cocktail is perfect for sipping as a festive, colorful start to your holiday dinner.
2. Lemon-Garlic Scallops
These Lemon-Garlic Scallops are a celebration of simplicity and elegance. Each scallop is seared to golden perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the crisp exterior and the tender, buttery interior. The dish is elevated with a zesty sauce of fresh lemon and aromatic garlic, which enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. This dish is a delicate yet flavorful treat, perfect for those seeking a light yet luxurious seafood experience during cocktail hour.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large scallops
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Preparation: Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cooking: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add scallops, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until a golden crust forms. Remove scallops and set aside.
- Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute. Add lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- Serving: Return scallops to the skillet, spooning the lemon-garlic butter over them. Place on festive bamboo appetizer skewers or these biodegradable hor d'oeuvre spoons made from sugarcane fibers. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
3. Coastal-Inspired Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms
These Coastal-Inspired Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms bring flavors reminiscent of the sea to your appetizer spread, thanks to ingredients like seaweed, capers, and optional heart of palm or artichoke hearts to mimic a crab-like texture. These mushrooms are perfect for evoking the essence of the coast in a vegan-friendly way.
Ingredients:
- 12 whole cremini or button mushrooms, stems removed and finely chopped (reserve the caps)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (ensure they're vegan)
- 1/4 cup chopped seaweed (like nori or dulse), for a sea flavor
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon capers, chopped (for a briny flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped heart of palm or artichoke hearts (to mimic a crab-like texture)
Instructions:
- Prep the Mushrooms: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushroom caps and set aside. Finely chop the stems.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Fill each mushroom cap with the stuffing mixture.
- Bake: Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender.
- Serve: Serve warm in these biodegradable hor d'oeuvre spoons with lemon wedges.
4. Mussels in White Wine Sauce
These Mussels in White Wine Sauce are a true testament to the simple elegance of coastal cuisine. Steamed to tender perfection, these mussels are bathed in a fragrant white wine sauce, enriched with garlic, shallots, and a touch of cream. The sauce, light yet flavorful, complements the natural sweetness of the mussels, creating a harmonious balance of tastes. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate, briny flavors of fresh seafood, served with a sophisticated twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
- Sauté: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and shallots, cooking until fragrant.
- Deglaze: Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
- Cook Mussels: Add the mussels, cover the pot, and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the mussels open up.
- Finish: Stir in heavy cream and chopped parsley. Discard any mussels that did not open.
- Serving: Serve hot on these disposable, biodegradable palm leaf appetizer plates with crusty bread for dipping.
5. Vegan Coastal Jambalaya
This Vegan Coastal Jambalaya is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a plant-based twist to traditional Southern cuisine. It's perfect for those looking to enjoy the rich flavors of Gulf Coast cooking in a vegan-friendly way.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sliced okra (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegan sausage, sliced (optional)
- Chopped parsley and green onions for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Rice: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), rice, vegetable broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add Okra and Beans: Stir in the okra and red kidney beans. If using vegan sausage, add it at this stage as well. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes, then fluff the jambalaya with a fork. Garnish with chopped parsley and green onions. Serve with lemon wedges in these biodegradable palm leaf bowls for an eco friendly easy cleanup.
6. Seafood Gumbo
This Seafood Gumbo is a soul-warming dish that embodies the essence of coastal culinary tradition. This hearty stew is brimming with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, crab meat, and oysters, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Infused with classic Cajun spices and thickened with a traditional roux, each spoonful offers a symphony of deep, savory flavors, complemented by the freshness of the ocean. Served over a bed of rice, this gumbo is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the spirit of the coast to your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb crab meat
- 1/2 lb oysters, shucked
- 1/2 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon file powder*
Instructions:
- Base: In a large pot, sauté Andouille sausage until browned. Remove sausage and set aside. In the same pot, cook bell peppers, onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
- Simmer: Add chicken stock, Cajun seasoning, and cooked sausage. Bring to a simmer. Add okra and cook until it's tender.
- Seafood: Add shrimp, crab meat, and oysters to the pot. Cook until the shrimp is pink and the oysters are just cooked through.
- Final Touch: Stir in file powder just before serving.
- Serve: In these biodegradable palm leaf bowls for an eco friendly easy cleanup.
*The use of file powder in gumbo is deeply rooted in Louisiana's culinary history, reflecting a blend of various cultural influences, including Native American and African. When using file powder in recipes like gumbo, it's typically added at the end of cooking. When added to hot liquid, file powder thickens the mixture and imparts its distinctive flavor.
If you're making gumbo and don't have file powder, okra or roux can also be used as thickening agents, although they will give a different flavor and texture to the dish. File powder might be found in the spice aisle of well-stocked grocery stores, in specialty food shops, or online.
7. Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Pomegranate and Pecans
This Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Pomegranate and Pecans side dish not only adds a burst of color to your holiday spread but also provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The Brussels sprouts offer a savory and hearty base, the pomegranate seeds add a juicy, sweet-tart contrast, and the pecans bring a nice crunch. It's a wonderful vegan addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar for added sweetness
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and the edges are crispy and golden brown.
- Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans until they are fragrant and slightly browned, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the roasted Brussels sprouts with the toasted pecans and pomegranate seeds. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and, if desired, a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar. Toss gently to coat.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, like these extra large biodegradable palm leaf bowls and serve warm as a festive side to your main courses.
8. Vegan Cajun-Style Red Beans and Rice
This Vegan Cajun-Style Red Beans and Rice dish is hearty, flavorful, and captures the essence of Gulf Coast cuisine in a plant-based form. It's perfect for a comforting meal at Navarre Beach or anywhere you wish to bring a bit of coastal warmth to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook Beans: Add the soaked and drained red beans, bay leaf, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the tomato paste. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Finish the Dish: Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. Use the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot for a creamier texture. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve the red beans over cooked brown rice in these biodegradable palm leaf bowls for an eco friendly easy cleanup. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
9. Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers offer a tantalizing blend of heat and smokiness, perfect for adding a zesty kick to your festive gatherings. These skewers feature succulent shrimp marinated in a blend of spices, including paprika and a hint of cayenne, then grilled to perfection. The result is a delightful char and a burst of bold flavors with each bite. Ideal for an appetizer or a main dish, these skewers are sure to be a hit for those who love a little spice in their meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Skewer: Thread the shrimp onto skewers. We love these sustainable Bamboo skewers.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are pink and slightly charred.
- Serving: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Use these biodegradable palm leaf plates to keep the ocean minded coastal vibe going with quick cleanup!
10. Baked Snapper with Citrus and Herbs
This Baked Snapper with Citrus and Herbs is a celebration of coastal flavors in a festive package. This dish features a whole snapper, tenderly baked with slices of lemon, lime, and orange, plus a medley of fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. The result is a deliciously aromatic and succulent fish, perfect as the centerpiece of a special holiday meal. It's a simple, elegant dish that brings the freshness of the sea to your table with a zesty, herbal twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole snapper (about 2-3 lbs), cleaned and scaled
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the snapper and pat dry. Season the cavity with salt and pepper.
- Stuffing: Stuff the cavity of the snapper with citrus slices and fresh herbs. Drizzle the outside with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Baking: Place the snapper in a baking dish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serving: Let the snapper rest for a few minutes before serving. Place on a serving dish like this biodegradable palm leave platter and garnish. Finish your table settings with these matching dinner plates. For a festive holiday look, try some of these garnishes to complete the centerpiece of your table:
Holiday Garnishes to Add a Festive Touch to Your Table
- Citrus Slices: Thin slices of lemon, lime, or orange not only look beautiful but also complement the flavor of the snapper. Arrange them around the fish or along the edge of the tray.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or rosemary can add a fresh, green touch. Rosemary sprigs are particularly festive as they resemble pine needles.
- Edible Flowers: Edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums can add a pop of color and an elegant touch to your presentation.
- Pomegranate Seeds: Scatter pomegranate seeds around the snapper for a splash of vibrant red, which is very festive and also adds a fresh, slightly tart flavor.
- Red and Green Bell Pepper Strips: Thin strips of red and green bell peppers can be artfully arranged for a Christmas color theme.
- Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries can be used for a touch of holiday red. They can be scattered around the tray or arranged in small clusters.
- Star Anise and Cinnamon Sticks: For a more aromatic and visually intriguing garnish, star anise pods and cinnamon sticks can be placed around the tray, giving a hint of the holiday season.
- Red and Green Seaweed Salad: A small portion of seaweed salad placed strategically on the tray can add both color and a unique coastal flavor. Opt for varieties that naturally have red and green hues.
- Festive Ribbon or Nautical Rope: Around the edge of the tray, you could place a thin nautical rope or a festive ribbon for an extra touch of holiday spirit. Just ensure it doesn't come into contact with the food.
- Seashells and Starfish: Decorate the tray with clean, decorative seashells and starfish around the edges. These sea elements add a coastal charm and can be arranged tastefully to enhance the presentation. (Be careful to ensure nobody, especially kids, thinks these are edible!)
11. Vegan Key Lime Pie with Cranberry Swirl
This Vegan Key Lime Pie with Cranberry Swirl combines the tangy flavor of Florida's signature key lime with the sweet and tart taste of cranberries, making it a festive and colorful addition to any meal. The cranberry brings a beautiful contrast both in flavor and appearance, perfect for a holiday treat all will enjoy.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (ensure they're vegan)
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted coconut oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for 4 hours then drained
- 3/4 cup key lime juice
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full fat)
- 1/2 cup agave syrup or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cranberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
For Topping (Optional):
- Coconut whipped cream
- Lime slices or zest for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted coconut oil until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- Make the Cranberry Swirl: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
- Make the Filling: Blend soaked cashews, key lime juice, coconut milk, agave or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, lime zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the crust. Drop spoonfuls of the cranberry mixture over the filling. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set (overnight is best).
- Serve: Top with coconut whipped cream and garnish with lime slices or zest.
12. Vegan Coastal Coconut Chai Latte (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Versions)
The Vegan Coconut Chai Latte is versatile and delicious, providing a warm, spiced beverage that complements any dessert. Its vegan base ensures it's suitable for all dietary preferences, and the option to add spiced rum or bourbon allows for an easy transition to a more indulgent, alcoholic version.
Ingredients:
For Both Versions:
- 1 cup coconut milk (or any other plant-based milk)
- 1 black tea bag or 1 teaspoon loose leaf black tea
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- A pinch of ground cloves
- A pinch of ground cardamom
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice (adjust to taste)
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
- 1 oz spiced rum or bourbon (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew the Chai: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and cardamom. Heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Add the tea bag or loose leaf tea and let it steep for about 5 minutes.
- Add Sweetener: Remove the tea bag or strain the loose leaf tea. Stir in the maple syrup or your choice of sweetener, adjusting according to your taste.
- For the Alcoholic Version: If making the alcoholic version, stir in the spiced rum or bourbon.
- Serve: Pour the chai latte into a mug. For an eco-friendly disposable option try these biodegradable hot cups with festive colors, easy cleanup, and a touch of sea life to help bring the coastal charm to your get together. If desired, froth a little extra coconut milk and spoon it on top. This handheld frother comes with a lifetime warranty. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Enjoy: Serve warm as a cozy and fragrant after-dinner drink. It pairs wonderfully with vegan desserts and offers a comforting end to the meal.
These holiday seafood recipes are perfect for bringing a taste of the coast to your festive celebrations. At Blue Moon Vacation Rentals, we encourage you to explore the flavors of the ocean and share these culinary delights with your loved ones no matter where you are, near or far. Whether you're staying at one of our beautiful Navarre Beach Vacation Rentals, hosting in your home, or visiting with family around the world, these dishes are sure to delight and bring the joy of the Gulf coast into your holiday festivities!
Happy holidays, and may your season be filled with love, joy, laughter, and delicious food!
