With Lent (Cuaresma) beginning on Wednesday, here are some favorite recipes from the blog archives that are perfect for the season. Whether you observe the tradition of avoiding meat on Fridays or simply want to eat lighter and add more seafood and meatless options to your weekly menu, these Colombian-inspired dishes offer comforting, flavorful choices. Each recipe highlights fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and straightforward preparation—ideal for family meals during Cuaresma or any time you crave seafood and lighter fare. Read the short descriptions below and click “See the recipe” for the full instructions.
Are you eating more seafood or meatless dishes during Lent? Share your favorites in the comments. Buen provecho!
Cazuela de Mariscos (Seafood Steew) — A rich, creamy seafood stew brimming with mixed shellfish and firm white fish simmered in a fragrant broth. Traditionally served with rice and a squeeze of lime, this cazuela balances creaminess and acidity for a hearty yet delicate meal. See the recipe
Arroz Caldoso de Camarones (Shrimp Soupy Rice) — Comforting and spoonable, this shrimp soupy rice is lightly saucy and richly flavored with shrimp stock, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It makes a satisfying one-pot dinner that’s easy to scale for guests and keeps well as leftovers. See the recipe
Camarones a la Criolla con Coco (Creole and Coconut Shrimp) — A vibrant coastal dish combining sweet coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices with tender shrimp. It highlights tropical flavors while remaining light and satisfying—serve it over rice or with fried plantains for a complete meal. See the recipe
Pescado Aborrajado (Colombian-Style Battered Fish) — Crispy and golden, this battered fish is a popular street-food style preparation that contrasts a crunchy exterior with flaky, delicate fish inside. It’s ideal for a casual Lent meal when you want something indulgent without red meat. See the recipe
Pescado Frito Colombiano (Colombian-Style Fried Whole Fish) — A showstopping whole fried fish with crisp skin and tender meat, often seasoned with lime and garlic. Serve with simple sides like patacones, salad, or coconut rice for an impressive Lent dinner that stays true to coastal Colombian flavors. See recipe here
Salmon with Shrimp Sauce (Salmón con Salsa de Camarones) — Pan-seared salmon topped with a savory shrimp sauce creates a lovely contrast of flavors and textures. This dish pairs the richness of salmon with a bright, slightly briny sauce that lifts the whole plate. See the recipe
Viudo de Pescado (Fish Widower) — A comforting, brothy fish stew from Colombia’s Caribbean coast featuring tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and yuca or potatoes. Light, aromatic, and perfect for cooler evenings, it’s a simple way to enjoy fresh fish with homey flavors. See the recipe
Tapao de Pescado (Fish Stew) — A rustic fish stew cooked with vegetables and herbs, often finished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Tapao emphasizes clean flavors and the natural sweetness of fish, making it ideal for a light, nourishing Lent meal. See the recipe
Rice with Shrimp (Arroz con Camarones) — A family-friendly rice and shrimp dish with tomatoes, peppers, and fragrant seasonings. It’s a satisfying one-pot option that’s colorful, balanced, and easy to prepare—perfect for busy Fridays or weekend gatherings. See the recipe
Pescado a la Criolla (Fish with Creole Sauce) — Fish cooked in a vibrant Creole-style sauce of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs. This dish is full of bright, layered flavors and is excellent served with rice or boiled potatoes for a balanced Lent-friendly meal. See the recipe
These recipes showcase the variety of Colombian seafood preparations that are ideal for Cuaresma: stews, fried fish, rice dishes, and coconut-infused coastal flavors. They make it easy to plan a week of satisfying, lighter meals without sacrificing taste. If you try any of these dishes, leave a note about how you adapted the recipe or which sides you served—others will appreciate your suggestions.