In the Philippines, Holy Week is a time to reflect, get in touch with the Divine, and create meaningful moments with loved ones. Apart from the traditional Visita Iglesia and the Reading of the Passion, what brings families together during that time is food. As avoiding meat products is one of the customs observed during the season, Filipinos get creative with the seafood dishes they serve.

To help Filipinos whip up the best seafood dishes this Lenten season, Cold Storage shares a few recipes using its fresh products to inspire everyone to broaden their culinary skills when it comes to cooking seafood.

“We love the fact that buying seafood now is very convenient and no longer as expensive as before,” says Cold Storage president Marco Qua. “We make sure that during the weeks leading up to Lent, the shelves are stocked so that everyone can have great quality seafood at home, just like what our father envisioned.”

Renowned for its commitment to freshness, sustainability, and superior taste, Cold Storage presents a diverse array of offerings to satisfy every palate, perfect for those observing Lenten traditions or simply craving delectable, high-quality seafood.

Baked salmon

Salmon is known as a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins D and B12, and selenium, which help in improving cognitive function, supporting for bone health, and reducing risk of heart disease. For a simple and delicious preparation, try baking salmon filets with a honey mustard glaze. Mix together honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and lemon juice, then spread the mixture over the salmon before baking until flaky and tender.

Pan-seared sea bass

Vitamin D, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids are some of the essential nutrients one can get from Chilean Sea Bass. It is a lean source of protein and is low in calories and saturated fats. According to Cold Storage, its tender flesh is perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. To put a gourmet twist on it, foodies can try pan-searing sea bass filets with a lemon herb butter sauce. Season the filets with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then sear in a hot skillet until golden brown. Finish by adding a squeeze of lemon juice and a dollop of herbed butter for a burst of flavor.

Smoked salmon bagel toast

A quick and easy way to serve smoked salmon is by adding it to a bagel toast. To do it, top your toasted bagel with smoked salmon, a smear of cream cheese, sliced tomato, red onion, and capers. A garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice will round up the flavors of this brunch-ready treat. Smoked salmon retains the nutritional benefits of fresh salmon, including its omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins. It is also lower in calories and saturated fat compared to many other protein sources.

Grilled shrimp

Local shrimp (or suahe) from Lokal by Cold Storage has been the company’s pride and joy for over 40 years. Shrimp is a low-calorie protein source that is rich in nutrients such as iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. It is also a good source of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. One of the ways that best highlight shrimps’ flavor is by grilling it. To do that, simply toss the shrimps with olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest. Grill them until lightly charred and cooked through and serve over a bed of whole grain pasta or salad greens.

Scallop risotto

Scallops are rich with vitamin B12, magnesium, and potassium. Cold Storage sustainably harvests its scallops from Cebu, highlighting the brand’s commitment to quality. For them, people can enhance the natural sweetness of local scallops by searing them in a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil until golden brown. Finish with a splash of white wine and a squeeze of lemon juice, then serve over a bed of sautéed spinach or risotto for an elegant and nutritious meal.

With a dedication to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Cold Storage remains a trusted destination for discerning seafood enthusiasts seeking the finest products for their Lenten meals. People can find their fresh seafood offerings at its stores in Banawe, Quezon City and at Wilson Street in San Juan City. To know about it, visit @coldstorageseafood on Facebook and @coldstorageph on Instagram.