A Taste of Summer from the Sea
When July rolls around, there’s no better time to enjoy the incredible bounty of the Alabama Gulf Coast. This is peak season for many local seafood favorites—meaning more flavor, more freshness, and more opportunities to bring a taste of the sea to your summer table.
At Piggly Wiggly Birmingham, we’re proud to offer a wide variety of seafood that reflects the richness of our regional waters. From tender Gulf shrimp to savory red snapper, our stores feature options that celebrate Alabama’s coastal heritage and support hardworking local fisheries.
Whether you’re planning a backyard seafood boil or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, we’re here to help you bring home the best of July’s catch.
What’s In Season This July
Seafood availability may vary by store, but our seafood departments are always happy to help. Looking for something specific? Just ask—we can often special order your favorite Gulf Coast catch.
Red Snapper
Firm with a mild, sweet flavor, red snapper is a versatile favorite that holds up beautifully on the grill or in the oven. Try it whole with lemon and herbs or filleted with a spice rub for bold flavor.
Gulf Shrimp
July is prime time for Gulf shrimp—plump, sweet, and firm. Boil them with corn and potatoes, skewer them for the grill, or toss them into a hot skillet with garlic and butter for an easy, mouthwatering meal.
Flounder
Delicate and mild, flounder is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Pan-fry it with seasoned flour and a splash of lemon, or bake it with fresh herbs and citrus slices for a light, refreshing option.
King Mackerel
A rich, oily fish with a bold flavor, king mackerel stands up well to smoking or grilling. Marinate in citrus and spices for a zesty kick and serve with a side of summer veggies.
Redfish (Red Drum)
This firm, slightly sweet fish is ideal for grilling, roasting, or blackening. Pair it with Cajun spices and a tangy remoulade for a true Southern classic.
Soft-Shell Crabs
A seasonal delicacy and a true Southern treat, soft-shell crabs are only available for a short time. They’re best lightly fried and served on a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of spicy mayo.
Gulf Fresh & Community Proud
Buying local seafood does more than satisfy your taste buds—it supports Alabama’s coastal economy and sustains traditions that have fed our communities for generations.
At Piggly Wiggly Birmingham, we are deeply committed to sourcing high-quality, local seafood whenever possible. Choosing fresh-from-the-Gulf products not only ensures better flavor and freshness but also keeps dollars close to home, supporting the hardworking families who bring this incredible food to market.
Simple, Southern, and Delicious
Need inspiration for the kitchen? Here are five easy, flavor-packed recipes using July’s best local seafood:
Grilled Red Snapper
Season a whole red snapper with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. Grill over medium heat until the skin is crisp and the flesh flakes easily.
Shrimp Boil
A summer essential! Boil Gulf shrimp with corn, red potatoes, sausage, and Old Bay seasoning. Serve with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce.
Pan-Fried Flounder
Dredge flounder fillets in seasoned cornmeal, then pan-fry in a cast-iron skillet. Add a splash of hot sauce and a squeeze of lemon for the perfect finish.
Blackened Redfish
Rub redfish fillets with Cajun spices and sear in a hot skillet until deeply browned. Serve with rice and a simple green salad.
Soft-Shell Crab Sandwich
Dredge crabs in flour and pan-fry until crispy. Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and spicy remoulade sauce.
Feast with Your Eyes First
A great meal starts with a great presentation. Here are some visual tips for showing off your seafood creations:
- Set up a fresh seafood display on ice for parties or gatherings.
- Capture step-by-step cooking photos for sharing with friends and family.
- Plate your finished dishes with vibrant summer sides—like grilled vegetables or citrus slaw—for maximum color and appeal.
- Use a regional map or table card showing where your seafood came from to highlight your commitment to local sourcing.
Make July a Month of Fresh Flavor
This July, treat yourself to the bold flavors and unbeatable freshness of Gulf Coast seafood. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood chef or just starting to experiment with summer favorites, Piggly Wiggly Birmingham has everything you need to make the most of the season.
Make July a month of fresh flavor—visit your local Pig for the best seasonal seafood, recipe inspiration, and everything you need for summer on a plate!