Dive into the world of fresh and flavorful seafood salads! With their vibrant colors, varied textures, and impressive nutritional profiles, it’s no wonder why seafood salads have become a staple in many cuisines around the globe. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore 20 mouthwatering seafood salad recipes that are not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make.
From classic combinations featuring shrimp and avocado to more adventurous pairings like grilled octopus and citrus, these salads are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, we’ve got you covered with our selection of seafood salad recipes that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of seafood salads and discover the perfect recipe for your next meal or gathering!
Classic Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, crunchy red onion, and a hint of citrus, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a starter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, avocado, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Octopus and Citrus Salad
A Mediterranean-inspired dish that showcases the tender sweetness of grilled octopus paired with a bright and refreshing citrus salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and tentacles removed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the octopus.
4. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Meanwhile, combine orange segments, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
6. Once the octopus is cooked, slice it into bite-sized pieces and add to the citrus salad.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crab and Mango Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mango and the savory flavor of crab meat, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mango, crab meat, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Seafood Pasta Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing seafood pasta salad featuring shrimp, scallops, and mussels, tossed with a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté seafood in olive oil until pink and cooked through.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Toss cooked pasta with seafood mixture, then drizzle with lemon herb dressing.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tuna and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad combines the bold flavors of spicy tuna with the coolness of cucumber, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer. With its Asian-inspired flavors, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup of spicy mayo (see note)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, cucumber slices, and spicy mayo.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Pour the soy-sesame mixture over the tuna-cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Salad with Olives and Feta
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the best of the Mediterranean, featuring succulent seafood, creamy feta, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the seafood according to package instructions or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood, sliced olives, crumbled feta, and chopped parsley.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including cooking time for seafood)
Lobster and Corn Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
This sweet and savory salad combines succulent lobster, juicy corn, and fragrant basil for a taste of summer’s best. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat (or 4 ounces per serving)
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lobster meat, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together basil leaves, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the lobster mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (using pre-cooked lobster and fresh ingredients)
Asian-Inspired Seafood Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines succulent seafood, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sesame dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked shrimp, scallops, and mussels
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Add cooked seafood on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour sesame dressing over the seafood mixture; toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Scallop and Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of scallops with the peppery flavor of arugula, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula leaves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Toss to combine.
4. Slice grilled scallops into thin pieces.
5. Add scallop slices to the arugula mixture and toss gently to combine.
6. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grilling time)
Smoked Salmon and Quinoa Salad
This refreshing salad combines the richness of smoked salmon with the nutty flavor of quinoa, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a quick snack. With its vibrant colors and diverse textures, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 avocado, diced
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped dill, red onion, and avocado.
3. Add flaked smoked salmon and cooked quinoa to the bowl.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Calamari and Chickpea Salad with Garlic Aioli
This refreshing salad combines crispy fried calamari with creamy chickpeas, crunchy celery, and a zesty garlic aioli. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid (calamari)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic aioli ingredients: 3 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the calamari under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Fry the calamari in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, celery, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. For the garlic aioli, blend all ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth.
6. Combine the cooked calamari with the chickpea mixture and drizzle with garlic aioli. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Cobb Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing
Experience the fresh flavors of the sea with this seafood cobb salad, featuring succulent shrimp and scallops atop a bed of crisp greens. Our creamy dill dressing adds a tangy twist to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– Creamy Dill Dressing (recipe below)
Creamy Dill Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss shrimp and scallops with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, blue cheese, chives, and sliced eggs.
5. Add roasted seafood on top of the salad.
6. Drizzle with Creamy Dill Dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Shrimp and Grapefruit Salad with Mint
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the tanginess of grapefruit and the brightness of mint. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit segments
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, grapefruit segments, and mint leaves.
3. Once the shrimp are cooked, let them cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
4. Add the sliced shrimp to the salad bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seafood Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
A classic salad gets a seafood twist! This recipe combines the flavors of tender seafood, crispy croutons, and creamy dressing for a delicious meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked shrimp, scallops, and mussels (or your favorite seafood)
– 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Crouton Recipe:
– 1/2 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, toss crouton ingredients until bread is evenly coated.
3. Spread on baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
4. Meanwhile, combine seafood, Caesar dressing, and mixed greens in a large bowl.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and homemade croutons. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tropical Seafood Salad with Pineapple and Coconut
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for warm weather, this tropical seafood salad combines succulent seafood, juicy pineapple, and creamy coconut in a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cooked and chilled
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked seafood, pineapple chunks, and shredded coconut.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Seafood Nicoise Salad with Green Beans and Potatoes
A classic French-inspired salad that combines the freshness of green beans, the creaminess of potatoes, and the ocean’s bounty. This Seafood Nicoise Salad is perfect for a quick yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cooked and chilled
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed and blanched
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender; drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked seafood, green beans, and cooled potatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and mustard.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with sliced hard-boiled egg and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (excluding cooking time for potatoes and seafood)
Zesty Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent crab, creamy avocado, and a hint of zesty lemon-herb dressing for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for warm weather or as a seafood-inspired appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado and crab meat.
2. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture, then drizzle with olive oil.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
5. Gently fold the ingredients together to combine.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Seafood Salad with Mango Salsa
A refreshing twist on traditional seafood salads, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, scallops, and crab with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, scallops, crab meat, mixed greens, and red bell pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Prepare the Mango Salsa by combining diced mango, chopped jalapeño, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl.
5. Serve chilled seafood salad with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Grilled Shrimp and Watermelon Salad
Summer just got a whole lot tastier! This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled shrimp with the juiciness of watermelon, all wrapped up in a zesty lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine watermelon, olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine.
4. Slice grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad bowl.
5. Squeeze remaining lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grilling time)
Seafood Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful seafood salad that combines succulent shrimp, scallops, and crab meat with a zesty lemon garlic dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, crab meat)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the seafood and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
3. Add the dressing to the seafood mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or bowls. Top each plate with the seafood salad and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the ocean of flavors with these 20 delicious seafood salad recipes! From classic combinations like shrimp and avocado to more adventurous pairings like grilled octopus and citrus, there’s something for every taste. Try your hand at crab and mango salad with lime dressing or seafood pasta salad with lemon herb dressing. For a spicy kick, go for the tuna and cucumber salad or the Mediterranean seafood salad with olives and feta. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to catch your eye.
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