Seafood Salad Recipe – 5 Fresh & Healthy Steps!

Seafood salad recipe is a light, refreshing, and protein-packed dish that brings together the best flavors of the ocean with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main dish, or a side, this seafood salad recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to customize.

One of the greatest advantages of seafood salad is its nutritional value. Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Combined with fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing, it’s not only delicious but also a healthy option for those looking for a balanced meal.

This dish is perfect for warm weather, as it requires minimal cooking and can be served chilled. Whether you prefer a classic Mediterranean-style seafood salad or a creamy version, there’s a recipe variation for everyone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to create the perfect seafood salad recipe, including ingredient selection, step-by-step preparation, and expert tips.

Ingredients for the Best Seafood Salad

To make a fresh and delicious seafood salad, you’ll need high-quality seafood, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful dressing. Here’s everything you’ll need:

1. Seafood Selection

You can use a combination of different seafood types for the best texture and flavor. Here are some excellent options:

• Shrimp – Cooked, peeled, and deveined
• Crab Meat – Fresh or canned, lump crab meat works best
• Calamari (Squid) – Sliced and lightly boiled
• Scallops – Seared or poached
• Lobster Meat – Cooked and chopped (optional)
• Mussels or Clams – Steamed and removed from shells (optional)

2. Vegetables & Herbs

Fresh vegetables and herbs add crunch and flavor to the salad:

• Cherry Tomatoes – Halved for a juicy burst of flavor
• Cucumber – Sliced or diced for a refreshing crunch
• Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a mild tangy taste
• Celery – Chopped for an added crunch
• Bell Peppers – Red, yellow, or green, diced
• Avocado – Optional, for a creamy texture
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – Chopped, for a fresh herbal touch

3. Dressing & Seasonings

A light and zesty dressing enhances the flavors of the seafood:

• Olive Oil – Extra virgin for the best taste
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed for a tangy, refreshing taste
• Garlic – Minced for added depth
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a slight kick to the dressing
• Red Wine Vinegar – Balances the flavors
• Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For a touch of heat (optional)

4. Optional Add-Ins

• Cooked Pasta (like orzo or fusilli) – For a heartier dish
• Capers or Olives – For a Mediterranean twist
• Feta Cheese – Pairs well with a Greek-style seafood salad

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Seafood Salad Recipe

Creating a delicious seafood salad is simple and requires just a few steps. Follow this easy guide to prepare a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prepare the Seafood

Properly preparing the seafood is key to ensuring the best flavor and texture.

🦐 Cooking Shrimp

If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.

Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary, then set aside.

🦑 Cooking Calamari (Squid)

Slice cleaned squid into rings.

Boil water and add the calamari rings. Cook for 45 seconds to 1 minute—overcooking will make them rubbery.

Drain and rinse under cold water.

🦞 Preparing Crab Meat

If using fresh crab meat, remove any shells.

If using canned crab, drain excess liquid before using.

🦪 Cooking Mussels or Clams (Optional)

Scrub the shells clean.

Steam in a covered pot with ½ cup of water or white wine for 5–7 minutes until they open.

Discard any unopened shells and remove the meat.

🦐 Cooking Scallops (Optional)

Pat dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Heat a pan over medium-high heat with a little olive oil.

Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.

Chop the Vegetables

While the seafood is cooling, prepare the vegetables:

Cherry Tomatoes – Cut in half.

Cucumber – Dice into small cubes.

Red Onion – Slice thinly for a mild tang.

Celery – Finely chop for a nice crunch.

Bell Peppers – Dice into small pieces.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro) – Chop finely.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Salt & black pepper to taste
(Optional) ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood and chopped vegetables.

Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

If using avocado, add it last to prevent it from getting mushy.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Chill & Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a lemon wedge before serving.

This seafood salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or a side of fresh greens.

Delicious Variations of Seafood Salad Recipe

Seafood salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on regional flavors and personal preferences. Below are three popular variations: Mediterranean, Asian, and creamy-style seafood salad.

1. Mediterranean Seafood Salad 🥗🇬🇷

This version is light, refreshing, and inspired by Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

• Seafood: Shrimp, calamari, mussels, and crab meat
• Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, celery
• Add-ins: Kalamata olives, capers, and crumbled feta cheese
• Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar
• Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil

How to Prepare:

1. Follow the same seafood preparation steps.
2. Toss all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and red wine vinegar for the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and mix well.
5. Chill for 30 minutes and serve.

✅ Pairs well with: Grilled pita bread or a side of hummus.

2. Asian-Inspired Seafood Salad 🥗🍜

This version features a tangy soy-based dressing with a hint of sesame and ginger.

Ingredients:

• Seafood: Shrimp, crab, scallops
• Vegetables: Shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, cucumbers, and red bell peppers
• Add-ins: Sliced almonds or chopped peanuts
• Dressing: Soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, fresh ginger, and garlic
• Herbs: Fresh cilantro and green onions

How to Prepare:

1. Prepare and cook the seafood as described earlier.
2. Thinly slice the vegetables and mix in a bowl.
3. Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and garlic for the dressing.
4. Toss everything together and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

✅ Pairs well with: Chilled rice noodles or crispy wonton strips.

3. Creamy Seafood Salad 🥗🥑

This version is a richer take on seafood salad, perfect for sandwiches or a filling meal.

Ingredients:

• Seafood: Imitation crab or real crab meat, shrimp, and lobster (optional)
• Vegetables: Celery, red onion, bell pepper
• Dressing: Mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (for a lighter version), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning
• Add-ins: Hard-boiled eggs (chopped) and avocado

How to Prepare:

1. Cook and cool the seafood as directed.
2. Finely chop the vegetables and mix with the seafood.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
4. Gently fold the dressing into the seafood mixture.
5. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.

✅ Pairs well with: Croissants, lettuce wraps, or crackers.

Serving and Pairing Ideas for Your Seafood Salad Recipe

Seafood salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, whether as a main course, side dish, or appetizer. Pairing it with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and makes it a well-rounded meal.

1. Serving Ideas

🦐 As a Main Course

• Serve in a large bowl with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add a side of toasted bread or crackers for a complete meal.
• Mix with cooked orzo or quinoa for a heartier dish.

🥗 As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled fish, shrimp skewers, or roasted chicken.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing meal.

🌮 In Wraps or Sandwiches

• Spoon the seafood salad into lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
• Use as a filling for soft pita bread, croissants, or baguettes.
• Serve in a tortilla wrap with extra avocado and a drizzle of spicy mayo.

🍸 As an Appetizer

• Serve in small cocktail glasses for an elegant seafood cocktail.
• Place on crisp endive leaves or cucumber slices for bite-sized snacks.
• Use stuffed avocado halves as an edible bowl.

2. Best Side Dishes to Serve with Seafood Salad

🥖 Breads & Crackers

• Garlic bread or crusty French baguette
• Buttery croissants (perfect with creamy seafood salad)
• Saltine crackers or tortilla chips for added crunch

🥗 Fresh Salads

• Arugula and citrus salad – Adds a zesty contrast to seafood flavors
• Greek salad – Complements Mediterranean-style seafood salad
• Cucumber and dill salad – Light and refreshing

🍚 Grains & Pasta

• Quinoa or couscous – Absorbs the dressing beautifully
• Chilled pasta – Fusilli, orzo, or penne work well
• Brown rice – Adds a hearty texture to the meal

🍷 Beverage Pairings

• White wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood.
• Lemon-infused water – A refreshing non-alcoholic option.
• Iced tea with mint – A light and cooling drink to balance the flavors.

Serve alongside a Best Steak Quesadilla for a surf-and-turf meal.Pair with Brownie Cookies for a satisfying sweet finish.Complement with a warm dish like Best Smoked Meatloaf for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Seafood Salad

Making a seafood salad that is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced requires a few expert tips. Here’s how to ensure the best taste and texture while avoiding common mistakes.

1. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Seafood 🦐🐟

Fresh is best – If possible, use fresh seafood from a reputable source. Look for firm, shiny shrimp and crab meat with a mild ocean scent.

Frozen seafood works too – If using frozen seafood, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight rather than at room temperature to prevent mushiness.

Avoid overcooked seafood – Overboiling shrimp, calamari, or scallops can make them rubbery. Always follow recommended cooking times.

2. Keep Seafood Properly Chilled ❄️

After cooking, place seafood in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and keep it firm.

If not serving immediately, refrigerate the salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Avoid leaving the seafood salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

3. Use the Right Dressing Balance 🥗

• Seafood is delicate, so the dressing should be light and not overpowering.
• Avoid excess oil or heavy mayo, as it can weigh down the salad.
• Lemon juice and vinegar help enhance the natural flavors of seafood.

✅ Pro Tip: Dress the salad lightly at first, then adjust the amount before serving.

4. Let the Flavors Marinate ⏳

• For the best taste, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• This helps the seafood absorb the dressing and enhances the overall flavor.

✅ Exception: If using avocado, add it just before serving to prevent browning.

5. Avoid These Common Mistakes ❌

Overcooking seafood – Stick to recommended cooking times for the best texture.
Using warm seafood – Let it cool completely before mixing to avoid wilting veggies.
Adding too much dressing – Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Not draining excess liquid – Drain seafood well before mixing to prevent a watery salad.
Skipping seasoning – A little salt, pepper, and fresh herbs bring out the best flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What do you need for a seafood salad?

To make a classic seafood salad, you need:

Seafood: Shrimp, crab meat, calamari, scallops, or lobster
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, red onion, bell peppers
Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or dill)
Optional Add-ins: Avocado, olives, capers, feta cheese, or pasta

The ingredients can be customized depending on your taste and regional preferences.

2. What are the ingredients in crab salad?

Crab salad is a creamy and flavorful dish made with:

Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat or imitation crab
Vegetables: Celery, red onion, and bell pepper for crunch
Dressing: Mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (optional), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice
Seasonings: Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper
Optional Add-ins: Hard-boiled eggs, avocado, or capers

Crab salad is often served as a sandwich filling, in lettuce cups, or with crackers.

3. What ingredients are in a Crab Louie Salad? 🦀🥗

Crab Louie Salad, also known as “The King of Salads,” is a classic West Coast dish with:

Crab Meat: Fresh Dungeness crab (or substitute with lump crab meat)
Greens: Romaine lettuce or mixed greens
Vegetables: Hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, avocado, asparagus, and cucumbers
Dressing: Traditional Louie Dressing (made with mayonnaise, chili sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and horseradish)
Optional Add-ins: Black olives and green onions

It’s typically served chilled with Louie Dressing drizzled on top.

4. What ingredients are in a seafood extender? 🦀

A seafood extender is an imitation seafood product made primarily from surimi, a processed fish paste. It is commonly used in salads, sushi rolls, and seafood dishes.

✅ Main Ingredients in Seafood Extender:

• Surimi (Fish Paste) – Usually made from white fish like pollock
• Starch (Potato or Wheat) – Used as a binder
• Egg Whites – Helps hold the mixture together
• Sugar & Salt – For flavor enhancement
• Crab or Lobster Flavoring – Artificial or natural extracts
• Coloring (Paprika or Carmine) – Gives the imitation crab its red-orange color

Seafood extender is commonly found in imitation crab sticks and is a budget-friendly alternative to real crab meat.

Conclusion

Seafood salad recipe is a delicious, refreshing, and versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste preference. Whether you prefer a light Mediterranean version, a tangy Asian-inspired salad, or a creamy crab variation, this seafood salad recipe is perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious and flavorful option for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer.

By following the seafood salad recipe step-by-step, selecting high-quality seafood, and using the right balance of dressing and seasonings, you can create the perfect dish at home. Whether served on its own, with bread, in wraps, or as a side dish, this seafood salad recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Now it’s time to try this seafood salad recipe for yourself! Gather your ingredients, experiment with different variations, and enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal. Bon appétit! 🍽️🐟

Seafood Salad Recipe – Fresh, Healthy, and Easy to Make

This seafood salad recipe is a light, refreshing, and protein-packed dish featuring shrimp, crab, and crisp vegetables tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. It’s quick to make, perfect for summer meals, and can be served as a main dish, side salad, or appetizer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine Mediterranean / American

Servings 4

Equipment

• ✔️ Large mixing bowl
• ✔ Cutting board
• ✔ Sharp knife
• ✔ Small whisk or fork
• ✔ Medium pot (for boiling seafood)
• ✔ Skillet (for searing scallops)
• ✔ Strainer

Ingredients

  

• Seafood:
• 1 lb shrimp cooked, peeled, and deveined
• ½ lb crab meat or imitation crab
• ½ lb calamari rings boiled for 1 minute
• ½ lb scallops seared or boiled (optional)
• Vegetables & Add-Ins:
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cucumber diced
• ½ red onion thinly sliced
• ½ cup celery chopped
• ½ bell pepper diced
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives optional
• 1 avocado diced (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
• Dressing:
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 garlic clove minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook the Seafood
• Shrimp: Boil in salted water for 2–3 minutes until pink, then transfer to an ice bath.
• Calamari: Boil for 45 seconds to 1 minute, drain, and cool.
• Scallops: Sear for 1–2 minutes per side in olive oil until golden.
• Crab Meat: If fresh, pick out any shells; if canned, drain excess liquid.
• Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
• Slice the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, chop the celery, and thinly slice the onion and bell pepper.
• Step 3: Make the Dressing
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked seafood, vegetables, and olives.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
• Add avocado last to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Step 5: Chill & Serve
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
• Serve chilled with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh greens

Notes

Substitutions: Swap shrimp with lobster or mussels for variety.
Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Make it Creamy: Add 2 tbsp of mayonnaise for a rich texture.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean / American
Diet: Pescatarian, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
Keywords
Seafood salad, shrimp and crab salad, fresh seafood salad, healthy seafood salad recipe, cold seafood salad, easy seafood salad, Mediterranean seafood salad

Nutrition (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 210mg

Keyword Seafood salad, shrimp and crab salad, fresh seafood salad, healthy seafood salad recipe, cold seafood salad, easy seafood salad, Mediterranean seafood salad