Summer has finally arrived, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing seafood salad? Whether you’re looking for a light and easy meal or a flavorful snack to enjoy by the pool, these 18 seafood salad recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic combinations like shrimp and avocado to more exotic pairings like tuna poke and squid salad, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of seafood salads, exploring different flavors, textures, and ingredients that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration for your next picnic or BBQ, these recipes are sure to impress. So let’s dive in and get started!
Classic Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a hint of spice, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Let the shrimp cool slightly before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled shrimp, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped jalapeño.
4. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lobster and Mango Salad with Lime Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing combination of succulent lobster, sweet mango, and zesty lime dressing. This tropical-inspired recipe is perfect for a light yet decadent meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine lobster meat, mango, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the lobster mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a cold salad)
Crab and Cucumber Salad with Dill
This light and zesty salad is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up. Fresh crab, cucumber, and dill come together in harmony to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, cucumber slices, and chopped dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the crab mixture and toss until well combined.
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.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Spicy Tuna Poke Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional poke, this spicy tuna salad combines the bold flavors of sashimi-grade tuna with a kick of heat from Korean chili flakes (gochugaru). Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, Gochujang, and ginger. Mix until the tuna is well coated.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and chilled.
Grilled Octopus and Potato Salad
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing and savory recipe that combines the smoky flavor of grilled octopus with a light and creamy potato salad. Perfect for a warm evening, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into tentacle-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for potato salad dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Add octopus pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until charred and tender.
4. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and let cool.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooled potatoes, chopped parsley (if using), and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve grilled octopus on top of potato salad.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Seafood Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons
Seafood Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons: A flavorful twist on the classic salad, featuring succulent seafood and crispy garlic croutons.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 pound cooked shrimp, scallops, and mussels
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup garlic croutons (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked seafood, and Caesar dressing. Toss to coat.
2. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss again.
3. Top with garlic croutons and serve immediately.
Garlic Croutons Recipe:
– 1/2 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together bread cubes and minced garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Salad with Olives and Feta
Capture the essence of the Mediterranean coast with this refreshing seafood salad, featuring a medley of flavors and textures. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp 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, red onion, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Thai-Style Squid Salad with Chili and Mint
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of squid with the spiciness of Thai chilies, all tied together with a hint of mint. A perfect dish for warm weather or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine squid, chilies, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the squid mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Scallop and Grapefruit Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing and flavorful combination of succulent scallops, tangy grapefruit, and zesty citrus vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 grapefruits, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine grapefruit segments, chopped parsley, and grilled scallops.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, and honey to make citrus vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing combination of smoky salmon, peppery arugula, and zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
2. Arrange arugula on a plate or in a bowl.
3. Slice the smoked salmon into thin strips and place on top of the arugula.
4. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Asian-Inspired Seafood Salad with Sesame Dressing
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 flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, scallops, and mussels
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, red bell pepper, and scallions.
2. Add the cooked seafood on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Corn Salad
A flavorful twist on traditional shrimp salad, this Cajun-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn, tangy red bell peppers, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, heat corn kernels over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred.
6. Combine cooked shrimp, corn, and red bell pepper in a bowl; toss to combine.
7. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Pasta Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing
This refreshing seafood pasta salad is perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of tender shrimp, scallops, and linguine pasta in a zesty lemon-herb dressing will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cooked and chilled
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 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 bowl, combine seafood, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and cooked pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Greek-Style Seafood Salad with Tzatziki
Experience the bright flavors of Greece with this refreshing seafood salad, featuring succulent shrimp, scallops, and mussels, paired with a tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Marinate seafood in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill seafood until cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled seafood, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and lemon juice.
5. Stir in tzatziki sauce just before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Citrusy Crab and Orange Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad that combines succulent crab, juicy oranges, and tangy citrus flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, orange segments, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, and olive oil.
3. Pour the citrus dressing over the crab mixture; toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Herbed Mussel and Tomato Salad
This colorful salad combines the brininess of mussels with the sweetness of tomatoes, all tied together with a burst of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water, then steam until opened.
2. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, parsley, basil, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the cooked mussels to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Calamari Salad with Cilantro and Lime
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this refreshing salad featuring tender calamari, tangy lime juice, and a kick of heat from jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the calamari and cook for 2-3 minutes or until opaque.
2. Remove the calamari from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cilantro, red onion, and chopped jalapeño pepper.
4. Add the cooked calamari to the salad and toss gently.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seafood Cobb Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic cobb salad, this recipe adds succulent seafood to a bed of crispy greens and croutons. The tangy and creamy dill dressing brings it all together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cooked shrimp, scallops, and mussels
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 croutons (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, seafood, blue cheese, bell pepper, and dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the creamy dill dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with croutons and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the refreshing world of seafood salads! With summer just around the corner, these 18 recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s. From classic shrimp and avocado to spicy tuna poke, and even grilled octopus and potato salad, there’s something for everyone. Each dish combines the freshest ingredients with bold flavors to create a perfect blend of taste and texture. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, these seafood salads are sure to hit the spot.