Creating a delicious seafood salad is a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of the ocean in a light and healthy dish. This recipe combines a variety of seafood with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing, perfect for a summer lunch, a light dinner, or an elegant appetizer. Below is a detailed guide to making a classic seafood salad, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and a serving suggestion table.

Ingredients

To make a seafood salad for 4 people, you will need the following ingredients:

• Seafood: 200g mixed seafood (such as shrimp, crab meat, and calamari), cooked and chilled
• Vegetables: 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ½ red onion, finely chopped; 10 cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 celery stalks, sliced
• Herbs: ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Dressing: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Seafood:

   • If using raw shrimp, peel and devein them, then boil in salted water for 2-3 minutes until pink. Drain and chill.
   • If using calamari, blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until tender, then drain and chill.
   • Ensure all seafood is cold before assembling the salad to maintain freshness.

2. Chop the Vegetables:

   Dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and celery into small, even pieces. Finely chop the red onion to avoid overpowering flavors. Halve the cherry tomatoes.

   
   （图片来源网络，侵删）

3. Make the Dressing:

   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be tangy yet balanced.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   In a large bowl, combine the chilled seafood, diced vegetables, and fresh herbs (parsley and dill). Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.

   
   （图片来源网络，侵删）

5. Chill and Serve:

   Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the taste and texture of the dish. Serve chilled, garnished with extra herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for Success

• Choose Fresh Seafood: The quality of the seafood is crucial. Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen seafood, and avoid any with a fishy odor.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients to prevent the seafood from breaking apart or the vegetables from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Dressing: Customize the dressing to your preference by adding more lemon juice for tanginess or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Add Variations: For a richer salad, you can include avocado chunks or cooked pasta. For a Mediterranean twist, add Kalamata olives and feta cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Here’s a table to help you pair the seafood salad with complementary dishes:

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen seafood for this salad?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but ensure it is properly thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain food safety. Cook the seafood according to the package instructions, then chill it thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

Q2: How long can the seafood salad be stored in the refrigerator?
A2: The seafood salad is best consumed within 1-2 days of preparation. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, note that the vegetables may release water over time, so the texture may change slightly. For the best flavor and freshness, enjoy it as soon as possible.

This seafood salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that highlights the natural flavors of the sea. With its vibrant colors and zesty taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy experimenting with different seafood combinations and dressings to make it your own!