Italian seafood salad is a delightful dish that encapsulates the fresh flavors of the ocean, making it a staple in my summer repertoire. The combination of succulent shrimp and tender calamari brought together with vibrant herbs and a zesty dressing creates a refreshing experience that’s perfect for warm evenings or festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, this dish always impresses.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Italian seafood salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a quick and budget-friendly option that comes together in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family brunches. The freshness of the ingredients evokes a taste of summer, bringing an authentic Italian vibe right to your table. Plus, it’s a hit with both adults and kids due to its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation.
“Absolutely loved this seafood salad! The combination of fresh herbs with lemon is a game changer. I served it at my summer BBQ, and it was gone in minutes!”
Step-by-step overview
Making Italian seafood salad is a simple yet rewarding cooking experience. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to serve. Here’s how the process flows:
- Cook the shrimp and calamari.
- Cool and combine with fresh herbs.
- Dress with lemon juice and olive oil.
- Season and toss gently.
This salad is intended to be served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success. Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant dish:
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Calamari (cleaned and cut into rings)
- Fresh herbs (parsley and basil are ideal)
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed for optimal flavor)
- Olive oil (extra virgin for richness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Feel free to swap fresh herbs based on your preference—dill or cilantro could also make interesting additions!
Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to bring your Italian seafood salad to life:
- In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp and calamari until they are just done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes for the shrimp and a bit longer for calamari. Drain and let them cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled seafood and your chopped fresh herbs.
- Drizzle generously with fresh lemon juice and a splash of olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
- Gently toss the mixture to combine all those lovely flavors.
- Serve your salad chilled for the best experience.
Best ways to enjoy it
For serving, consider a few creative options. Plate the salad in a large bowl, garnished with a few whole herb sprigs for color. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread or a simple green salad. If you’re looking to elevate your meal, serve it alongside a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Italian seafood salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to two days. Note that the flavors will deepen, which can actually enhance the dish! However, if you need to store it for longer, consider freezing the shrimp and calamari prior to mixing, though I recommend enjoying the salad fresh for the best texture.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some practical tips to ensure your seafood salad turns out perfectly each time:
- Use high-quality, fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp or calamari; they should be tender, and overcooked seafood can become rubbery.
- Experiment with the herbs—mixing different flavors can yield delightful results.
Creative twists
Want to make your seafood salad unique? Here are some variations you can try:
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Swap in seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added crunch.
- A splash of hot sauce can kick up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Common questions
What is the prep time for the seafood salad?
Prep time is minimal, around 10-15 minutes, with cooking taking another 5-10 minutes.
Can I substitute frozen seafood?
Yes! Just make sure to properly thaw it before cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
What’s the best way to serve this?
This salad is best enjoyed chilled, either on its own or with crusty bread.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final thoughts
This Italian seafood salad is a culinary delight that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Give it a try and treat your taste buds to a refreshing experience. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your creations!
Italian Seafood Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp and calamari until just done, approximately 2-3 minutes for shrimp and a bit longer for calamari. Drain and let them cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled seafood and chopped fresh herbs.
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss the mixture to combine.
- Serve your salad chilled for the best flavor.