Looking for a light, refreshing, and delicious dish? This Seafood Salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, side dish, or appetizer, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its creamy texture and delightful flavors. Made with fresh seafood and a creamy dressing, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 teaspoon Volcano Paste (or Sriracha for a spicy kick)
- 2 teaspoons real lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use light mayo for a healthier version)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion (or 1/2 teaspoon dried green onion)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Seafood Salad:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound cooked crab meat (or imitation crab for a budget-friendly option)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for added color and flavor)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing:
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Volcano Paste, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and finely chopped green onion. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference for spiciness and tanginess.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Prepare the Seafood Salad:
- Cook the Seafood: If not already cooked, prepare the shrimp and crab meat. Boil or steam the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. For crab meat, ensure it’s fully cooked and free of any shells.
- Chop Ingredients: Finely chop the celery, red bell pepper, and parsley. If using cherry tomatoes, halve them.
- Combine: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, crab meat, celery, red bell pepper, and parsley. Add the cherry tomatoes if using.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Add Dressing: Pour the chilled dressing over the seafood mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the salad to chill thoroughly.
4. Serve:
- Plate the Salad: Serve the seafood salad on a bed of lettuce or in a large serving bowl.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a slice of lemon for a fresh, vibrant presentation.
5. Enjoy:
- Serve Cold: This salad is best served cold. Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or appetizer.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Seafood Options: Feel free to substitute or add other types of seafood such as scallops, lobster, or calamari based on availability and preference.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick toss before serving.
- Texture: For added crunch, include finely chopped cucumbers or radishes.
Variations:
- Low-Carb Version: To make this salad low-carb, substitute the mayonnaise with a low-carb or keto-friendly mayo. You can also add more leafy greens to increase the volume without adding carbs.
- Keto Version: Ensure all ingredients, including the mayonnaise, are keto-friendly. Use full-fat mayo and avoid any added sugars.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of Volcano Paste or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives for a unique flavor twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen seafood for this salad?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and crab meat. Just make sure to thaw and cook them properly before adding them to the salad.
Q: How long can I store the seafood salad in the refrigerator?
A: The seafood salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s covered properly to maintain freshness.
Q: Can I add pasta to this salad?
A: Absolutely! Adding cooked pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini can turn this salad into a hearty meal.
Q: What can I serve with this seafood salad?
A: This salad pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a light green salad. It’s also great as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply use a dairy-free mayonnaise and ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.
This Seafood Salad with its creamy and tangy dressing is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With easy preparation steps, customizable ingredients, and options for keto and low-carb diets, this salad can be tailored to suit any preference. Serve it as a main dish, side, or appetizer, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors that make this salad a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!