Summer has finally arrived, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up your grill, crack open a cold glass of white wine, and indulge in some refreshing seafood salads. Whether you’re a beach-goer or just looking for a light and easy meal after a long day, these 18 seafood salad recipes are sure to hit the spot.
From classic combinations like shrimp and avocado to more adventurous pairings like spicy crab and mango, there’s something on this list for every taste bud. And with ingredients like fresh citrus, crunchy quinoa, and savory octopus making appearances, you’ll be treated to a flavor explosion that’s sure to keep you coming back for more.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering recipes, sharing tips and tricks for preparation and presentation. So grab your sunglasses, don your sunscreen, and get ready to savor the taste of summer with these refreshing seafood salads!
Classic Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, crunchy red onion, and tangy lime juice, making it a perfect light meal or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
2. Add the shrimp and toss to coat; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, and chopped cilantro (if using).
4. Add the coated shrimp to the bowl and gently fold to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation only)
Spicy Crab and Mango Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of crab, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo or claw)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced mango, crab meat, mayonnaise, and sriracha sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place 6-8 lettuce leaves on a serving plate or individual plates.
5. Spoon the spicy crab and mango mixture over the lettuce.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a salad.
Lobster and Corn Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines succulent lobster meat with sweet corn, crunchy bell peppers, and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lobster meat, corn kernels, and bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the lobster mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as all ingredients are ready-made or raw.
Mediterranean Octopus Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Mediterranean Octopus Salad combines the tender sweetness of grilled octopus with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and patted dry octopus tentacles
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush octopus with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
4. Chop grilled octopus into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped parsley, mint, lemon juice, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Add grilled octopus to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai-Inspired Squid Salad
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this refreshing squid salad, perfect for a light and delicious meal or as a side dish. Succulent squid rings are tossed with crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and cut squid tubes into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and basil)
– 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate squid pieces in fish sauce, lime juice, and honey for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook marinated squid in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until opaque and tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and chopped cilantro.
4. Add cooked squid to the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Scallop and Citrus Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled scallops with the tanginess of citrus fruits, all on a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a light and flavorful summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, orange and grapefruit segments.
4. Drizzle olive oil and orange juice over the salad; toss to combine.
5. Slice grilled scallops into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Arugula Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the peppery bite of arugula, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and red onion.
2. Flake the smoked salmon over the salad and sprinkle with goat cheese if using.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Poke Salad Bowl
A refreshing and protein-packed salad bowl featuring tender tuna, crunchy veggies, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine flaked tuna, mixed greens, cucumber, red bell pepper, carrots, and green onions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Quinoa Salad
This hearty salad combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the nutty goodness of quinoa, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its spicy kick and tangy dressing, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shrimp mixture, bell peppers, and cilantro.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Tuna and Sesame Salad
A simple yet elegant salad that combines the freshness of sesame oil with the richness of seared tuna. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 sushi-grade tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
4. Combine the mixed greens and toasted sesame seeds in a large bowl.
5. Slice the seared tuna into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
6. Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Spinach Salad
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter shrimp with the earthy freshness of spinach, creating a delightful salad perfect for any occasion. With its simplicity and flavor, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and lemon juice. Toss to coat.
5. Arrange cooked shrimp on top of the spinach mixture.
6. Drizzle garlic butter sauce over the shrimp and spinach.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Seafood Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with succulent seafood, noodles, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, scallops, and mussels (or substitute with your favorite seafood)
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked seafood, cucumber, carrots, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey; pour over seafood mixture.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Herbed Mussel and Tomato Salad
This refreshing salad combines the brininess of mussels with the sweetness of tomatoes and a hint of fresh herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water, then steam them until they open, about 3-5 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked mussels, diced tomatoes, parsley, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ceviche-Style White Fish Salad
Rejuvenate your senses with this refreshing and flavorful salad, perfect for a light and healthy meal. This Ceviche-style White Fish Salad is a twist on the classic Latin American dish, using white fish and a zesty citrus marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces, lime juice, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Just before serving, stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately on a bed of mixed greens or atop toasted tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (marinating time included)
Prawn and Grapefruit Salad
Brighten up your day with this refreshing prawn and grapefruit salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of succulent prawns, tangy grapefruit, and crunchy avocado is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine prawns and grapefruit segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and grapefruit juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the prawn mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Stir in diced avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Coconut Lime Shrimp Salad
Brighten up your day with this refreshing Coconut Lime Shrimp Salad! Succulent shrimp are tossed with crunchy veggies, tangy lime juice, and a hint of coconut to create a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled shrimp, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
5. Sprinkle with shredded coconut and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Calamari and Chickpea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tender sweetness of grilled calamari with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a zesty lemon-tahini dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid tubes (calamari)
– 2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse calamari under cold water, pat dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, tahini, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Add cooked chickpeas to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
5. Slice grilled calamari into bite-sized pieces. Add to the salad and toss gently.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grill time)
Zesty Lemon Garlic Scallop Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines succulent scallops with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with lemon-garlic mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the scallops and roast in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until opaque and cooked through.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and cherry tomatoes.
7. Slice roasted scallops and place on top of the salad.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing seafood salad recipes perfect for summer. From classic shrimp and avocado to spicy crab and mango, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some Mediterranean flair with octopus and olives or go tropical with grilled scallop and citrus. For a lighter option, opt for a tuna poke bowl or seared tuna and sesame salad. Whatever your taste, these 18 recipes are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings and keep you cool all summer long.
Leave a Reply