There is something truly irresistible about this Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. Imagine a vibrant medley of succulent shrimp and delicate crab meat mingling with crisp celery, refreshing cucumber, and a zesty, creamy dressing that brings everything to life. Every bite bursts with bright, fresh flavors and textures—making it the perfect dish for a light lunch, a stunning appetizer, or even a potluck showstopper. I’m excited to share this recipe with you because it’s simple, quick, and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in balancing taste, texture, and color. From the tender seafood to the crunchy veggies and tangy dressing, every element contributes to a dreamy, refreshing salad.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined): Provides sweet, juicy seafood flavor and hearty texture.
- 1 cup crab meat (imitation or real): Adds delicate, flaky seafood richness to the mix.
- 1 cup celery (diced): Adds a crunchy, refreshing bite that lightens the salad.
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped): Brings a mild pungency and eye-catching color contrast.
- ½ cup cucumber (diced): Offers coolness and crispness to balance the creamy dressing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Injects bright acidity that elevates the overall flavor.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates a rich, creamy base for the dressing.
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy, lighter creaminess for a balanced dressing.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides subtle heat and depth to the dressing.
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped): Delivers fresh herbal fragrance and a vibrant green pop.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to make all flavors sing.
How to Make Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Start by making sure your shrimp are thawed and well-drained if they’re frozen. If your shrimp are on the larger side, cut them into bite-sized pieces so each forkful is perfectly balanced. When using imitation crab, break it apart into small, manageable chunks that blend well with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and diced cucumber. These vegetables add a fresh crunch and layer of texture, perfectly complementing the tender seafood. Their vibrant colors also make the salad look as good as it tastes.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
Whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice in a separate bowl until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. This dressing is where the magic happens—its creamy tang balances the seafood’s subtle sweetness and the veggies’ refreshing bite.
Step 4: Toss Together
Add the prepared shrimp and crab meat to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss until every bite is coated in the luscious, creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix, so the seafood maintains its lovely texture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle and deepen. When ready to serve, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and adjust seasoning if necessary to brighten the final dish.
How to Serve Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you can also adorn the salad with thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added color and a subtle smoky vibe. A few microgreens make a gorgeous, restaurant-worthy finish that your guests will remember.
Side Dishes
This seafood salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread, buttery crostini, or crisp green leaves for wraps. It also complements light white wines or a citrusy sparkling water to keep the meal feeling fresh and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad Recipe inside hollowed-out avocado halves or stacked on endive leaves for individual bites. You could also fill crisp cucumber boats or stuff into pita pockets for a playful finger food presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, and the flavors often become even more harmonious after some resting time.
Freezing
Because the salad involves mayonnaise and fresh veggies, freezing is not recommended, as the texture and flavor won’t hold up well. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days of making.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served chilled and does not require reheating. If you prefer it less cold, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute the seafood with other types?
Absolutely! You can swap shrimp and crab for cooked lobster, scallops, or cooked white fish. Just make sure the seafood is cooked and cooled before mixing for the best result.
Is it better to use real crab meat or imitation crab?
Both work well in this recipe. Real crab offers a richer flavor and firmer texture, while imitation crab is often more affordable and convenient. Choose based on your preference and budget.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace shrimp and crab with hearts of palm or artichoke hearts, and use vegan mayonnaise and yogurt substitutes. The flavor will be delicious and fresh, just with a different type of seafood-inspired texture.
How can I make the dressing lighter?
Using Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the mayonnaise keeps the dressing creamy but reduces fat and calories. Adding extra lemon juice can also boost freshness.
What is the best way to serve this salad for a party?
Serve the seafood salad in a large, beautiful bowl with plenty of crackers, crostini, or greens for scooping. Alternatively, plate it in individual servings on cucumber rounds or in small lettuce cups to impress your guests.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad Recipe enough—it’s the kind of dish that feels both special and effortless, perfect for brightening any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining friends or craving a light, satisfying meal, give this salad a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (mostly for chilling and any additional seafood preparation)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad combines tender shrimp, delicate crab meat, and crisp vegetables tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and fresh lemon juice. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing appetizer, this chilled salad highlights the natural taste of seafood balanced with crunchy celery, cucumber, and red onion for texture and brightness.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup crab meat (imitation or real, depending on preference)
Vegetables
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup cucumber (diced)
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Seafood: If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture. Cut larger shrimp into bite-sized pieces to ensure easy eating and better integration in the salad.
- Prepare the Crab Meat: If using imitation crab, break it into small, manageable pieces for even texture and ease of mixing.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and diced cucumber. These fresh, crunchy vegetables bring brightness and texture to the salad.
- Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing adds tang and moisture to the salad, balancing the seafood flavor.
- Toss Together: Add the prepared shrimp and crab meat to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over all ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated and evenly distributed.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the seafood salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Garnish and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt or pepper.
Notes
- For a lighter salad, use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Ensure shrimp and crab are thoroughly drained to avoid a watery salad.
- This salad is best served chilled and should be consumed within 2 days for freshness.
- Feel free to add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Gluten-free if using gluten-free mayonnaise and imitation crab.
