Name: Seafood Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked salad shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 pound cooked crab meat (lump or imitation crab), roughly chopped if needed; 1 stalk celery, finely chopped; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional but recommended); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges for squeezing

Jump to Recipe

Seafood Salad is the perfect answer when you need something quick, satisfying, and refreshing. This vibrant dish blends tender shrimp and flaky crab meat with crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, flavorful dressing. It’s light yet hearty, making it ideal for warm summer days or any time you want to serve something fresh and impressive.

When time is short and expectations are high, it’s a relief to have a recipe that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing. This salad delivers just that—no long prep, no complicated steps, just pure coastal flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting guests or just trying to make weeknight dinners easier, this seafood salad is a go-to you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Salad

This Seafood Salad is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s quick to prepare, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. The combination of flavors is simply divine, with the sweetness of shrimp and the richness of crab meat dancing together in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even as a filling for sandwiches. Who wouldn’t love that?

Fast and fresh: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
Deliciously balanced: Creamy, crisp, and full of ocean flavor.
Multi-purpose: Enjoy it as a salad, sandwich filler, or party side dish.

Ingredients for Seafood Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a fantastic Seafood Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked salad shrimp: These little gems are the star of the show, bringing a sweet and tender bite.
Cooked crab meat: Whether you choose lump or imitation crab, it adds a rich flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Celery: Finely chopped, it adds a satisfying crunch and a fresh taste to the mix.
Red onion: This adds a mild sweetness and a pop of color, making the salad visually appealing.
Red bell pepper: Chopped finely, it contributes a sweet, crisp texture and vibrant color.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base binds everything together, giving the salad its luscious texture.
Sour cream: It adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
Dijon mustard: Just a tablespoon adds a zesty kick that elevates the overall taste.
Fresh lemon juice: A splash of this brightens the salad, enhancing all the flavors.
Old Bay seasoning: This optional seasoning is a classic for seafood, adding a hint of spice and depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
Fresh dill or parsley: Chopped, these herbs add a fresh, aromatic finish to the salad.
Lemon wedges: For squeezing over the salad just before serving, they add a refreshing burst of flavor.

For those looking to lighten things up, you can swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt. Feel free to get creative! Adding ingredients like cucumber or avocado can introduce new flavors and textures. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Seafood Salad

Making this Seafood Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Combine the Seafood

Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine the cooked salad shrimp and crab meat. I like to use my hands to gently break up any large chunks of crab. This way, every bite is packed with flavor. The shrimp and crab should be mixed well, creating a beautiful base for your salad.

Step 2: Add Fresh Vegetables

Next, it’s time to add some crunch! Toss in the finely chopped celery, red onion, and red bell pepper. These veggies not only add texture but also a burst of color. I love how the sweetness of the bell pepper complements the seafood. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is what brings the salad to life! Make sure to mix it well until it’s smooth and all the ingredients are blended. The tanginess from the lemon juice and mustard will brighten up the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Now, pour the dressing over the seafood and vegetable mixture. Using a spatula, gently toss everything together. You want to coat the seafood and veggies without breaking them apart. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is deliciously creamy and flavorful!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Finally, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delightful. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh dill or parsley and add lemon wedges for that extra zing!

Tips for Success

Use fresh seafood for the best flavor; frozen works too, just thaw it properly.
Chill the salad longer if you can; it enhances the flavors even more.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; don’t be afraid to experiment!
For a crunchier texture, add the vegetables just before serving.
Make it ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge for a day or two.

You Must Know

Don’t skip the chilling time – it allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together beautifully.
This salad can be made ahead – prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled, making it perfect for entertaining or busy schedules.
Customize the creaminess – feel free to adjust the dressing amounts to match your personal preference.

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients. A salad bowl works great too!
Whisk: Perfect for mixing the dressing. A fork can do the job in a pinch.
Spatula: Ideal for gently folding the salad. A wooden spoon can also work well.
Plastic wrap: To cover the bowl while chilling. A lid or plate can be used instead.

Variations of Seafood Salad

Spicy Seafood Salad: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a kick that will wake up your taste buds!
Avocado Twist: Incorporate diced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats that complement the seafood beautifully.
Asian-Inspired: Swap the dressing for a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar, and add shredded carrots and edamame.
Herbed Delight: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist on the classic flavor.
Quinoa Addition: Mix in cooked quinoa for added protein and a heartier salad that’s perfect as a main dish.

Serving Suggestions for Seafood Salad

Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing meal.
Serve with crusty bread or buttery crackers for a delightful crunch.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Present in a beautiful bowl, garnished with extra herbs for a pop of color.
For a picnic, pack in lettuce wraps for a fun, portable option!

FAQs about Seafood Salad

As you embark on your culinary adventure with this Seafood Salad, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!

Can I use frozen seafood for this salad?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it properly before using. Frozen shrimp and crab can be just as delicious as fresh, especially when prepared well.

How long can I store leftover Seafood Salad?

You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just remember to cover it tightly to maintain freshness. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!

What can I serve with Seafood Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with a light green salad, crusty bread, or even as a filling in wraps. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Is this Seafood Salad suitable for a low-calorie diet?

Yes! With its fresh ingredients and lean protein, this Seafood Salad is a great option for those watching their calorie intake. You can also lighten it up further by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Seafood Salad is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny afternoon or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into this delightful recipe, and savor the happiness it brings to your dining experience!

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