Name: Refreshing Seafood Salad with Zesty Citrus Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Octopus (Can be substituted with pre-cooked octopus or omitted for a simpler salad.); 1 pound Squid Tubes (You can use fresh or frozen squid.); 1 pound Tiger Shrimp (Make sure to peel and devein for a cleaner dish.); 1 cup Tangerine (Halved and juiced; can be swapped with other citrus like orange.); 1 unit Lemon (Halved.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 tablespoons Honey Dijon Mustard; 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (Can be replaced with basil or cilantro if desired.); 1 rib Celery (Adds crunch and freshness.); 1 leaf Bay Leaf (Infuses depth into the cooking water.); 1 tablespoon Peppercorns (Adds subtle heat.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.); 1 unit Wine Cork (Optional.)

The sun was shining, and a light sea breeze carried hints of citrus and salinity that whisked me back to my Italian summer holidays. There’s something magical about preparing an Italian Seafood Salad, or Insalata di Mare, that captures the essence of the ocean and sunshine in every bite. This seafood salad brings together tender octopus, sweet shrimp, and succulent squid, all coated in a vibrant fresh citrus dressing that rejuvenates the palate. Not only is it a quick and easy dish that can elevate any summer gathering, but it’s also a delightful way to enjoy a taste of Italy right at home. Perfect as a light appetizer or a dazzling main course, this seafood salad offers versatility in its ingredients, allowing you to swap in your favorite seafood based on availability. Are you ready to impress your guests with this refreshing Italian classic?

Why is Seafood Salad a Summer Essential?

Quick to Make: This seafood salad is ready in no time, letting you whip up a delightful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet citrus dressing with tender seafood delivers a taste of the ocean on your plate—perfect for warm days!

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s fresh or your personal favorites; whether it’s scallops or crab, you’ll find endless possibilities.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at summer gatherings, and watch it disappear—everyone loves this refreshing dish! You can pair it with a Christmas Salad Festive for an impressive spread.

Light & Healthy: With each serving clocking in at about 282 calories and packed with protein, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence for any seafood lover.

Seafood Salad Ingredients

For the Seafood Base

Octopus – Provides a tender and unique seafood flavor. Note: Can be substituted with pre-cooked octopus or omitted for a simpler salad.
Squid Tubes – Brings texture and ocean flavor. Note: You can use fresh or frozen squid.
Tiger Shrimp – Offers sweetness and a firm bite; make sure to peel and devein for a cleaner dish.

For the Dressing

Tangerine (halved and juiced) – Provides sweetness to the dressing; can be swapped with other citrus like orange.
Lemon (halved) – Adds zest and acidity, enhancing the seafood salad flavors.
Garlic Cloves (minced) – Infuses aromatic depth into the dressing.
Honey Dijon Mustard – Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to balance the citrus.
Chopped Parsley – Fresh herb finish; can be replaced with basil or cilantro if desired.

For Flavor

Celery Rib – Adds crunch and freshness to your seafood salad.
Bay Leaf – Infuses depth into the cooking water when poaching the seafood.
Peppercorns – Adds subtle heat to the poaching liquid.
Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
Wine Cork (optional) – Rumored to help tenderize the octopus during cooking.

This Seafood Salad brings the freshness of the ocean to your table, and with the perfect touch of zesty citrus love, it’s bound to be a hit at any summer gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Seafood Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Octopus
Begin by rinsing the octopus under cool running water to ensure it’s clean. In a large pot, combine water, a chopped celery rib, halved lemon, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, gently add the octopus and a cork (if using) before reducing the heat to a simmer. Cook for 40-45 minutes until the octopus is tender and plump, then remove it from the pot to cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp and Squid
In the same pot with the seasoned water, bring it back to a boil, adding the halved lemon and tangerine for added flavor. Next, drop in the squid rings and tentacles, poaching them for about 2 minutes until they turn opaque. Then, add the peeled and deveined tiger shrimp to the pot, cooking for another 2 minutes until they’re bright pink and firm. Drain everything and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, the freshly squeezed tangerine juice, the juice of the halved lemon, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add a spoonful of honey Dijon mustard and salt to taste, blending until the dressing is creamy and well combined. Finally, stir in a handful of chopped parsley to add a fresh burst of flavor to your Seafood Salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled octopus, shrimp, and squid. Pour the vibrant dressing over the seafood, and gently toss everything together with care to avoid breaking the tender seafood pieces. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or extra dressing to ensure a perfect balance of flavors in your refreshing Seafood Salad.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once combined, let the Seafood Salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it cold or at room temperature, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a crisp mixed green salad for a delightful summer meal that celebrates the ocean’s bounty!

What to Serve with Italian Seafood Salad

There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing flavors and bright colors of an Italian seafood dish to set the tone for any gathering.

Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delightful citrus dressing, this bread adds a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.
Mixed Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette enhances the seafood’s freshness while adding a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers add depth and a heartiness that beautifully balances the dish’s lighter elements.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Vermentino elevates the meal, complementing the flavors of the seafood dressing.
Antipasto Platter: Create a colorful spread with olives, cheeses, and cured meats to provide a variety of textures and flavors for guests to enjoy between bites of salad.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate and ties back to the vibrant citrus notes in the seafood salad, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Seafood Salad and its vibrant flavors are perfect for busy home cooks looking to meal prep! You can prepare the seafood components—octopus, shrimp, and squid—up to 24 hours in advance by poaching them, cooling thoroughly, and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their tender texture. The zesty citrus dressing can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just keep it in a separate container to prevent the seafood from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the chilled seafood with the dressing and gently toss to ensure everything is coated evenly. This make-ahead option not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring you enjoy a restaurant-quality Seafood Salad with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Seafood Salad

Seafood Freshness: Always choose the freshest seafood available. Fresh ingredients are key to achieving the vibrant flavors that make your seafood salad memorable.
Thawing Frozen Seafood: If using frozen seafood, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Quick thawing in water ensures even cooking and preserves texture.
Dressing Balance: Taste your dressing before serving. Adjust acidity and salt to your preference, ensuring the perfect balance enhances the seafood salad’s appeal.
Cooking Octopus: When boiling the octopus, avoid overcooking to prevent tough texture. Tender is the goal; it should melt in your mouth!
Mixing Gently: Be gentle when tossing the seafood with the dressing. This helps maintain the delicate textures of the shrimp and squid, making for a visually appealing dish.

How to Store and Freeze Seafood Salad

Fridge: Store your seafood salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents any odors from affecting the dish.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the seafood salad up to 12 hours in advance. Just keep it chilled in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to the seafood’s texture, if necessary, you can freeze seafood salad for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using; however, note that texture may alter.

Reheating: It’s best to serve your seafood salad cold or at room temperature. If you must reheat leftovers, gently warm them on low heat to avoid toughening the seafood.

Seafood Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this seafood salad your own with these exciting twists and swaps that cater to different tastes and dietary needs!

Scallops Instead: Swap octopus for scallops for a sweeter, more delicate flavor. They add a luxurious touch to the dish while maintaining that lovely seafood essence.
Crab Delight: Use lump crab meat instead of shrimp for a sweet and delicate texture. It’s a treat that feels indulgent yet remains light and fresh.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate bell peppers or diced cucumbers for added crunch and color. These extra veggies make the salad even more refreshing, perfect for summer picnics.
Citrus Swap: Replace tangerine juice with lime juice for a zesty kick. This offers a chicer twist and compliments the seafood beautifully, bringing an extra layer of brightness.
Herb Variations: Try swapping chopped parsley for fresh basil or cilantro, adding a slightly different flavor profile. Either option introduces a delightful freshness that can completely change the dish!
Additions for Heat: Include sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick. The heat balances wonderfully with the cool, creamy dressing.
Lean & Green: For a lighter version, skip the seafood altogether and create a vibrant salad with assorted greens, avocado, and citrus dressing for a refreshing vegan alternative. You can enjoy it alongside a Healthy Chicken Salad for a complete meal.
Flavorful Dressing: Experiment with flavored olive oils, like rosemary or lemon-infused, to elevate the dressing. This small change can add depth and a unique twist.

Every variation brings its charm to the table, so why not try a combination of these ideas? Each bite will tell a different flavorful story, making your Italian seafood salad a versatile delight for any occasion!

Italian Seafood Salad with Fresh Citrus Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right seafood for the salad?
Absolutely! When selecting seafood, freshness is key. If you’re shopping at a fish market, look for seafood with a pleasant ocean scent and firm textures. For shrimp, ensure they are bright pink and have a good snap. Opt for octopus that is moist and shiny; you can also ask your fishmonger for pre-cooked options to save time.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your seafood salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This protects against strong odors and keeps the flavors intact. It’s a great way to enjoy your salad for lunch the next day!

Can I freeze seafood salad?
While freezing is not ideal because it affects the seafood’s texture, you can freeze seafood salad for up to 1 month if necessary. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. To thaw, move the container to the fridge and let it sit overnight. However, it’s best served cold or at room temperature.

What should I do if my octopus turns out tough?
If your octopus ends up tough, it may be due to overcooking or not cooking long enough. To remedy this, you can simmer the octopus in a pot of water with a splash of vinegar for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat. This can help break down the proteins and tenderize the meat. Always let it cool before chopping for the salad.

Is this seafood salad suitable for those with allergies?
When preparing seafood salad, consider any seafood allergies that your guests might have, as shellfish can be a common allergen. For a gluten-free option, be sure to check your mustard and any additional sauces used. If you need to cater to allergies, vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or even avocado can make delicious additions without the seafood!

How can I enhance the flavor of the dressing?
To elevate your dressing, consider adding a splash of white wine vinegar or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Additionally, experimenting with fresh herbs like dill or basil can add an aromatic touch that will complement the seafood beautifully!