Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share my Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad. This dish bursts with fresh flavors and nourishing ingredients. You’ll find shrimp, scallops, and crisp veggies all tossed in a zesty dressing. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or a fancy dinner, this salad is delicious, healthy, and easy to make. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore this savory seafood delight together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad
– 200g cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 200g cooked scallops
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves (for serving)
Gathering fresh ingredients is key. I love using wild-caught shrimp and scallops. They taste better and are better for the ocean. The cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness. The creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber balance the dish perfectly.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this salad has about 250 calories. It offers a great mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. You get around 20g of protein from the seafood. Healthy fats come from the avocado and olive oil. The carbs mainly come from the veggies.
Seafood provides many benefits. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart. Eating seafood can help improve your mood and brain health too. Plus, it’s low in calories but high in nutrients.
For the full recipe, check out Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad 🦐.
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Prepare Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad
– Step 1: Combine seafood
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add 200g of cooked shrimp and 200g of cooked scallops. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. This gives a nice base for your salad.
– Step 2: Add fresh vegetables
Next, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced avocado, and 1 cup of diced cucumber. Toss in 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion and 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro. This mix brings a bright and fresh taste.
– Step 3: Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is well combined. This will enhance the flavors of the salad.
– Step 4: Toss and let sit
Pour the dressing over the seafood and vegetable mix. Gently toss everything to coat it well. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite delicious.
Tips for Perfecting Each Step
– Ensuring seafood is thoroughly cooked
Always use fully cooked seafood for safety. If you use raw seafood, ensure it reaches the right internal temperature.
– Preparing fresh ingredients
Choose fresh vegetables for the best taste. Look for bright colors and firm textures. Fresh ingredients make the salad lively.
– Emulsifying the dressing
Whisk the dressing well to combine the oil and lemon juice. This creates a creamy texture that coats your salad nicely.
Enjoy the process of making Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad. Don’t forget to check the [Full Recipe] for more details!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing Fresh Seafood
When selecting shrimp and scallops, look for bright colors. Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy. Pick scallops that feel firm and look shiny. Check for the seasonality of seafood. This ensures better flavor and quality. In the summer, shrimp are often sweeter and more tender. In winter, scallops come into peak season. Knowing when seafood is at its best helps you make better choices.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, add spices or herbs. Fresh dill or parsley can brighten the dish. A hint of garlic can also add depth. You can try different dressings too. Instead of lemon juice and olive oil, use a yogurt-based dressing for creaminess. This can give a new twist to your salad. Experiment with flavors until you find your perfect mix.
Presentation Suggestions
How you serve your seafood salad matters. Use a large bowl to show off the colors. You can also use individual plates for a fancy touch. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra cilantro leaves. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve on a bed of lettuce for a nice crunch. These simple tips make your seafood salad look as good as it tastes.
Variations
Types of Seafood Salads
You can create many types of seafood salads. Shrimp salad is a favorite. You can mix shrimp with creamy dressing or keep it light with lemon juice. Add herbs like dill or parsley for fresh flavor.
Crab salad is another great option. You can use fresh crab meat or canned. Mix it with mayo and add a touch of mustard for zest. Pair it with celery for crunch. You can even make a crab salad with avocado for a creamy twist.
Ingredient Swaps
If you want a vegan option, try using chickpeas or tofu instead of seafood. Both provide protein and a nice texture. You can add smoked paprika to give it a seafood-like flavor.
For vegetables, you can swap in bell peppers or radishes. They add a nice crunch and color. Broccoli florets or green beans also work well for a healthy boost. Use what you have on hand to make it your own.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, you can try a tropical seafood salad. Add mango or pineapple for sweetness. It pairs well with shrimp or scallops. Serve it chilled on hot days.
In winter, a warm seafood salad works best. Use cooked seafood and mix it with roasted root veggies. You can add a warm vinaigrette for comfort. These choices keep your meals exciting all year round.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your seafood salad fresh, place it in the fridge right away. Use an airtight container to seal in flavor and moisture. This helps prevent any strong smells from spreading. I find glass containers work best. They are easy to clean and don’t absorb odors.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze seafood salad, but it can change texture. The seafood may become mushy upon thawing. To maintain texture and flavor, freeze it without the dressing. Prepare the dressing fresh when ready to serve. This keeps the salad tasting great.
Shelf Life
Seafood salad lasts about three days in the fridge. Keep an eye on it. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or a slimy texture. If you notice these signs, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses!
FAQs
What seafood is best for a salad?
For a tasty seafood salad, shrimp and scallops are top picks. They offer sweet, mild flavors. You can also use crab, lobster, or even smoked salmon. Each type brings a unique taste and texture.
Can I make seafood salad in advance?
Yes, you can prep seafood salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until serving. This keeps the veggies crisp and fresh. You can store the salad in the fridge for about two days.
Is seafood salad healthy?
Seafood salad is very healthy. It is low in calories and high in protein. The shrimp and scallops provide essential nutrients. Plus, the fresh veggies add fiber and vitamins. This dish supports a balanced diet.
Full Recipe
You can find the complete recipe for Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad in the earlier section.
Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad offers a blend of fresh flavors and healthy ingredients. With cooked shrimp, scallops, and vibrant veggies, this salad is both tasty and nutritious. You can make it your own by swapping ingredients or adding spices.
Remember to store leftovers properly for best taste. Enjoy your summer with this light and refreshing dish! Try different variations to keep things exciting. Enjoy every bite of your Ocean Breeze Seafood Salad!