If you have ever craved a vibrant, refreshing, and utterly satisfying dish that brings the ocean’s bounty right to your plate, then you are in for a treat with The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe. This salad is a delightful combination of tender shrimp, flaky imitation crab, crisp celery, and zesty lemon, all bound together with a creamy, herby dressing that feels both indulgent and light. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or even as an impressive appetizer when guests arrive. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorite seafood dishes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe. These simple yet essential components work in harmony to provide a balance of flavors, textures, and fresh color that makes this salad stand out.
- 8 ounces imitation crab meat: Offers sweet, flaky seafood flavor that’s convenient without sacrificing taste.
- 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Brings tender bite and fresh ocean taste, essential for seafood salad.
- 1 lemon, quartered: Used to cook and season shrimp, plus adds bright citrus notes.
- ½ cup celery, finely diced: Adds a crisp texture and refreshing crunch to balance the creamy dressing.
- 3 tablespoons red onion, minced: Provides subtle sharpness and a pop of color to enliven the salad.
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood seasoning that injects bold flavor and seasoning depth.
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice: Brings extra brightness and acidity to lift the entire dish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors while seasoning perfectly.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the rich, creamy base that holds the salad together beautifully.
- 1½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish): Introduces fresh herbaceous notes that elevate the seafood perfectly.
How to Make The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe
Step 1: Poach and Prep the Shrimp
Begin by bringing a pot of water to a gentle simmer with the quartered lemon inside. Add the raw shrimp and poach just until they turn pink and opaque—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them cool. This method infuses the shrimp with a subtle citrus flavor and ensures they stay tender and juicy, which is the foundation for that coveted fresh seafood taste.
Step 2: Combine the Seafood and Veggies
In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the peeled shrimp and flaked imitation crab meat. Next, add the finely diced celery and minced red onion; these crunchy vegetables bring a satisfying texture contrast and freshness that soothes the palate. The Old Bay seasoning comes next, scattering that unmistakable blend of herbs and spices that screams seafood delight.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing and Toss
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this luscious dressing over the seafood mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Finally, fold in the chopped fresh dill, which adds that special herbal brightness that pulls the whole salad together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. That’s it! The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill on top adds vibrant color and aroma, making your salad look as good as it tastes. Thin lemon slices or wedges on the side invite guests to add a squeeze of extra citrus if they wish, brightening every bite even more.
Side Dishes
This seafood salad pairs marvelously with fresh crusty bread, buttery crostini, or simple crackers for scooping. For something heartier, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables—the combination creates a balanced, crowd-pleasing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow your guests? Serve the salad in individual lettuce cups, hollowed-out avocados, or even atop fresh cucumber slices for bite-sized snacks. Presenting it in clear glasses layered with colorful ingredients also elevates the dish for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually meld and deepen after a few hours, so if you can resist, letting it rest will improve the taste even more.
Freezing
Seafood salad with mayonnaise and fresh ingredients does not freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh. Freezing can alter the texture of the seafood and cause separation in the dressing, diminishing its beloved flavor and consistency.
Reheating
Because this salad is meant to be served cold, reheating is not recommended. If you want to enjoy leftovers, simply bring them to room temperature or serve straight from the fridge for an equally delightful experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crab meat?
Absolutely! Fresh crab meat will elevate the salad even more with its natural sweetness and delicate texture. Just be sure to pick through carefully to avoid any shell fragments.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and a small amount of mayo for creaminess with fewer calories and extra protein.
Can I add other types of seafood?
Yes! Cooked scallops, crab claws, or chunks of cooked white fish can be mixed in to personalize your salad and make it even more indulgent.
How long does it take to prepare The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe?
With just about 15 minutes of prep time and no actual cooking aside from poaching shrimp, this recipe is quick and perfect for busy days or last-minute entertaining.
What is the best way to serve this salad at a party?
Try serving it in small, individual portions like mini cups or cucumber boats—this not only looks impressive but also makes it easy for guests to enjoy without any mess.
Final Thoughts
There is truly something magical about The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe that keeps me coming back for more—and I hope it will for you too. It’s simple, fresh, and bursting with bright flavors that feel like a celebration of the sea in every bite. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, this salad promises to delight and satisfy in the best way possible. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love!
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The BEST Seafood Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This refreshing and easy-to-make seafood salad combines tender shrimp, flavorful imitation crab, and fresh vegetables tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing seasoned with Old Bay and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or a delightful appetizer, this salad offers a delicious taste of the sea with every bite.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 8 ounces imitation crab meat, flaked or sliced
- 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Flavorings
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons red onion, minced
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the quartered lemon for extra flavor. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are pink and opaque. Drain and let them cool completely.
- Prepare the seafood and vegetables: Flake or slice the imitation crab meat into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the celery and mince the red onion. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, imitation crab, celery, and red onion.
- Mix the dressing and combine: In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the seafood and vegetables and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Garnish with extra dill before serving.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooled before mixing to prevent the mayonnaise from melting.
- For more zest, add a bit of lemon zest to the dressing.
- You can substitute the imitation crab with real crab meat for a richer flavor.
- Serve chilled for the best taste and freshness.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
