Seafood Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing is a refreshing, vibrant, and protein-rich dish that brings the flavors of the ocean together with crisp vegetables and a bright, aromatic dressing. This salad blends shrimp, calamari, and crab with fresh herbs and crunchy greens, all coated in a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette that enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood.

Light yet satisfying, it’s perfect for warm-weather meals, elegant lunches, or dinner appetizers. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply seeking a wholesome, restaurant-quality dish at home, this salad delivers freshness, flavor, and nourishment in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it highlights the natural flavors of seafood without overwhelming them. The clean, citrusy dressing pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp and calamari, while the crisp veggies add refreshing texture.

It’s a dish that feels luxurious but requires minimal preparation. The combination of colors, flavors, and textures makes it exciting to eat, and it’s one of those meals that leaves you feeling energized and light. It’s also versatile—you can mix and match seafood based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable for any kitchen.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it offers a healthy, protein-packed meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to make. The lemon garlic dressing elevates the seafood with a burst of fresh acidity, while the crisp vegetables add balance and crunch.

It’s perfect for meal prep, dinner parties, or a light weekday meal. Additionally, it’s gluten-free, customizable, and easy to adjust to your taste preferences. For anyone wanting a fresh and vibrant seafood option that doesn’t require heavy cooking, this recipe is a standout choice.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, Calories, Course, Cuisine

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 280–320 calories per serving
Course: Salad / Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Seafood Salad

• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup calamari rings
• 1 cup crab meat (fresh or imitation)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped dill
• 3 cups mixed greens or romaine (optional)

For the Lemon Garlic Dressing

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the shrimp and calamari briefly until just done.
2. Combine cooked seafood with vegetables, herbs, and crab in a large bowl.
3. Whisk together dressing ingredients.
4. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
5. Serve immediately or chilled for 10 minutes.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink; remove and cool.
2. In the same pot, add calamari rings and cook for 1–2 minutes until tender; avoid overcooking.
3. Drain and place cooked seafood in a bowl to cool completely.
4. Dice cucumber, slice onion, chop bell pepper, and halve tomatoes.
5. Add all chopped vegetables to the cooled seafood.
6. Add fresh parsley and dill.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Pour dressing over the seafood mixture.
10. Toss gently to avoid breaking the seafood pieces.
11. Serve over a bed of greens or mixed into the salad.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the salad chilled for maximum freshness. It pairs well with:

• Chilled white wine
• Toasted garlic bread or crostini
• A side of quinoa, couscous, or brown rice
• Individual lettuce cups for an appetizer-style presentation

For an elegant dinner, plate the salad on a bed of greens and drizzle extra dressing on top.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook the seafood to avoid rubbery texture.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Chill the seafood before mixing for a crisp, refreshing salad.
• Add avocado for creaminess and richness.
• If using imitation crab, flake it gently for the best texture.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or minced chili to the dressing.
• Italian Style: Add olives, capers, and basil.
• Asian-Inspired: Replace lemon juice with rice vinegar and add sesame oil.
• Tropical Twist: Add mango, pineapple, or papaya.
• Low-Carb: Skip tomatoes and serve over leafy greens only.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Do not freeze this salad; seafood becomes tough after thawing and vegetables lose texture.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
• For best freshness, store dressing and seafood separately and combine just before serving.
• Avoid storing with greens; add them fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Small pot for cooking seafood
• Strainer

FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked seafood?
Yes, it works well and saves time—just ensure it’s fresh and properly chilled.

Can I make the dressing in advance?
Absolutely; it keeps well for 3 days in the fridge.

Can I substitute the seafood?
Yes, scallops, mussels, or white fish are great alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?
It already is as written.

Why did my calamari turn rubbery?
It was overcooked; calamari cooks very quickly.

Conclusion

Seafood Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing is a refreshing, wholesome, and flavorful dish that showcases the natural beauty of tender seafood combined with vibrant vegetables and a bright citrus dressing. It’s easy enough for everyday meals yet impressive enough for gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or elegant dinner, this salad offers a delicious balance of protein, freshness, and tangy zest. If you’d like more seafood salad ideas or healthy meal inspirations, feel free to ask anytime!