How to Cook Italian-Style Marinated Seafood Salad
If you're looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious and vibrant dish, Italian-style marinated seafood salad is a fantastic choice. This dish highlights the fresh flavors of seafood and the classic taste of Mediterranean ingredients. Follow this guide to create a mouthwatering Italian-style marinated seafood salad that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound calamari, cleaned and sliced
- 1 pound mussels, cleaned
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Seafood
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove them from the pot and place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. In the same pot, add the calamari and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender. Lastly, add the mussels and steam them until they open, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Discard any mussels that do not open.
2. Make the Marinade
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This marinade will enhance the flavors of your seafood and add that classic Italian touch.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood: shrimp, calamari, and mussels. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. Pour the marinade over the seafood mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated.
4. Marinate the Salad
Cover the bowl and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together. For optimal taste, consider marinating for several hours or even overnight.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once marinated, give the seafood salad a gentle toss before serving. It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. You can also serve it on a bed of mixed greens or with crusty Italian bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Italian-Style Marinated Seafood Salad
- Choose fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like olives or capers for an extra punch.
- If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
This Italian-style marinated seafood salad is not only refreshing but also packed with protein and healthy fats. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a light dinner, this dish is versatile and can be made in advance. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean right in your home!