How to Make the Perfect Italian Seafood Salad

Italian seafood salad, known as "Insalata di Mare," is a refreshing and flavorful dish that captures the essence of coastal Italian cuisine. It combines a variety of seafood with a zesty dressing, making it a perfect starter or a light main course. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect Italian seafood salad.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, and scallops)
  • 1 cup cooked and cooled octopus, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 lemons (juiced)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: arugula or mixed greens for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Seafood: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp, squid, and scallops. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and the squid is tender. Remove from heat and drain the seafood. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.
  2. Cook the Octopus: If you're using fresh octopus, it needs to be tenderized before cooking. Simmer it in salted water for about 45-60 minutes until tender. Allow it to cool, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood, chopped octopus, cherry tomatoes, diced celery, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. Stir gently to mix.
  4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the seafood salad, tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Let It Marinate: For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Optionally, serve the salad on a bed of arugula or mixed greens for added freshness. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Seafood Salad

  • Fresh Seafood: Always use the freshest seafood available for the best taste and texture. If you can, buy from a reputable fish market.
  • Customize: Feel free to customize your salad by adding other ingredients like black olives, capers, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
  • Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary—fresh herbs and quality olive oil make a big difference!

Now you have all the steps to create a delicious Italian seafood salad that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy this dish as a perfect appetizer or a light meal during warm weather!