Fresh & Protein-Packed Seafood Salad

This fresh and flavourful seafood salad is light, refreshing, and loaded with lean protein. Juicy shrimp, tender crab, scallops, and calamari are tossed with crisp greens, crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and a zesty homemade lemon dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or warm-weather gatherings, this salad delivers restaurant-quality flavour while staying healthy and satisfying.

The combination of seafood and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal packed with nutrients, vibrant textures, and bright citrus flavour. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option, a quick healthy meal, or an elegant salad for entertaining, this seafood salad is a delicious choice.

Ingredients

Seafood

6 oz cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 oz cooked crab meat (or imitation crab)
4 oz cooked scallops, chilled
4 oz cooked calamari rings (optional)

Vegetables & Greens

4 cups mixed greens (spinach, rocket, romaine)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 avocado, diced
1/4 cup shredded carrots

Dressing

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare all seafood and ensure it is fully chilled before assembling the salad.
Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly.
In a large salad bowl, combine greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, and carrots.
Add shrimp, crab meat, scallops, and calamari on top of the vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently and serve immediately.

Description

This seafood salad is bright, crisp, and wonderfully satisfying without feeling heavy. The seafood provides a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon dressing and fresh vegetables. Creamy avocado balances the acidity, while mixed greens add freshness and texture.

It’s an excellent dish for meal prep, healthy eating plans, summer lunches, or elegant dinners. Every bite is refreshing, protein-rich, and packed with flavour.

Tips

Use fresh seafood whenever possible for the best flavour.
Pat seafood dry before adding to avoid excess moisture.
Chill ingredients before assembling for a refreshing salad.
Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra brightness.
Serve with crusty bread or crackers if desired.

Servings

Serves 4 people.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 260
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Omega-3s: Moderate

Health Benefits

High Protein: Seafood supports muscle repair and fullness.
Heart-Healthy: Seafood and olive oil provide healthy fats.
Low-Carb Friendly: Great option for balanced or low-carb meals.
Rich in Vitamins: Vegetables add antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C.
Nutrient-Dense: Seafood contains minerals like zinc, selenium, and iodine.

Recipe Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day without dressing. For extra flavour, marinate the seafood lightly in lemon juice and herbs before assembling.

Q&A

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before using.

What can replace calamari?

Extra shrimp or crab meat works perfectly.

Is imitation crab okay to use?

Absolutely. It’s affordable and still delicious in this salad.

Can I make it dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes. The recipe is naturally dairy-free and can easily be gluten-free depending on the seafood used.

What dressing variations work well?

A light vinaigrette, garlic-herb dressing, or creamy yoghurt dressing pairs wonderfully with this salad.