Name: Vibrant Seafood Salad with Zesty Citrus Dressing Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs octopus (pre-cleaned); 8 tiger shrimp peeled and deveined; 1 celery rib quartered; 1 lemon halved; 1 teaspoon peppercorns; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 wine cork optional; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 tangerines juiced; 1 lemon juiced; 3 garlic cloves minced; 2 teaspoons honey Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup parsley (chopped); 1 pinch salt (to taste)

As the sun begins to set over the coast, the gentle waves transport fragrant hints of citrus and ocean breeze to my kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my Tender Italian Seafood Salad with Citrus Dressing, a dish that effortlessly brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Perfect as an appetizer for summer gatherings or as a light, refreshing side dish, this Seafood Salad features tender octopus, succulent shrimp, and delicate squid, all enlivened by a zesty tangerine and lemon dressing. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also makes a splendid centerpiece for any festive occasion, especially during the beloved Feast of the Seven Fishes. Curious how this seafood delight comes together? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Seafood Salad a must-try?

Freshness at Its Best: The combination of freshly caught seafood brings the ocean’s taste to your plate.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is quick to assemble, allowing you to enjoy impressive flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering, or as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats.
Bright, Zesty Dressing: The citrus dressing, made with tangerines and lemons, perfectly balances the savory seafood elements.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Ideal for festive occasions like the Feast of the Seven Fishes， this is a dish that everyone will enjoy! If you’re looking for more fresh options, try out our Roll Cucumber Salad or Protein Egg Salad.

Seafood Salad Ingredients

• Dive into the ocean of flavor with this delightful seafood salad!

For the Seafood

1.5 lbs octopus – The star of the show; choose pre-cleaned to save time in preparation.
4 squid tubes (400 grams) – Offers a tender and chewy texture; feel free to mix it up with your favorite seafood!
8 tiger shrimp (peeled and deveined) – These sweet gems add a burst of flavor and texture to your salad.

For the Broth

1 celery rib (quartered) – Enhances the broth with aromatic flavor for your seafood.
1 lemon (halved) – Imparts bright flavors during cooking and is a key player in your dressing.
1 bay leaf – Introduces a lovely aroma to the cooking broth.
1 teaspoon peppercorns – Mildly spicy, adds depth to the seafood cooking process.
2 teaspoons salt – A necessity for seasoning the seafood and the salad dressing.
1 wine cork (optional) – A little secret to ensure the octopus is ultra-tender.

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil – Provides richness to the dressing, harmonizing with the seafood.
3 tangerines (juiced) – Bright and sweet, this juice elevates the dressings’ flavor profile.
1 lemon (juiced) – Balances sweetness with its signature tang.
3 garlic cloves (minced) – Brings depth and flavor complexity to the dressing.
2 teaspoons honey Dijon mustard – Offers a deliciously tangy sweetness to the dressing.
1/4 cup parsley (chopped) – Freshens up the dish both in flavor and presentation.
1 pinch salt (to taste) – Make those final adjustments to ensure all flavors sing!

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable Seafood Salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tender Italian Seafood Salad with Citrus Dressing

Step 1: Prepare Octopus
Start by rinsing the 1.5 lbs of octopus thoroughly under cold water. In a large pot, combine the octopus with 1 celery rib (quartered), 1 halved lemon, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of peppercorns, 2 teaspoons of salt, and optional wine cork. Cover with water and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cooking for about 40-45 minutes until the octopus is fork-tender.

Step 2: Cook Squid & Shrimp
While the octopus is cooking, bring another pot of water to a boil over medium heat. Add 4 squid tubes and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring they turn opaque and tender. Next, add 8 peeled and deveined tiger shrimp to the pot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until they change to a bright pink color. Drain and set aside the seafood.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice of 3 tangerines, and 1 lemon. Incorporate 3 minced garlic cloves and 2 teaspoons of honey Dijon mustard, mixing until well combined. Add 1/4 cup of chopped parsley and a pinch of salt to taste. This zesty dressing will bring brightness and flavor to your Seafood Salad.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked octopus, squid, and shrimp. Drizzle the fresh citrus dressing over the seafood mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Make sure everything is well integrated, enhancing the flavors of your Tender Italian Seafood Salad.

Step 5: Serve
Let the seafood salad rest for a few minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. For optimal taste, consider refrigerating it for up to 12 hours before serving. This delicious Seafood Salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, perfect for any gathering or festive occasion.

Seafood Salad Customizations

Feel free to get creative with this refreshing Seafood Salad and make it your own!

Seafood Swap: Try using scallops or lump crab instead of octopus for a different twist. Both will add unique textures and flavors to your dish.
Add Creaminess: For a luxurious touch, include diced avocado to your salad, making it wonderfully creamy and rich.
Crunch Factor: Toss in some fresh asparagus for a crunchy, vibrant bite that adds color and nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate basil or dill for a fragrant lift. These fresh herbs complement the seafood beautifully, enhancing that Mediterranean experience.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes to the dressing to give your salad a delightful kick. Not too overwhelming, just a gentle warmth that teases the palate!
Citrus Variety: Experiment with blood oranges or grapefruits instead of tangerines for a zesty flavor change. The sweetness paired with the bitterness can add depth to your dressing.
Grain Boost: For added texture and heartiness, mix in some quinoa or couscous. This transforms the salad into a filling meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Slightly Smoky: Want to amp up the flavor? Prepare the seafood on the grill for a slightly smoky flavor that brings an exciting twist to this traditional dish.

Feel free to dive into more options, like whipping up a delightful Cheeseburger Salad Sauce to drizzle on top or trying your hand at a scrumptious Protein Egg Salad as a side!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this delicious Seafood Salad ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can cook the octopus, squid, and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the citrus dressing can be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the salad’s freshness, wait to combine the seafood and dressing until just before serving; this way, the seafood remains vibrant and the flavors remain bright. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together and enjoy the tantalizing taste of the Mediterranean with ease!

What to Serve with Tender Italian Seafood Salad

As the vibrant flavors mingle on your plate, the right sides can elevate your seafood experience to a whole new level.

Creamy Polenta: This comforting dish, with its smooth texture, absorbs the zesty dressing beautifully, enhancing each bite. It’s a warm counterpart to the chilled salad, making for a cozy combination.
Crusty Ciabatta: Perfect for sopping up any leftover citrus dressing, this rustic bread adds a satisfying crunch and complements the seafood without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and freshness of grilled asparagus offer a crunch that contrasts with the tender seafood, making every bite a delightful experience.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous, mixed with olives, herbs, and lemon zest, adds another layer of Mediterranean flair, tying in beautifully with the salad’s bright notes.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, refreshes the palate, enhancing the seafood’s flavors while keeping your gathering light and breezy.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Diced mango and pineapple balanced with mint bring sweetness and brightness, providing a refreshing dessert option that complements the zesty seafood salad perfectly.

Pairing these dishes will make your dining experience rich, harmonious, and utterly delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Seafood Salad

Fridge: Keep leftover Seafood Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring freshness.

Freezer: Seafood Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume it within a month for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating: If serving after freezing, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. It’s best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the Seafood Salad up to 12 hours in advance and let it sit in the fridge to enhance the flavors before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Seafood Salad

Fresh Seafood Matters: Always choose the freshest seafood you can find. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor of your Seafood Salad and ensure a delicious outcome.
Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking seafood, as it can become tough. Keep a close eye on the octopus and shrimp to maintain that tender texture.
Dress it Right: For the best flavor, dress the seafood salad just before serving. If preparing ahead, allow time for the flavors to meld in the fridge but dress just before enjoying.
Seasoning is Key: Taste and adjust the seasoning of your salad as you go. A pinch of salt and a dash of citrus juice can make all the difference in bringing out the fresh flavors.
Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize the Seafood Salad by substituting different seafood or adding extra veggies to suit your taste—creativity adds personal flair!

Tender Italian Seafood Salad with Citrus Dressing Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select fresh seafood for this salad?
Absolutely! When choosing seafood, look for vibrant colors and a fresh, briny smell. The octopus should appear moist and firm, while shrimp should be bright pink with a slightly firm texture. For squid, the flesh should look glossy and slightly translucent; avoid any that look dull or have dark spots all over.

How should I store leftover Seafood Salad?
You can store any leftover Seafood Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only keeps it fresh but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving again to revitalize the ingredients!

Can I freeze Seafood Salad?
While Seafood Salad is best enjoyed fresh, if you need to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within a month for the best texture. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight before serving. Remember, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature!

What if my octopus doesn’t become tender?
If your octopus isn’t tender after the initial cooking time, it may need a little longer. Continue simmering in 5-minute increments, checking for tenderness along the way. Additionally, using a wine cork while cooking, as suggested in the recipe, can greatly help tenderize the octopus during the cooking process.

Is this Seafood Salad suitable for people with allergies?
This Seafood Salad contains common allergens like seafood. If you have allergies, consider substituting the seafood with options that are safe for you, or even opt for a mixed vegetable salad instead. Always check labels for any other ingredients used in the dressing, like Dijon mustard, as some contain allergens you might want to avoid.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Of course! You can make this Seafood Salad up to 12 hours in advance. Simply prepare the salad, store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to develop, and dress just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and vibrant!