This Seafood Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side for summer gatherings. Combining tender shrimp, imitation crab, fresh veggies, and a creamy dill-infused dressing, this salad brings the flavors of the ocean straight to your table. With the addition of a hint of Old Bay seasoning and fresh lemon juice, this salad strikes the perfect balance between savory and zesty. Serve it on its own, over a bed of greens, or as a sandwich filling for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces imitation crab meat, flaked or sticks cut into slices
- 8 ounces raw shrimp (51-60 count)
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons red onion, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill (reserve some for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Fill a medium pot with water and squeeze the juice from the quartered lemon into the pot. Toss in the lemon quarters as well.
- Bring the water to a boil, then add the shrimp. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Drain the shrimp and run them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- While the shrimp are cooling, finely dice the celery and mince the red onion. Set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and chopped fresh dill.
- Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper to suit your preference.
Step 4: Combine the Salad
- To the dressing, add the chopped shrimp, imitation crab meat, diced celery, and minced red onion.
- Gently toss everything together until all the seafood and vegetables are coated with the creamy dressing.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the seafood salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, garnish with additional fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve chilled, either on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of lettuce for a refreshing meal.
Conclusion
This Seafood Salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to the seaside. The tender shrimp, flaky imitation crab, crisp celery, and zesty dressing come together to create a light, creamy dish that’s bursting with freshness. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this seafood salad is a delightful option that can be enjoyed year-round. With its easy preparation and vibrant ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite!