Mixed Seafood Salad

Mixed Seafood Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that highlights a variety of fresh seafood, complemented by crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. It’s versatile, light, and perfect for a summer meal or as an elegant appetizer. Here's how to prepare it:

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Ingredients:

Seafood:

• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound scallops
• 1/2 pound squid, cleaned and cut into rings (tentacles included)
• 1/2 pound cooked mussels or clams (optional)
• 1/4 pound lump crab meat (optional)

Vegetables:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black or green olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Seafood:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
• In the same pot, add the scallops and poach for 2-3 minutes, or until just firm. Remove and set aside.
• Add the squid rings and tentacles to the boiling water and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until tender. Remove and set aside.
• If using mussels or clams, ensure they are cooked, shells discarded, and meats retained.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked seafood, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, parsley, and basil.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

4. Chill and Serve:

• Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve cold or at room temperature with crusty bread, crackers, or as a stand-alone dish.

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Tips:

• Seafood Variations: Feel free to mix and match your favorite seafood, like octopus, lobster, or fish chunks.
• Vegetable Additions: Add avocado slices, bell peppers, or arugula for extra texture and flavor.
• Make-Ahead: The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Keep it chilled until ready to serve.

This Mixed Seafood Salad is light, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!