Seafood salad in vinegar

Seafood salad in vinegar – an explosion of freshness and flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Looking for a simple and quick recipe that adds a touch of elegance to your table? Seafood salad in vinegar is the perfect choice! This dish is not only delicious but also brings a palette of colors and textures, transforming any meal into a visual feast. The seafood, rich in proteins and nutrients, harmoniously combines with fresh vegetables, while the balsamic vinegar dressing offers an irresistible touch of freshness.

A bit of history

Seafood salads are appreciated in many culinary cultures, with deep roots in coastal gastronomic traditions. These dishes have evolved over time, with each region adding its own specific ingredients. Today, seafood salad is a symbol of summer and gatherings with friends, often served on warm days.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 head of green lettuce
- 1/2 carrot
- 1/2 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 1 small red onion
- 200 g seafood in vinegar (shrimp, calamari, mussels)
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 cucumber
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil

Tips for choosing ingredients

When selecting seafood, opt for a quality product, preferably from a trusted source. Fresh or frozen seafood is highly recommended, but those in vinegar are a convenient and delicious option. Make sure the vegetables are crisp and fresh for a vibrant salad.

Preparation techniques

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Wash the green lettuce well under cold water, then dry it using a salad spinner or a clean towel. Tear it into smaller strips for easy serving.
- Peel the carrot and slice it thinly.
- Cut the bell pepper into thin strips, the red onion into julienne, and the tomatoes into large chunks.
- Slice the cucumber into rounds.

2. Rinsing the seafood:
- Remove the seafood from the vinegar and rinse it well under cold water. This step will help reduce the intensity of the sour taste, allowing them to shine in the salad.

3. Assembling the salad:
- In a large bowl, add the torn lettuce, carrot, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and seafood. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.

4. Preparing the dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and dried basil. You can adjust the amount of salt and vinegar according to your personal taste.

5. Finalizing and serving:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the salad cold, as a savory appetizer or as a light main course, alongside a slice of toasted bread.

Possible variations

This recipe is very versatile, and the ingredients can be adapted to your preferences. You can add avocado for extra creaminess or olives for a salty kick. A handful of arugula or spinach can also add a pleasant bitterness. If you want to make the salad heartier, add some cubes of feta or mozzarella cheese.

Serving suggestions

This salad pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. A rustic bread with a crispy crust will complement summer outdoor meals perfectly.

Nutritional benefits

Seafood is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins (B12, D), and minerals (zinc, selenium), while fresh vegetables provide plenty of antioxidants and fiber. This salad is low in calories, with approximately 200 calories per serving, making it an ideal choice for a light meal or a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to use frozen seafood. Make sure to fully thaw and rinse them before adding to the salad.

2. What other dressings can I use for this salad?
You can experiment with yogurt-based dressings, mustard sauce, or even a spicy sauce to add extra flavor.

3. Is this salad suitable for special diets?
Yes, the salad is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for ketogenic or low-carb diets.

In conclusion, seafood salad in vinegar is a refined, easy-to-make choice that will bring a touch of ocean breeze to your kitchen. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your personal preferences to create a salad that becomes your favorite! Enjoy your meal!