Coastal Catch Pasta Salad a Symphony of Seafood
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a seafood pasta salad that tastes like sunshine and seaside holidays? Honestly, this recipe is dead easy, and the lemon vinaigrette just sings! It's a summer seafood salad sensation.
Brief Overview
This Italian inspired seafood pasta salad is a total crowd pleaser. You know, that kind of dish that disappears in minutes at a BBQ? It's easy peasy to make, taking only about an hour, and serves six hungry folks.
Think of it as a posh picnic treat, without the posh price tag.
Main Benefits
The main benefit? This crab and pasta salad is packed with protein and healthy fats. It's the perfect excuse to get your fish on.
This is perfect for a seafood pasta salad for BBQ . What makes this recipe special, you ask? It is the perfect balance of tangy, fresh, and hearty.
Ready to dive in? Let's get to the ingredients for the best easy seafood salad recipe you'll ever make. It will become one of your favourite pasta seafood salad recipes I promise.
The Best Coastal Catch: The Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need for my Coastal Catch Seafood Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette . It's a symphony of Mediterranean Seafood Pasta Salad , trust me! This ain't your average salad; we're going all out with fresh flavours.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Seafood Pasta Salad
Alright, let's talk ingredients for this amazing seafood pasta salad . This is a symphony of the sea, so get ready! I promise it's easier than you think.
Honestly, anyone can nail this!
Main Ingredients: The Coastal Catch
First, the pasta. You'll need 1 pound (450g) of your fave shape. Rotini and fusilli are perfect for grabbing all that delicious sauce.
Make sure to cook the pasta "al dente". That means it's got a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta is mushy and bleh!.
Now, for the star of the show: the seafood! We're using 1 pound (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined. Medium or large shrimp work great.
And don't forget 8 ounces (225g) of imitation crab meat, flaked. Plus, 8 ounces (225g) of calamari rings, pre-cooked. No need to turn your kitchen into a fish market, yeah?
Lastly, we need some color and crunch. Grab 1 red bell pepper, diced, ½ cup (75g) red onion, finely chopped, and ½ cup (75g) celery, diced.
For freshness, add ¼ cup (15g) fresh parsley and ¼ cup (15g) fresh dill, both chopped. Don't forget ½ cup (60g) Kalamata olives, halved, and ¼ cup (30g) capers, drained.
Seriously, this Italian seafood pasta salad is gonna be insane !
Seasoning Notes: Bring on the Flavor
This isn't just about ingredients, it's about flavor . For the lemon herb vinaigrette, you'll need ½ cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil, ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons (30ml) white wine vinegar.
Gotta have 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. If you're feeling brave, add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
Salt and pepper to taste, of course.
Can't find fresh dill? No worries! Use dried, but halve the amount. Honestly, a squeeze of extra lemon juice at the end really brightens it up.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Don't go rhelping a professional kitchen. All you really need is a large pot for the pasta. A colander to drain it, obviously.
And a large mixing bowl to toss everything together. Oh, and a whisk for the vinaigrette. Super simple, right? This easy seafood salad recipe is designed for weeknights!
So there you have it! Now, let's get cooking and make some summer seafood salad . Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Coastal Catch Pasta Salad: Your New Summer Staple
Fancy a summer seafood salad that's both easy and elegant? This seafood pasta salad is just the ticket! Inspired by that insalata di mare you might find on a sun-drenched Italian coast, this version is perfect for a BBQ, picnic, or a simple lunch.
It’s so easy to make, even I, with my track record of kitchen mishaps, can nail it every time!
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place
Before you even think about turning on the hob, get your mise en place sorted. Honestly, it's a game changer! Dice that red bell pepper.
Chop your red onion and celery. Fresh herbs are non-negotiable so chop parsley and dill. Halve those kalamata olives, and drain the capers.
Having everything prepped means you can whizz through the recipe. Essential mise en place is essential.
step-by-step: From Zero to Hero
- Cook the Pasta: Cook 1 pound of pasta according to the packet. Rotini, fusilli, or penne work best. Don't overcook it! Al dente is the key. (Approx. 12 minutes) . Drain and rinse with cold water to stop it cooking.
- Seafood Sorted: Make sure your 1 pound cooked shrimp and 8 ounces calamari is ready. Flake 8 ounces of imitation crab meat.
- Veggie Prep: Grab your prepped vegetables!
- Vinaigrette Magic: Whisk together 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and pepper.
- Combine It All: In a big bowl, chuck in the cooled pasta, seafood, veggies, herbs, olives, and capers.
- Dress to Impress: Pour the vinaigrette over and gently toss it all together.
- Chill Out: Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors get to know each other.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Salad
Want to elevate your seafood pasta salad game? Add a squeeze of extra lemon at the end. It brightens everything up! Also, be careful not to overdress the salad; you want it coated, not swimming.
You can also prepare the salad a day in advance. Just hold off on the dressing until just before serving.
A cold seafood pasta salad is a must!
Recipe Notes: Coastal Catch Pasta Salad
Right, let's get into the nitty gritty. Here are some tips and tricks to make this seafood pasta salad the best it can be.
I've made this easy seafood salad recipe a few times now, and I've learned a thing or two. Honestly, sometimes it's the little things that make all the difference.
Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Pairings
Oh my gosh, presentation matters. You know? This summer seafood salad looks amazing when piled high on a platter. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
For a bit of extra colour, sprinkle some paprika on top. For drinks, a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc is fab.
You could also go for an Aperol spritz to make it more vibrant. Serve it with crusty bread to mop up all that delicious vinaigrette.
Storage: Keeping it Fresh
Listen up. This cold seafood pasta salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days . Make sure it's in an airtight container.
Freezing is not really recommended, as the pasta can get a bit mushy. Honestly, it's best enjoyed fresh. If you do need to reheat it, which I don't recommend, do so very gently.
Swaps & Twists
Fancy a change? You can try different variations. For a Mediterranean seafood pasta salad , add sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese.
Use basil instead of dill. If you're avoiding gluten, use gluten-free pasta. This way everyone can enjoy this pasta seafood salad recipe .
And if you want a crab and pasta salad just add fresh crab.
Nourishing Nibbles
Each serving of this Italian seafood pasta salad is roughly 450 calories. It is packed with protein and healthy fats.
It's a great source of omega-3s from the seafood. These are fantastic for your heart and brain. Plus, the veggies give you a good dose of vitamins and fiber.
So, it's not only delicious but also good for you.
Give it a go, yeah? This seafood pasta salad for BBQ is seriously easy. It's also a winner. Don't be afraid to add your own little touches.
After all, cooking is all about having fun. Now, get in the kitchen and make some magic happen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make seafood pasta salad ahead of time? Will it get soggy?
Absolutely! In fact, making this seafood pasta salad ahead of time is recommended. The flavours meld together beautifully when chilled for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. To avoid it becoming soggy, don't overdress it initially.
Add a little extra dressing just before serving if needed, as the pasta tends to absorb it.
What kind of seafood is best for seafood pasta salad? Can I use frozen seafood?
The beauty of seafood pasta salad is its versatility! Shrimp, imitation crab meat, and calamari rings are classic choices. Feel free to mix and match with other seafood like cooked lobster or scallops if you're feeling fancy!
Yes, you can use frozen seafood, just make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry before adding it to the salad to avoid a watery consistency.
How long does seafood pasta salad last in the fridge? Is it safe to eat the next day?
Seafood pasta salad is generally safe to eat the next day, and often tastes even better! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. After that, the texture and flavour might start to decline, and for food safety reasons, it's best to err on the side of caution, as seafood can be a bit risky if left too long.
I don't like capers/olives. What can I substitute in this seafood pasta salad recipe?
Not a problem, mate! If you're not keen on capers, try using finely chopped cornichons (small pickled gherkins) for a similar tangy flavour. For the olives, you could use sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist, or just leave them out altogether.
This recipe is super adaptable, so tailor it to your own taste preferences!
Is there a healthier version of seafood pasta salad I can make?
Definitely! You can lighten things up by using whole wheat pasta, which has more fibre. Reduce the amount of olive oil in the vinaigrette, or use a lighter dressing altogether. Loading up on extra veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and more bell peppers can also boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavour.
What's the best way to prevent my seafood pasta salad from being bland?
Bland seafood pasta salad is a crime against tastebuds! Make sure you're using plenty of fresh herbs like parsley and dill, and don't be shy with the lemon juice it adds a wonderful brightness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go; a little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference.
The quality of your seafood also matters, so try to source the freshest you can find!
Coastal Catch Pasta Salad A Symphony Of Seafood
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
