Seven Fishes Seafood Salad (Italian Christmas Classic)

Ah, the Seven Fishes Seafood Salad a true Italian Christmas Eve classic that brings the ocean to your holiday table in the most elegant way possible. But guess what? You don’t have to wait for December 24th to enjoy this flavor-packed celebration of the sea. It’s light, refreshing, and just bursting with fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and tender seafood.

This dish is like a party in every bite the kind that transports you to a cozy Italian kitchen, where Nonna’s bustling around with lemon wedges and olive oil, and someone’s always sneaking a bite straight from the bowl (hey, no judgment here). It’s sophisticated enough to wow guests but simple enough to whip up for a special dinner any time you’re craving something fresh and fabulous.

Why You’ll Love Seven Fishes Seafood Salad

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for holidays, date nights, or light lunches. Serve it cold, warm, as a main, or even as an appetizer.

Budget-Friendly: You can adjust the seafood based on what’s fresh or on sale. Mix in your favorites without going overboard.

Quick and Easy: It comes together faster than you’d expect minimal cooking, lots of tossing, and boom: flavor city.

Customizable: Don’t like calamari? Skip it. Love shrimp? Double up. You can mix and match your seafood like a pro.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Seven Fishes Seafood Salad

This seafood salad is all about freshness and harmony. Here’s what goes into this coastal masterpiece:

Shrimp: Plump and juicy, these are the crowd favorite of the seafood bunch. Cooked just right, they’re tender and full of flavor.

Calamari (Squid): Brings a chewy, delicate bite that soaks up that citrusy dressing beautifully.

Scallops: Sweet and tender, they add a touch of luxury and richness.

Mussels: Briny and soft, they give depth to the overall seafood mix.

Clams: Tiny but mighty—they pack a punch of ocean flavor.

Lobster (or Crab): Adds a touch of decadence. You can use real or imitation based on what’s available.

Octopus (optional): If you’re feeling adventurous, octopus adds a unique texture and takes the salad up a notch.

Celery: Crunchy and fresh, it balances out the soft seafood.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp little zing that wakes up the salad.

Fresh Parsley: The green, vibrant heart of the dish. Adds brightness and color.

Lemon Juice & Zest: Brings all the seafood to life with a tangy, citrusy kick.

Olive Oil: Rich, smooth, and essential. Use the good stuff here—it really makes a difference.

Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every bite.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. You’ll need it to cook your seafood to tender perfection.

Combine Ingredients: Cook each type of seafood separately until just done (they cook at different times!). Shock them in ice water to keep everything firm and vibrant. Drain well.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: You won’t be baking here, but make sure your large mixing bowl is clean and chilled if possible this helps keep everything fresh.

Assemble the Dish: In your bowl, combine the cooked seafood with chopped celery, red onion, and parsley.

Cook to Perfection: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Pour it over the seafood and toss gently to coat. You want every piece glistening with that citrusy goodness.

Finishing Touches: Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (but a few hours is even better). This gives the flavors time to meld.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve cold or room temp. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges, and watch it disappear.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~260
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling)

How to Serve Seven Fishes Seafood Salad

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve over a bed of arugula or baby spinach
• Spoon into endive leaves or lettuce cups for a fun appetizer
• Pair with crusty bread or crostini to scoop up every last bit
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet contrast
• Serve alongside a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Always use the freshest seafood you can find for best results
• Don’t overcook seafood can go from tender to rubbery in seconds
• Make ahead and let it marinate overnight for more flavor
• Add chili flakes if you want a little heat
• Try adding diced fennel or artichoke hearts for variation
• Keep all your cuts uniform for a prettier presentation
• Taste before serving and adjust salt, lemon, and olive oil as needed
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• If you’re short on time, a good quality seafood mix can speed things up
• Serve it in individual cups for a party or holiday starter

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it properly and pat it dry before cooking.

2. What’s the best seafood combo?
Shrimp, scallops, calamari, and mussels are the most common. Feel free to mix and match.

3. Can I make this the day before?
Absolutely it actually tastes even better after a few hours of marinating.

4. What do I do if I don’t like a certain seafood?
Just leave it out or substitute with more of the seafood you do enjoy.

5. Is this dish served cold or hot?
Traditionally, it’s served chilled or at room temperature.

6. How long does this keep in the fridge?
Up to 2 days is ideal. After that, the texture starts to suffer.

7. Can I add pasta to this salad?
Sure! Small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work great and stretch it for a crowd.

8. What if I can’t find all seven fishes?
No stress! Even three or four types will still be delicious.

9. Can I use pre-cooked seafood?
Yes, just skip the boiling step and go straight to assembling and dressing.

10. Is it okay to skip the marinating time?
It’s edible right away, but letting it sit really helps the flavors shine.

Conclusion

Seven Fishes Seafood Salad is more than a holiday tradition it’s a celebration of bold, fresh flavors and the beauty of simple ingredients coming together. It’s light but satisfying, fancy yet approachable, and endlessly customizable to whatever seafood you love. Whether you’re honoring a tradition or just treating yourself to something special, this dish brings the taste of the sea straight to your table with elegance and joy.

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