Frutti Di Mare Seafood Salad, Refreshing, Authentic & Irresistibly Italian

If you’ve ever dreamed of sitting by the Italian coast, watching the sun shimmer over turquoise water while enjoying a dish that tastes like the sea itself, Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad is your dream on a plate.

This bright, briny, and refreshing Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad brings together the best of the ocean, tender shrimp, sweet scallops, delicate calamari, and fresh clams, all lightly marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

The beauty of Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad lies in its simplicity. Every bite tells a story of coastal markets, fishermen’s catches, and centuries of Italian culinary love. It’s perfect for picnics, summer dinners, or elegant holiday spreads.

If you’re already a fan of light and refreshing recipes like our Strawberry Spinach Salad, this Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad will absolutely win you over.

Understanding the Origin of Frutti di Mare

What Does “Frutti di Mare” Mean in Italian?

“Frutti di Mare” translates to “fruits of the sea,” an expression Italians use to describe seafood in all its bounty, shrimp, mussels, scallops, calamari, and more. Each type adds its own flavor and texture, just like different fruits contribute to a fruit salad. That’s the beauty of Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad, it’s truly the sea’s harvest on your plate.

The Coastal Roots of Italian Seafood Traditions

This Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad was born along the Italian coastline, particularly in Naples, Sicily, and the Amalfi region. Fishermen would bring home leftover seafood from their catch, poach it in aromatic broth, and toss it with olive oil and lemon.

Over time, Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad evolved from a humble fisherman’s meal into a world-renowned dish served in fine Italian restaurants.

Why This Salad is Perfect for Summer Gatherings

Because Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad is served cold, it’s incredibly refreshing. It’s light enough for hot days but rich enough to satisfy. The tangy dressing, crisp vegetables, and tender seafood make it a summer essential.

Frutti Di Mare Seafood Salad, Refreshing, Authentic & Irresistibly Italian

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• Author: Olivia Maze
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A bright and refreshing Italian seafood salad made with shrimp, clams, scallops, and calamari tossed in lemon and olive oil. Perfect for summer gatherings or light meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the poaching broth:

4 cups water

1 cup dry white wine or chicken stock

2 tsp kosher salt

2–3 bay leaves

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1 small onion, roughly chopped

For the salad:

2 celery ribs, thinly chopped

1 large yellow or orange bell pepper, diced

1 lb tomatoes, seeded and diced

½ cup chopped chives

1 lb small cocktail shrimp

1 lb small clams in shell

½ lb bay scallops

½ lb calamari, cut into rings

¼ cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil (or more to taste)

Juice of 1–2 lemons

Kosher salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Make the poaching broth: Combine all broth ingredients in a pot, bring to a boil, then turn off heat and let steep while prepping vegetables.

2. Prep the vegetables: Dice the pepper, tomatoes, and celery. Chop chives and juice the lemons. Place vegetables and shrimp in a large bowl.

3. Poach the clams: Bring broth to a boil, add clams, and cook 3–4 minutes until open. Remove meat and add to bowl.

4. Poach the scallops: Turn off heat, add scallops, cover, and let sit for 3–4 minutes. Remove and add to bowl.

5. Poach the calamari: Boil broth again, add calamari rings, cook 30–60 seconds, then strain. Add calamari to bowl.

6. Dress the salad: Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss and taste. Adjust flavors until balanced. Mix in chives and chill before serving.

Notes

This salad tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld. Use fresh seafood for the best results. Serve chilled with crusty bread or pasta.

• Prep Time: 25 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Category: Salad
• Method: Poaching
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 318
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Must-Have Ingredients for an Authentic Frutti Di Mare Salad

Before you start, gather everything you need. Using the freshest ingredients will elevate your salad from good to unforgettable.

Seafood Selection

💡 Chef’s Tip: Always check for seafood freshness,the clams should smell like the ocean, not fishy.

Vegetable Base

• 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced for crunch
• 1 large yellow or orange bell pepper, diced for color
• 1 pound tomatoes, seeded and diced
• ½ cup fresh chopped chives for a mild onion note

Dressing Essentials

• ¼ cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil (or more to taste)
• Juice of 1–2 lemons
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Poaching Broth

• 4 cups water
• 1 cup dry white wine or chicken stock
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2–3 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small onion, chopped

Step-by-Step: How to Make an Authentic Frutti Di Mare Salad

Making this Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad might sound elaborate, but once you try it, you’ll realize it’s just a series of simple, mindful steps.

Make the Poaching Broth

In a large pot, combine water, white wine, salt, bay leaves, pepper, and onion. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat. Let it rest while you prep your veggies, this allows the flavors to develop into a fragrant base for poaching the seafood.

Prep the Vegetables

Dice the bell pepper, seed and dice the tomatoes, slice the celery, and chop the chives. Combine them in a large mixing bowl. Add shrimp if pre-cooked.

Poach the Clams

Reheat the broth to a gentle boil. Add clams and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until they open. Remove them immediately and discard any that stay closed. Separate the meat from shells and add it to your vegetable bowl — it’s the soul of Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad.

Poach the Scallops

With the heat turned off, drop scallops into the hot broth. Cover and let them poach gently for about 4 minutes, they’ll turn opaque and tender. Scoop them out and transfer to the bowl.

Poach the Calamari

Bring the broth back to a simmer and cook the calamari rings for no more than 1 minute. Overcooked calamari gets rubbery fast, so keep an eye on it. Drain, cool slightly, and add to your salad bowl.

Dress the Salad

Pour in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning, the balance of acidity and salt is key for the perfect Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad flavor.

Chill the salad for at least 2 hours. The rest time helps the seafood absorb the lemon and olive oil, creating an incredible depth of flavor.

Tips for the Best Seafood Salad Texture and Flavor

Avoid Overcooked Seafood

Each seafood type has a short cooking time, and overdoing it can make the Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad chewy instead of tender.

Balance Acidity and Oil

Too much lemon juice can overpower the seafood. Start small, then add more until your Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad tastes bright but balanced.

Chill to Perfection

Don’t skip the chilling step, it’s essential for letting the flavors meld. Two hours in the fridge is ideal.

Pair It Smart

For a balanced meal, pair your Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad with something light and fresh like our Cucumber Salad.

Common Seafood Salad Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Using Frozen Instead of Fresh Seafood

Frozen seafood releases water when thawed, which can dilute the dressing. Always opt for fresh when possible for a crisp Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad.

Overdressing or Underseasoning

Seafood absorbs flavor quickly. Add dressing gradually and season just before chilling.

Skipping the Chill Time

Chilling develops the full Italian flavor of Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad.

Ignoring Seafood Freshness

Always buy from a trusted fishmonger. One bad clam can ruin your dish.

Health Benefits of Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad

Rich in Protein and Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Each serving of Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad provides lean protein and essential omega-3s that promote heart health and muscle recovery.

Low in Calories and High in Nutrients

With around 318 calories per serving, this Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad is perfect for anyone looking for healthy, light meals.

Supports the Mediterranean Diet

The olive oil, lemon, and seafood trio defines the Mediterranean diet, fresh, vibrant, and nourishing.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Perfect Wine and Cocktails

Pair your Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad with light white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Best Side Dishes

• Garlic bruschetta
• Roasted potatoes
• Crusty Italian bread
• Light green salad

Turn It into a Dinner Platter

Serve your Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad over chilled pasta or alongside antipasto platters.

Conclusion

Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad captures the essence of Mediterranean living, fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. Whether served at family gatherings or summer parties, this dish always impresses.

Each spoonful reminds you of the Italian coast, sun, sea breeze, and a touch of lemon. Once you master this Frutti di Mare Seafood Salad, it’ll become your go-to recipe for elegance and simplicity combined.

Try more Italian-inspired dishes at Olivia Maze Recipes and keep your table fresh and full of life!

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