Authentic Mexican Ensalada de Mariscos (Seafood Salad)

Ingredients

Seafood:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb cooked octopus, chopped (optional)
• ½ lb cooked crab meat or imitation crab
• ½ lb cooked scallops (optional)

Vegetables:

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced or diced
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing:

• Juice of 4 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Maggi sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro leaves for topping
• Optional: Hot sauce for serving

Prepare the Seafood

• Ensure all seafood is cooked and chilled. If using frozen seafood, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels.

Prepare the Vegetables

• Thinly slice the cucumber, onion, and tomatoes.
• If adding avocado, slice it just before serving to prevent browning.

Mix the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Maggi sauce, salt, and pepper.

Combine

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the seafood, cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
• Gently toss with the prepared dressing to coat everything evenly.

Chill

• Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve

1. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl.
2. Garnish with additional cilantro and avocado slices.
3. Serve with tostadas, saltine crackers, or tortilla chips, and offer hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.

Notes
This Ensalada de Mariscos is a light, fresh dish that highlights the flavors of the seafood with a tangy citrus dressing. It’s perfect for warm weather and pairs beautifully with a cold beer or agua fresca! 🍤🌊