Insalata di Mare

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Insalata di Mare, a delightful seafood salad, is a classic Italian dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. This refreshing recipe combines a variety of seafood with a zesty dressing, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light meal. Rich in flavors and textures, Insalata di Mare is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this exquisite dish at home.

Ingredients

  • 200g of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 200g of calamari, cleaned and sliced
  • 200g of mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 1 medium-sized red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: arugula or mixed greens for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set aside. In the same pot, add the calamari and mussels, cooking them for about 5 minutes until the mussels open and the calamari is tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, calamari, and mussels. Add the sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Pour the dressing over the seafood mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, you can place the Insalata di Mare on a bed of arugula or mixed greens for an elegant presentation.

FAQs

What seafood can I use for Insalata di Mare?

You can use a variety of seafood including shrimp, calamari, mussels, and even octopus. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference and availability.

Can I make Insalata di Mare ahead of time?

Yes, Insalata di Mare can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.

Is Insalata di Mare gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products. Always check your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

What can I serve with Insalata di Mare?

This seafood salad pairs well with crusty bread, a light white wine, or as part of a larger Italian meal with pasta or risotto.

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