12 Seafood Salads Perfect For Mother’s Day Picnics And Celebrations

Mother’s Day is all about pampering the special woman in your life, and what better way to show your love than with a fresh, flavorful seafood salad? Light yet luxurious, these dishes are perfect for picnics in the park, elegant brunches, or a cozy backyard gathering. Imagine tender shrimp tossed with crisp greens and a zesty lemon dressing, or creamy crab salad piled high on buttery croissants. Whether your mom loves classic flavors or adventurous twists, these seafood salads bring a touch of indulgence to her day—without keeping you stuck in the kitchen for hours.

From refreshing citrus-infused ceviche to rich lobster rolls and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired octopus salads, this list has something for every taste. We’ve included make-ahead options for stress-free prep, light and healthy choices for warm-weather feasts, and a few decadent picks for those who believe Mother’s Day calls for a little extra luxury. Plus, with tips on pairing wines, selecting the freshest seafood, and presenting your salads like a pro, you’ll have everything you need to create a meal that feels as special as she is.

So, grab your favorite serving platter, chill a bottle of her preferred wine, and let’s dive into these 12 seafood salads that will make this Mother’s Day unforgettable.

Mediterranean Octopus Salad with Olives

This Mediterranean octopus salad is a delightful dish full of vibrant flavors and textures. With tender octopus, briny olives, and a burst of fresh herbs, it offers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for spring gatherings like Mother’s Day celebrations.

The preparation is surprisingly simple, making it an ideal choice for both experienced cooks and beginners. The salad is light yet satisfying, ideal for picnics or as a starter at your festive table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked octopus, sliced
• 1 cup mixed olives (black and green)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced octopus, olives, cherry tomatoes, capers, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Smoked Salmon Salad with Dill Cream Cheese

This smoked salmon salad with dill cream cheese is a delightful dish perfect for a Mother’s Day picnic. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare. The combination of smoky salmon and fresh dill creates a refreshing taste that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Not only is it quick to make, but it also brings a touch of sophistication to any outdoor celebration. Serve it alongside some crisp greens and a squeeze of lemon for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 8 oz smoked salmon, sliced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mixed greens for serving
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. On a serving plate, arrange the smoked salmon slices neatly.
3. Dollop the dill cream cheese mixture over the salmon.
4. Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens and garnish with lemon wedges.

Crab and Mango Salad with Chili Lime Vinaigrette

This Crab and Mango Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for any Mother’s Day celebration. The tender crabmeat pairs beautifully with juicy mango, crunchy bell peppers, and a zesty chili lime vinaigrette that ties everything together. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a picnic or a casual gathering.

Each bite offers a refreshing taste that’s both satisfying and light. The vibrant colors of the ingredients also add a visually appealing touch to your table. It’s a dish that combines ease with elegance, making it a great addition to your Mother’s Day festivities!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh crabmeat
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the crabmeat, diced mango, chopped bell pepper, and sliced red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your refreshing crab and mango salad!

Shrimp Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing

This Shrimp Avocado Salad is a refreshing choice for any Mother’s Day picnic or celebration. The combination of tender shrimp and creamy avocado creates a delightful taste that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, the zesty lime dressing adds a bright kick that lifts the entire dish, making it a perfect way to celebrate mom.

Simple to prepare, this salad comes together in no time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. It’s a great option for outdoor meals, bringing together delicious flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Shrimp: In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and let them cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
4. Add Dressing: Drizzle the lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
5. Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal!

Lobster Salad with Citrus and Herbs

This lobster salad is a delightful blend of fresh and zesty flavors that make it perfect for any Mother’s Day picnic. The tender lobster meat pairs beautifully with a medley of citrus fruits and fresh herbs, creating a refreshing dish that’s both light and satisfying. It’s surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the moment and less time in the kitchen.

The citrus adds a bright note, while the herbs enhance the overall flavor, making each bite a taste of summer. This salad not only looks beautiful but is also a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance to your celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
• 1 cup orange segments
• 1 cup grapefruit segments
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lobster meat, orange segments, grapefruit segments, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Add the chopped parsley and dill to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the lobster mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Grilled Calamari Salad with Arugula

This Grilled Calamari Salad with Arugula is a fresh and zesty dish, perfect for any Mother’s Day picnic. The grilled calamari adds a delightful smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the peppery notes of arugula. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for celebrating special moments without a lot of fuss.

The combination of tender calamari and crisp arugula creates a unique texture, while a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice work to enhance all the flavors. This salad is not only delicious but also makes for an eye-catching presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh calamari, cleaned and sliced
• 4 cups arugula, washed and dried
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the calamari with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the calamari for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly charred and cooked through. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, cherry tomatoes, and grilled calamari.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss everything gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tuna Niçoise Salad with Green Beans

Tuna Niçoise Salad is a delightful mix of fresh flavors and textures, perfect for spring picnics and gatherings. It combines tender green beans, creamy boiled eggs, and hearty tuna, creating a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and light. This salad stands out with its vibrant colors and is simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any Mother’s Day celebration.

The combination of crisp green beans, rich tuna, and the creamy yolk of the eggs brings a wonderful harmony of flavors. Toss in some fresh herbs for an added touch, and you have a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients

• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, halved
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), for garnish

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Boil a pot of water and add green beans. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine green beans, tuna, cherry tomatoes, and black olives. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Plate the Salad: Arrange the salad on a serving platter, topping it with the halved hard-boiled eggs. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for garnish.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Seafood Pasta Salad with Herbs and Lemon

This Seafood Pasta Salad with Herbs and Lemon is a delightful combination of fresh seafood, perfectly cooked pasta, and zesty flavors. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with protein, making it a great choice for any picnic or special celebration like Mother’s Day. With a bright lemon dressing and a handful of fresh herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying the day.

The medley of shrimp, scallops, and mussels brings a wonderful taste of the sea, while the herbs add an aromatic touch. Perfect for warm days, this salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just toss it together, chill, and you’re ready for a delightful feast!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked scallops
• 1 cup mussels, cleaned and steamed
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Seafood: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, scallops, and mussels. Add the cooked pasta, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine. Add the parsley and basil, mixing well.
5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Fish Tacos Salad with Avocado Cream

This Fish Tacos Salad with Avocado Cream is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It combines seasoned fish with fresh veggies and a creamy avocado dressing, making it a perfect spring dish for Mother’s Day picnics. The taste is refreshing and vibrant, with a balance of spice from the fish and creaminess from the avocado.

Best of all, this recipe is simple to whip up. You can prepare the fish and toss together the salad in just a short time, allowing you to spend more moments enjoying the company of loved ones. It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos, served in a salad format, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Season the fish fillets with taco seasoning and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from heat and flake into pieces.
2. In a bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced tomatoes, and red onion.
3. In a blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to create the avocado cream.
4. To serve, place the salad mixture on a plate, top with flaked fish, and drizzle with the avocado cream. Garnish with cilantro before enjoying.

Smoked Trout Salad with Beets and Goat Cheese

Smoked trout salad with beets and goat cheese is a refreshing dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of trout with the earthy sweetness of beets. The creamy goat cheese adds a delightful tang, making this salad a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it ideal for Mother’s Day picnics and celebrations.

This vibrant salad not only looks stunning on the table but also packs a punch in taste. The ingredients can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to assemble it quickly just before serving. It’s a dish that feels special without being overly complicated, perfect for honoring the moms in your life.

Ingredients

• 2 smoked trout fillets
• 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beets: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45-60 minutes until tender. Once cooled, peel and dice them.
2. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted beets, and chopped parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Add the Trout and Goat Cheese: Plate the salad and top it with smoked trout fillets and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately as a fresh and flavorful salad dish, perfect for any celebration.

Spicy Seafood Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing

This spicy seafood salad brings a delightful kick to your picnic table, perfect for Mother’s Day celebrations. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making it a hit among seafood lovers. With the zing of lemon and garlic dressing, every bite offers a bright and zesty taste that truly elevates the dish.

Plus, this recipe is super simple to whip up. Just toss together your favorite seafood, fresh greens, and the homemade dressing for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy on the eyes. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, this salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup scallops
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Seafood: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and scallops, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the shrimp turns pink and the scallops are opaque, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Add the cooled seafood and drizzle with the lemon garlic dressing. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve: Plate the salad and enjoy it fresh with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added citrus touch.

Coconut Shrimp Salad with Pineapple

This Coconut Shrimp Salad with Pineapple is a delightful mix of tropical flavors that will brighten any Mother’s Day picnic. The sweetness of fresh pineapple pairs perfectly with the crispy coconut shrimp, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of tender shrimp coated in a crunchy coconut crust, tossed with juicy pineapple, and a hint of citrus makes every bite an enjoyable experience. This salad is vibrant and can be served as a main dish or a light appetizer. Plus, it’s great for sharing!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for a mixture of coconut and breadcrumbs.
2. Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the flour, then into the egg, and finally into the coconut-breadcrumb mixture, making sure they are well-coated.
3. Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapple, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine and Serve: Toss the fried shrimp with the pineapple mixture and serve immediately for the best crunch.

Final Thoughts
Celebrating Mom should be effortless yet extraordinary—just like these seafood salads. Whether she prefers the simplicity of a shrimp and avocado stack or the bold flavors of a Cajun crab boil salad, each recipe is designed to delight her taste buds while keeping the day relaxed and joyful. With fresh ingredients, bright flavors, and a little creativity, you can turn a simple meal into a heartfelt tribute. So pick her favorite, add a side of sunshine, and get ready to toast to the best mom ever—one delicious bite at a time.