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A plated scungilli salad garnished with lemon and parsley

Scungilli Salad

Emily
Fresh, zesty, and protein-packed, this Scungilli Salad is a must-try seafood dish. Learn how to make it easily at home with bold Italian-inspired flavor!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 peoples
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 can 15 oz scungilli, drained and rinsed
  • or use fresh pre-cooked scungilli if available
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • use high-quality for best flavor
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • from about 2 lemons
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 stalk celery thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for a touch of heat
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/4 cup chopped black olives or green olives
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup arugula or mixed greens for serving
  • Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Rinse and Slice the Scungilli

  • If you’re using canned scungilli, drain it well in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove excess brine. Slice the scungilli into thin, bite-sized rounds if they aren’t pre-sliced. Pat dry with paper towels.
  • Tip: If using fresh or frozen scungilli, boil in salted water for 10–15 minutes or until tender. Let cool, then slice thinly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves of finely minced garlic
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Whisk until the mixture is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

  • To the bowl with the dressing, add:
  • Sliced red onion
  • Sliced celery
  • Chopped parsley
  • (Optional) diced red bell pepper or olives
  • Gently combine the ingredients with the dressing until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Combine with Scungilli

  • Add the sliced scungilli to the bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently fold the seafood into the mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated in the tangy dressing.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t overmix — keep the texture of the scungilli intact for the best mouthfeel.

Step 5: Chill and Let Marinate

  • Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour, or for best results, chill overnight. This allows the flavors to fully absorb and meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  • Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Taste the salad and add more salt or lemon juice as needed to achieve your desired flavor. Serve on a bed of arugula or mixed greens and garnish with lemon wedges or extra parsley.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 430mg
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
Protein: 18g
Keyword Cold Seafood Salad, Italian Seafood Salad, Scungilli Salad