Crab Salad (Seafood Salad) – Don’t LOSE this Recipe! 🦀🥗😋
This Crab Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Made with imitation crab meat (or real crab if you prefer), crunchy celery, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a sandwich filling, salad topping, or appetizer. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish is a must-have in your recipe collection!
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and easy seafood salad step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Versatile : Perfect as a sandwich filling, salad topping, dip, or standalone dish.
- Light & Refreshing : A bright, creamy salad that’s great for lunches or summer gatherings.
- Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or other mix-ins to suit your taste.
- Budget-Friendly : Imitation crab meat keeps costs low while still delivering great flavor.
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
- 1 pound imitation crab meat (krab ), shredded or chopped
- 1 shallot , minced (about 2 tablespoons )
- ½ cup celery , minced (about 2–3 stalks )
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tanginess )
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed, if possible )
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Optional add-ins :
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Hot sauce or red pepper flakes (for heat )
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Shred or chop the imitation crab meat into bite-sized pieces. If using real crab meat, gently flake it apart to avoid breaking it up too much.
- Mince the shallot and celery for added flavor and crunch.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Add the shredded crab meat, minced shallot, and minced celery to the bowl with the dressing.
- Gently toss everything together until the crab meat and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix if using delicate real crab meat.
Step 4: Season to Taste
- Season the salad with salt, pepper, and any optional add-ins like Old Bay seasoning, fresh herbs, or hot sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the crab salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Real Crab Meat : For a more luxurious version, substitute imitation crab with fresh lump crab meat.
- Add Fresh Herbs : Stir in fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness.
- Make It Creamier : Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess and tang.
- Switch Up Veggies : Add diced cucumber, red bell pepper, or avocado for extra crunch and flavor.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Perfect Pairings
This Crab Salad pairs beautifully with:
- Sandwiches or Wraps : Serve on croissants, bagels, or whole-grain bread for a delicious sandwich.
- Salads : Spoon over a bed of mixed greens for a light and satisfying meal.
- Crackers or Toast : Use as a spread on crackers, baguette slices, or toasted bread.
- Side Dishes : Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories : ~200 kcal
- Protein : ~10g
- Carbohydrates : ~8g
- Fat : ~15g
- Fiber : ~1g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Crab Salad is a quick, versatile, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe has got you covered. With its creamy texture, fresh ingredients, and customizable options, it’s a seafood salad you’ll want to make again and again.
