Crab Seafood Salad

Ingredients

• 1.25 pounds imitation crab meat (flaked or chopped)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• ½ cup chopped celery
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Chop the imitation crab meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
   • Dice the onion and celery finely for a consistent texture throughout the salad.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, paprika, salt, dill, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the chopped crab meat, onion, and celery to the dressing. Gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill the Salad:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together for the best taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve cold as a standalone dish, over thick slices of tomato, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling.

Tips for the Perfect Crab Salad

• Chill Time: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour enhances the flavor and texture.
• Add-Ins: Experiment with additional ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
• Lighter Dressing: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier alternative.

Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Categories

• Salad
• Seafood Recipes
• Appetizers

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Seafood Pasta Salad: Mix the crab salad with cooked, chilled pasta for a hearty main dish.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the salad in lettuce cups or stuffed into hollowed-out bell peppers.
• Gourmet Addition: Add cooked shrimp, scallops, or lobster to elevate the dish for a special occasion.

How to Store

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the mayonnaise-based dressing.

FAQs

1. What is imitation crab meat made of?
   Imitation crab, or surimi, is made from finely ground white fish (such as pollock) mixed with other ingredients to mimic the texture and flavor of real crab.
2. Can I use real crab meat instead?
   Yes, substitute with fresh or canned crab meat for a more luxurious version.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when made a day in advance, as the flavors have more time to meld.

Crab Seafood Salad

A creamy and refreshing seafood salad with imitation crab, celery, and a tangy dill dressing, perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.25 pounds imitation crab meat
• 1 small onion finely diced
• ½ cup chopped celery
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Equipment

• mixing bowl
• whisk
• knife
• measuring cups

Method

 

1. Chop imitation crab, onion, and celery into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, paprika, salt, dill, and black pepper.
3. Add the crab, onion, and celery to the bowl and gently mix until evenly coated.
4. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
5. Serve cold as a salad, sandwich filling, or in lettuce wraps.

Notes

• Use fresh or canned crab for an upgraded version.
• Add extra vegetables or seafood for variety.