Description
This creamy and flavorful Crab Seafood Salad is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories with every bite. Made with imitation crab, crunchy celery, aromatic shallots, and a well-balanced mayo-based dressing, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch, potluck, or picnic. Whether you serve it on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Who is this Recipe For?
This Crab Salad is perfect for:
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Busy families needing a fast, no-cook meal
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Seafood lovers looking for a light and refreshing dish
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Home cooks who appreciate budget-friendly ingredients
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Anyone who enjoys classic, comforting flavors
If you enjoy dishes like tuna salad or chicken salad, this seafood twist will be right up your alley.
Why It’s Great
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Ready in Minutes: Just mix, chill, and serve!
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Budget-Friendly: Imitation crab is affordable and delicious.
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Versatile: Serve it as a salad, sandwich filling, or wrap.
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Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy for several days.
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Packed with Flavor: Dill, paprika, and shallots add the perfect zing.
Ingredients
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1 lb imitation crab meat (also called krab meat), shredded or chopped
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½ cup celery, finely minced
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1 shallot, minced (or substitute with red onion)
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½ cup mayonnaise
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½ teaspoon dried dill
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½ teaspoon paprika
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¼ teaspoon kosher salt
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¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
How to Make Crab Seafood Salad
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the imitation crab, celery, shallot, mayonnaise, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled as a salad, sandwich filling, or topping for crackers and greens.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowl
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Cutting board
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Knife for chopping celery and shallots
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Measuring spoons and cups
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Mixing spoon or spatula
Storage
Store the prepared crab salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to refresh the texture. This dish is not freezer-friendly due to the mayonnaise base.
FAQ
Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation?
Yes! Real lump crab meat can be used for a more authentic flavor, but imitation crab is more cost-effective and still delicious.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use plain Greek yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and sour cream for a lighter version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This recipe is ideal for meal prep—just store in the fridge and serve when ready.
What else can I add to this salad?
Feel free to mix in diced cucumber, chopped boiled egg, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Conclusion
This Classic Crab Seafood Salad is the definition of comfort food made simple. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying dish that works for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. Whether you serve it on crackers, in a sandwich, or over a crisp salad, this recipe is a keeper. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!