Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crab Salad is not only quick and simple to prepare but also offers a delicious balance of flavors. The imitation crab meat adds a mild sweetness, while the crunchy celery and onion provide texture. The fresh dill and zesty lemon juice bring a hint of brightness, and the mayonnaise ties it all together with a creamy finish. Whether served in a sandwich, on a bed of lettuce, or as a stand-alone dish, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound imitation crab meat, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, dill, and lemon juice.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with mayonnaise.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or as a dip.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Chilling time: 1 hour
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover crab salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need for reheating. Simply take it out of the refrigerator and enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab?
Yes, you can use real crab meat for a more authentic flavor. Just be sure to shred it into small pieces.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the label on the mayonnaise to ensure it's gluten-free.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this crab salad actually tastes even better after being chilled for a few hours, so it’s perfect for preparing in advance.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture.
5. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise, giving the salad a tangy flavor.
6. How long can I store the crab salad?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best when eaten fresh.
7. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the mayonnaise and vegetables may not hold up well after being frozen and thawed.
8. Can I make this without dill?
If you're not a fan of dill, you can substitute it with parsley, chives, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
9. Is this crab salad healthy?
While this crab salad is a tasty treat, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its mayonnaise content. You can make it lighter by using a reduced-fat mayo or Greek yogurt.
10. Can I serve this as a main dish?
Yes, this crab salad can serve as a light main dish, especially when paired with some bread, crackers, or served in a sandwich.
Conclusion
Crab Salad is an easy-to-make, versatile dish that is perfect for almost any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying salad that's sure to impress your guests or make a delicious quick meal. Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or as a refreshing side to complement your main dish.
Crab Salad (Seafood Salad)
This Crab Salad (Seafood Salad) is a light and refreshing dish featuring tender shredded imitation crab meat, creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and tangy lemon. It’s perfect for a quick appetizer, side dish, or light meal, and is ideal for picnics, gatherings, or a summer day. Enjoy this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines fresh ingredients for a balanced flavor and delightful texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: No-cook, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound imitation crab meat, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, dill, and lemon juice.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with mayonnaise.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or as a dip.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- To add extra flavor and texture, consider adding bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better after being chilled for a few hours.
