Creamy Seafood Crab Salad
Rich, Tangy, and Perfect for Sandwiches or Appetizers
A creamy seafood crab salad is a versatile, elegant dish perfect for luncheons, sandwiches, crackers, or as a light meal. Combining delicate crab meat with a creamy dressing, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs, this salad balances richness and freshness. It’s quick to prepare yet impressive in flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Salad
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1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells (approx. 150 g)
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½ cup cooked shrimp, chopped (optional, about 100 g)
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¼ cup celery, finely diced
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¼ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
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2 green onions, sliced thin
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Creamy Dressing
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (or paprika)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
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Lemon wedges
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Fresh dill or chives
Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowl
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Spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Seafood (5 minutes)
If using cooked shrimp, chop into bite-sized pieces. Gently flake the crab meat with a fork, removing any shell fragments.
2. Mix the Vegetables (2–3 minutes)
In a large mixing bowl, combine diced celery, red bell pepper, green onions, and parsley. These add crunch and freshness to the creamy salad.
3. Make the Dressing (2–3 minutes)
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing (3 minutes)
Gently fold the crab meat and optional shrimp into the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the top and stir carefully to coat evenly without breaking up the seafood.
5. Chill (30–60 minutes)
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling enhances the flavors and allows the salad to firm up slightly.
6. Serve (2 minutes)
Serve the creamy crab salad on:
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Fresh sandwich bread or croissants
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Crackers or toasted baguette slices
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A bed of crisp lettuce for a light meal
Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Crab Salad
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Use lump crab meat for a premium texture
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Fold gently to keep crab pieces intact
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Adjust mayonnaise for creaminess—less for a lighter salad
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Add a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick
Storage
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
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Do not freeze; the texture of mayonnaise-based salads may change
Serving Ideas
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As a starter or appetizer for dinner parties
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In sandwiches or wraps for lunch
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On top of green salads for a protein boost
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Paired with chips or crudités
Final Thoughts
Creamy Seafood Crab Salad is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that highlights the delicate sweetness of crab meat. With crisp vegetables, flavorful dressing, and optional shrimp, it’s versatile, elegant, and perfect for casual or special occasions.