Creamy, Fresh & Perfectly Coastal
When you’re craving something cool, refreshing, and packed with flavor, few dishes hit the spot like a well-made Crab Salad, also known as Seafood Salad. This timeless recipe combines tender crab meat, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing for a dish that feels both light and indulgent.
Perfect for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or elegant appetizers, crab salad brings coastal comfort straight to your kitchen—no ocean breeze required.
Why You’ll Love This Crab Salad
- Light yet satisfying: Creamy without being heavy
- Quick & easy: Ready in minutes with simple ingredients
- Versatile: Serve it chilled in sandwiches, wraps, or on its own
- Budget-friendly: Works beautifully with imitation crab or real lump crab meat
This is the kind of recipe that tastes even better after chilling and can be adapted to whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb imitation crab meat or lump crab meat, chopped
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion or green onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Diced cucumber
- Chopped hard-boiled egg
- Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood kick
How to Make Crab Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the crab meat into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the celery and onion to ensure even crunch in every bite.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), mustard, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine & Chill
Gently fold the crab, celery, and onion into the dressing until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Serve chilled and enjoy immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Delicious Ways to Serve Crab Salad
- Sandwiches or Croissants: A seafood twist on classic chicken salad
- Lettuce Cups or Avocado Boats: Light, low-carb, and elegant
- Pasta Salad: Toss with cooked, cooled rotini or shells
- Appetizer Style: Serve with crackers or cucumber slices
Tips for the Best Crab Salad
- Use what you have: Imitation crab is affordable and flavorful; real lump crab adds luxury
- Chill for flavor: Time in the fridge enhances taste and texture
- Keep it crisp: Finely diced fresh vegetables provide the perfect crunch
A Coastal Classic Made Simple
Crab Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Creamy, cool, and full of bright seafood flavor, this dish works just as well for casual lunches as it does for entertaining guests.
Whether you’re craving something fresh, planning a potluck favorite, or looking for a no-fuss seafood recipe, this crab salad delivers every time.
