Classic Crab Salad Recipe

This classic crab salad is a refreshing and creamy dish perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or enjoying on its own. It features sweet crab meat (or imitation crab), crisp celery, and a tangy dressing.  

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound crab meat (lump crab meat or imitation crab, flaked)  
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped  
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped red onion or green onion

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crab: If using lump crab meat, gently pick through it to remove any shell pieces. If using imitation crab, flake it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, dill, and red onion or green onion (if using).
  3. Add Crab: Gently fold the crab meat into the mayonnaise mixture, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
  4. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.  
  6. Serve: Serve the crab salad on its own, in sandwiches, on crackers, or as a topping for salads.

Tips and Variations:

  • Fresh Herbs: Use other fresh herbs like parsley or chives instead of or in addition to dill.
  • Spice: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
  • Sweetness: Add a touch of sweetness with a teaspoon of sugar or honey.
  • Texture: Add some crunch with finely chopped bell peppers or water chestnuts.
  • Avocado: For a richer and creamier version, add diced avocado.
  • Greek Yogurt: For a lighter version, substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Classic Crab Salad!

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