A delightful fusion of fresh crab meat, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing, Elegant Crab Salad Cups are a perfect choice for serving at parties, luncheons, or as an impressive appetizer for special occasions.
This recipe combines luxurious seafood flavors with a refreshing crunch, all presented in a visually appealing edible cup. The balance of textures, combined with a subtle tangy-sweet dressing, ensures every bite is satisfying.
The presentation in individual cups not only adds charm but also makes them easy to serve and enjoy without the mess of traditional salads. Whether you are hosting a fancy dinner or a casual get-together, this dish will impress your guests while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the bright and vibrant taste, and with just a few steps, you can create a dish that feels like fine dining at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh crab meat, cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chives, finely chopped
- 12 lettuce leaves or mini tart shells for cups
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, paprika, black pepper, and sea salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring the dressing is well-emulsified for a balanced flavor.
- Add the shredded crab meat to the bowl and gently fold it into the dressing, being careful not to break up the delicate pieces of crab. This helps retain the seafood’s texture while evenly coating it in the creamy mixture.
- Stir in the celery, red bell pepper, cucumber, parsley, and chives, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed for a refreshing crunch in every bite. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed, depending on your preference for tanginess or savoriness.
- If using lettuce leaves, wash and pat them dry completely to avoid sogginess. Place one leaf into each serving cup or arrange them on a platter for a buffet-style presentation. If using mini tart shells, ensure they are crisp and ready for filling.
- Spoon the crab salad mixture generously into each lettuce leaf or tart shell, slightly mounding the top for an elegant look. Garnish with a light sprinkle of paprika or extra chopped parsley for added color and appeal.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for up to two hours before serving if preparing ahead of time.
- These Elegant Crab Salad Cups pair beautifully with sparkling drinks, light wines, or iced tea, making them an adaptable choice for various occasions. By keeping the flavors simple and letting the quality of the crab shine, this recipe delivers both sophistication and taste in a bite-sized, memorable form.