Crab Salad, also known as Seafood Salad, is a versatile and delectable dish that brings the fresh, oceanic flavors of crab to your table. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or party appetizer, this dish combines succulent crab meat with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. Whether served on its own, as a filling for sandwiches, or as a topping for crackers, this recipe is sure to impress. Here’s how to prepare this simple yet flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or imitation crab meat, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon hot sauce for added spice
- Optional: Mixed greens or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the crab meat. If using fresh crab, ensure all shells are removed and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. For imitation crab, cut it into small chunks.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if desired.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the crab mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad until all ingredients are well coated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the crab’s texture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Crab Salad chilled. It can be enjoyed on its own, over a bed of mixed greens, or as a topping for crackers or toasted bread. You can also use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for an appealing presentation.
This delightful Crab Salad offers a balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements, making it an instant favorite for seafood lovers. It’s quick to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a simple family meal, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser!