Classic Crab Salad – A Refreshing and Flavorful Dish
This crab salad is a light, refreshing, and delicious dish perfect for summer gatherings, sandwiches, or as a topping for crackers. Made with lump crab meat, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s packed with flavors that blend beautifully. Whether served chilled as an appetizer or as a main course, this salad is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb lump crab meat or imitation crab
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier option
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Vegetables & Add-ins:
- ½ cup celery finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion finely diced
- ¼ cup red bell pepper finely diced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp fresh dill optional
- 1 tsp capers optional, for a briny flavor
- For Serving Optional:
- Lettuce leaves
- Crackers or crostini
- Toasted bread for sandwiches
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Drain any excess liquid from the crab meat and pat it dry with a paper towel. If using imitation crab, chop it into small bite-sized pieces.
- Finely dice the celery, red onion, and bell pepper. Chop the parsley and dill if using.
- Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Combine Everything
- Add the crab meat and chopped vegetables to the dressing mixture. Gently fold everything together until well combined, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
- Step 4: Chill & Serve
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled over lettuce, with crackers, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes
Fresh crab meat is the best option for flavor, but imitation crab works well as a budget-friendly alternative.
Adjust seasoning to taste; add more lemon juice for acidity or more Old Bay seasoning for extra spice.
If serving in sandwiches, use brioche buns, croissants, or sourdough bread for a gourmet touch.
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, but avoid freezing as the texture changes.
Adjust seasoning to taste; add more lemon juice for acidity or more Old Bay seasoning for extra spice.
If serving in sandwiches, use brioche buns, croissants, or sourdough bread for a gourmet touch.
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, but avoid freezing as the texture changes.