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Easy Crab Salad

Easy Crab Salad

This Easy Crab Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and simple dish perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or impressive appetizers. Made with tender crab meat, crisp celery, green onions, and a zesty lemon-dijon dressing, it offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes while being light yet satisfying. Ready in under 20 minutes, this versatile and elegant salad can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, or paired with various sides for a gourmet experience with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh lump or claw crab meat
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather fresh crab meat, wash and finely chop the celery and green onions, and finely chop the fresh dill or parsley. Ensure the crab is of the best quality for optimal flavor and texture.
  2. Combine the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
  3. Mix Salad Components: Gently fold the crab meat and chopped celery and green onions into the dressing. Mix lightly to keep the crab lumps intact and maintain a fluffy salad texture.
  4. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the finely chopped dill or parsley to add freshness and vibrant color to the salad.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Choose quality fresh lump or claw crab meat; avoid imitation crab for authentic flavor.
  • Gently fold ingredients to prevent breaking up the crab meat; this keeps the salad light and airy.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually by tasting and adding salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  • Use fresh dill or parsley rather than dried herbs for best flavor.
  • Refrigerate the salad before serving to enhance flavor blending and texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; avoid freezing.
  • If desired, try variations like diced avocado, a spicy kick with cayenne or hot sauce, or an Asian twist with soy sauce or sesame oil added to the mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: crab salad, easy crab salad, seafood salad, light salad, appetizer, quick lunch, low calorie, gluten free