The Ultimate Crab Salad Recipe – Fresh, Creamy & Easy to Make
Enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and freshness with The Ultimate Crab Salad Recipe! Made with tender crab meat, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing, this salad is light, refreshing, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or as a side dish for seafood dinners, it comes together in minutes and tastes even better chilled. Serve on its own, with crackers, or stuffed into croissants for an elegant touch!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring spoons/cups
- Spoon or spatula for folding
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lump crab meat (fresh, frozen, or imitation)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional add-ins: diced cucumber, avocado, mango, or capers
Instructions
- Prepare Crab: Drain crab meat well, pat dry with paper towels, and gently flake into bite-sized pieces.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in celery, onion, and herbs for crunch and freshness.
- Combine: Gently fold in the crab meat with a spatula, keeping chunks intact.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled on its own, in lettuce cups, with crackers, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes
- Fresh vs. Imitation: Fresh crab offers the best flavor but imitation crab is affordable and widely available.
- Lighter Option: Swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier, protein-rich version.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne, sriracha, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: Can be made up to 1 day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Do not freeze.