Creamy Crab Salad (Seafood Salad) – A Refreshing Favorite with Coastal Flair
Introduction
This Creamy Crab Salad—also known as seafood salad—is a chilled, creamy, flavor-packed dish that brings coastal vibes right to your kitchen. Whether you’re using real crab or imitation crab, this recipe is quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable. Serve it with crackers, in a sandwich, or on a bed of greens—it never disappoints.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this salad because it checks all the boxes: it’s creamy without being heavy, zesty thanks to lemon and Dijon, and crunchy with bits of celery and onion. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a snack, a light lunch, or even a no-cook dinner. Bonus? It gets even better after a chill in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1 lb imitation crab meat (or real crab), shredded 🦀
- ½ cup mayonnaise 🥄
- ¼ cup sour cream 🍶
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard 🌟
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped 🥬
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning 🌶️
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
Optional Add-Ins and Swaps
- Avocado: Diced for added creaminess.
- Fresh Herbs: Dill or parsley brighten up the flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: Swap for sour cream for a tangy, lighter option.
- Real Crab: Use lump crab for a luxurious touch.
How to Make Creamy Crab Salad
1. Prep the Crab
Shred or chop crab meat into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl.
2. Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth.
3. Mix It All Together
Add chopped celery and red onion to the crab, then pour the dressing over. Gently fold until well combined.
4. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled over greens, on toast, with crackers, or in lettuce wraps.
Tips for Success
- Chop Ingredients Finely: For better texture and even flavor distribution.
- Let It Chill: This salad tastes even better after resting in the fridge.
- Balance the Creaminess: Adjust mayo and sour cream to your liking.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This crab salad is a breeze to plate and pairs beautifully with other warm-weather dishes:
- Scoop onto a croissant or brioche roll for a deluxe sandwich
- Pair with This Blueberry Lemonade for a refreshing sip
- Serve alongside This Beer Cheese Dip for a snack-heavy spread
- Add to a picnic basket next to This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- Or go lighter with This Tangy Chicken Salad (No Mayo)
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s not freezer-friendly, but it’s so tasty, leftovers rarely last that long!
Final Thoughts
This Crab Salad (Seafood Salad) recipe is simple, satisfying, and flexible. With its creamy texture, light crunch, and bold flavor, it’s a must-have for summer spreads, quick lunches, or any time you’re craving a taste of the sea.
Give it a try and let us know how you served it! Tag @chefmaniac and show off your delicious spins on this seafood classic.
