.png){kind=small}
Creamy Seafood Salad with Imitation Crab – Fresh, Light & Full of Flavor
This Creamy Seafood Salad with Imitation Crab is a refreshing, satisfying dish that comes together in minutes and delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. It’s cool, creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with crunchy vegetables and tender crab-style seafood. Whether you’re making lunch, preparing a light dinner, or planning a party spread, this salad is always a winning choice.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Salad
This salad is quick, affordable, and full of creamy goodness. You don’t need to cook anything, which makes it perfect for hot days or busy schedules. It’s light but still filling, making it great for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) imitation crab meat, chopped or shredded
- 1 cup (240 g) mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup (75 g) finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup (40 g) finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by chopping or shredding the imitation crab into bite-size pieces. Place it into a large mixing bowl.
Add the chopped celery, red onion, and fresh herbs to the bowl. These ingredients bring crunch and freshness to the salad.
In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and sugar (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
Pour the dressing over the crab and vegetables. Gently fold everything together until well coated. Be careful not to mash the crab.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice for brightness or a pinch more salt for balance.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Serving Ideas
This creamy seafood salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it on toasted bread as a sandwich, inside pita pockets, or wrapped in tortillas. It’s also delicious spooned onto crackers or cucumber slices for a light appetizer.
For a low-carb option, serve it in lettuce cups or over a bed of mixed greens. It works perfectly as a picnic dish or party platter.
Flavor Variations
You can customize this salad in many ways. Add sweet corn for extra sweetness, diced avocado for creaminess, or a little hot sauce for heat. Chopped pickles or capers also bring a nice tangy twist.
If you want more protein, mix in small cooked shrimp or even a little tuna. The creamy base pairs well with many seafood options.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always keep it chilled and stir before serving again.
This salad is not suitable for freezing, as the creamy dressing will separate and lose its smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Seafood Salad with Imitation Crab is a simple, refreshing, and delicious dish that fits any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor and texture.
Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s the kind of recipe that never fails to impress.